Cala Pudent, golden sand beach in Es Mercadal, Menorca, Spain

Cala Pudent is a beach of golden sand in Es Mercadal, about 200 metres long and 50 metres wide, backed by low limestone rock. The cove opens to the north-east and the seabed slopes gently, so the water stays shallow close to the shore and deepens further out.

Cala Pudent lies on the north coast of Menorca, in the municipality of Es Mercadal, on the route of the Camí de Cavalls, the historic coastal path that circles the island. The path was laid out to link the island's watchtowers and coastal defences, and it still passes above the cove, connecting it on foot with Arenal de Son Saura and the surrounding estates.

Cala Pudent lies on the Camí de Cavalls, the old horse path circling Menorca that was restored and reopened in 2010. Walkers on the stage between Son Saura and Cala en Turqueta pass the cove, and the beach is also reached by boat from nearby coves.

Reaching this beach requires a walk of about 25 minutes along a coastal path from nearby Arenal de Son Saura. Wear sturdy shoes for the path and check weather conditions before heading out, as the coastal route can be exposed to wind.

Posidonia oceanica meadows cover the seabed off Cala Pudent, and their dead leaves wash ashore in spring as brown fibrous balls that bathers often mistake for algae. The meadows shelter fish and keep the sand clear of sediment. Posidonia is a flowering plant, not a seaweed, and grows only in the Mediterranean.