Sa Pedrera de Cala d'Hort: Ibiza's "Atlantis"

Sa Pedrera de Cala d'Hort is an old sandstone quarry at the foot of the cliffs on Ibiza's southwest coast, below Torre des Savinar and facing Es Vedrà. Stone was cut here for centuries, and the square-cut blocks, terraces and channels left behind look almost like the ruins of a sunken city. That is how it earned its nickname, Atlantis.

From the 1960s and 70s, hippies and travellers made the difficult trip down, and some left carvings and paintings in the rock, adding to the site's slightly mystical reputation. Natural rock pools fill with seawater between the stone shelves, making it a strange and beautiful place to spend a few hours.

The Hike Down

Getting to Atlantis is the hard part. The trail starts near Torre des Savinar and drops steeply down the cliff face on loose rock and narrow paths, with some sections where you need to use your hands. It is not suitable for young children, anyone with mobility problems or anyone without proper footwear. The climb back up in the heat is harder than the way down.

Protecting the Site

Sa Pedrera is within a protected natural area. Leave the rocks, carvings and fossils as you find them, take all rubbish away with you, and do not build stone towers or remove stones as souvenirs.

Tips for Visiting

• Go early in the morning. There is no shade on the trail and it becomes dangerously hot in summer.
• Wear trainers or hiking shoes, never flip-flops.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks. There are no facilities at all.
• Avoid the trail in wet weather or high winds, when the rock is slippery.
• Only swim in the pools and sea when the water is calm.

FAQ

Why is it called Atlantis?

The geometric blocks and terraces left by centuries of quarrying look like the ruins of a lost city under the sea, which gave the site its nickname.

Is the Atlantis hike difficult?

Yes. It is short but steep, with loose rock and some scrambling. Allow plenty of time, go when it is cool and only attempt it if you are comfortable on rough terrain.