A popular beach that has suffered from overtourism is still fighting for planning permission as tourists park dangerously to reach the cove.
Cala Varques is a cove in Majorca known for its crystal clear water and beautiful scenery. It is also home to a secluded beach with golden sand, perfect for spending the day sunbathing.
But the area has suffered from overtourism, and with no car park, it has led to some dangerous parking on roads nearby. The Manacor town hall had submitted plans to build a 32-vehicle car park that was initially sent to the Balearic Environment Commission for consideration in 2022.
It was hoped that the car park would be ready to go in summer 2023 but the project is yet to commence.
The town hall had put the car park in its 2024 regulatory plans, but with it doing the same in 2023, locals aren’t holding out for it to open this year.
According to local media reports, the town hall received approval from the environment commission but wanted to seek clarification on certain points. The Spanish government have said it is up to the town hall to outline the steps in completing the plan.
But it seems there are still some issues to resolve. The car park became a priority after parking chaos around Cala Varques meant people were illegally parking on both sides of the main road.
The secluded beach has a maximum capacity of 129 people, but often sees far more visitors than that come peak summer months.
The beautiful beach is surrounded by low cliffs and forestation, with shallow sea making it ideal for families with young children looking to paddle or swim in the ocean.
Due to its secluded location, there are no facilities at the cove, with parking deemed the first step in making the beach more safely accessible.
It is not clear when the car park will be completed, but there are fears it won’t be big enough come peak months as hundreds of tourists visit the area on a daily basis.
