We are hitting the road this winter, checking out those hidden and largely unexplored Mallorca SUP routes! Welcome to “Adventures with Woody … Part One.
🌊 Paddle Boarding in Betlem, Mallorca — Gliding Through Times Gone By
This week, Team Mallorca SUP took to the road to fulfil a paddle boarding dream, that’s been on my wish list for as long as I’ve lived on this island — six amazing years.
Betlem was calling, and it didn’t disappoint. As we wound our way toward the crystal-clear waters, it felt as if time itself had slowed — transporting us to a place of untouched natural beauty, where mountains meet the sea and silence hums softly in the air.
Let me tell you the story…
☀️ Morning Glides In Paradise
There’s a place on Mallorca’s northeast coast where the road ends and the sea begins — a place called Betlem. Here, the mountains of the Serres de Llevant tumble down toward the turquoise water, and time seems to have stood still.
It’s not the kind of destination with beach bars or crowds; instead, Betlem offers something much rarer — peace, clarity, and the perfect water for a paddle board.
🏄♀️ Why Betlem Is a Hidden Gem for SUP
Betlem sits at the far end of the MA-3331 road, just beyond Colònia de Sant Pere, and feels a world away from the busy resorts of Mallorca. The coastline here is raw and quiet — small coves, rocky shelves, and glass-clear shallows – perfect for exploring by paddle board. It’s not a place that features on mainstream travel guides and blogs.
In fact I discovered this beautiful corner of the island quite by chance, whilst watching “Gent de la Mar” – translated as “Sea People”. This TV program is on IB3 (the public broadcaster of the Balearic Islands) and is dedicated to stories of the sea, especially those rooted in local maritime traditions, fishing, coastal life, and the human connections to the Mediterranean.
🌿 Paddle Routes to Try
1️⃣ Betlem to Es Caló — 6 km round trip
Launch near Casablanca Restaurant and paddle east. The coastline becomes rugged and remote, cliffs streaked with pine and ochre stone.
Es Caló is a calm natural inlet — perfect for a swim and a rest before paddling back.
2️⃣ Betlem to Sa Cova Gran — 11 km (advanced)
A wilder route through the Natural Park of Llevant, with high limestone cliffs and sea caves. Bring plenty of water and check wind forecasts — it’s remote and for confident paddlers.
3️⃣ Betlem Bay Loop — Beginner-friendly
Stay within the small bay for a relaxed paddle. Ideal for practice sessions, photos, or a sunset glide when the sea glows soft pink and gold.
🧭 Tips for a Perfect Paddle Day
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🌅 Go early: calm water and soft light.
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💧 Bring a dry bag & water: there are no beach cafés nearby.
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🦺 Wear a leash and if you aren’t a confident paddle boarder a buoyancy aid. Additionally always take a phone with you for communication in an emergency and tell someone when and wear you are going, if you are paddling alone: safety first, even on still days.
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🌱 Respect nature: Betlem borders the Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant — if you stop off at any of the coves for a picnic or refreshments – lave with everything that you came with. And if you happen to see rubbish on the beach, or plastics floating on the water, take that with you too. In paddle boarding “Not my rubbish – not my problem” doesn’t (or shouldn’t) exist.
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🌬️ Check the wind: Although you are in the most part sheltered here, the golden rule remains the same. Never paddle in off shore winds. And especially the northerly “tramuntana” winds can roughen the sea quickly. Also be aware, that in the heat of summer months the “Embat” or thermal winds as we call them, can be very strong and dont feature on weather apps.
💫 The Stillness That Stays With You
We rounded off our adventure by heading to the wonderful Casablanca Restaurant, perched just above the sea. It was the perfect spot to pause — to sip something cool, breathe in the sea air, and let the morning’s paddle drift into memory. Casablanca felt less like a restaurant and more like a front-row seat to the beauty of Betlem itself.
In summary – When you return to shore, your legs might tremble a little — from balance, from joy, from the quiet. Betlem doesn’t just offer a good paddle; it offers a feeling — that rare island silence where sky and water merge.
Bring your board, rise early, and let Betlem show you what calm really means. 💙
Meet The Team
Hanna aka https://www.instagram.com/hanna_tramuntana/
Miguel Angel aka https://www.instagram.com/miguelangel_supdoctor/
Toni aka https://www.instagram.com/vila4362/
📌 Quick Guide
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Betlem, Municipality of Artà, Mallorca |
| Best Time | Early morning or sunset |
| Routes | Betlem → Es Caló (6 km), Betlem → Sa Cova Gran (11 km) |
| Skill Level | All levels (short route) / Intermediate+ (long route) |
| Nearby | Ermita de Betlem, Colònia de Sant Pere, Parc Natural de Llevant |
| Top Tip | Head to the beautiful “Casa Blanca” Restaurant. It’s the perfect end to a perfect paddle |
Watch the reel from our adventure right here!
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