17th July 2023
Menorca, or also known as the hidden gem of the Balearic Islands, is a small Spanish island that moves to its own beat. Unlike its sister islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, the island has implemented a sustainable tourism model which has allowed it to stay clear from large tourism companies and unappealing high-rise buildings and instead has maintained its status of being the ‘untouched gem’ of the Balearics. The island of Menorca is a place of great natural beauty and is an outstanding location for outdoor sports and activities- there are a few places in the Mediterranean that can offer quite as much in a small space! Here are 10 things you can enjoy in this beautiful island…
Menorca is by no means a party island but there are several amazing places to go and have a nice, relaxing drink. One, in particular, is the cave bar
2. Design your own mountain bike route:
Avid cyclers or not, we highly recommend hiring a bike for a day or two to explore the island in a different way. Menorca is great for cycling, choose from a selection of routes suitable for different levels of fitness and experiences. Discover the beautiful countryside with gently rolling hills or bike along the south or north coast and witness the variety of scenery. If you’ve not been to the island before, it’s best to ask where the best routes are suited for your level of experience.
The sea that surrounds Menorca is simply stunning and one of the best features about it is that it’s very tranquil, which means it’s a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The water is at a pleasant temperature which makes it even better for water sports. Arrange a day scuba diving and discover the abundant marine life or enjoy a leisurely afternoon appreciating the stunning coastline on a
If water sports aren’t your thing and you prefer activities on land, then why not go on a hike? The island covers an area of about seven hundred square kilometres, of which 42% is protected. Menorca is celebrating its 25th anniversary of UNESCO declaring the island a Biosphere Reserve. Hiking around Menorca is one of the main reason’s visitors come to Menorca and it’s no surprise why- there are over two hundred kilometres of coastline and a hundred or so idyllic beaches and coves to discover.
The island is connected by an extensive network of footpaths and country lanes, which are both inland or along the coast. These trails are suited to different levels of experience. The best-known trail is the "Cami de Cavalls”, a 185 km path that circles around all of Menorca’s coast. On these walk s you’ll discover hidden coves, wildlife and flora, lighthouses, ravines and streams. Every route you take is different and depending on where you are on the island, you’ll notice the geological wealth of the Menorcan countryside and the contrast between the south and north coast. Read more on our blog about walking here.
Menorca may only be small but there is a great selection of amazing restaurants dotted around the island. Menorca’s food scene has grown through the years and with it, the theme of sustainability, which is very much espoused across many restaurants around the island: chefs using local and seasonal produce, ensuring that by conserving the islands agricultural economy, they are also conserving the island. Some of the restaurants we recommend trying are: Pan y Vino, Passio Mediterrania, Taps' Can Avelino, Bodegas Binifadet and Barracuda (Read our interview with chefs at Barracuda here.)
For a different type of culinary experience, visit the fish market (Mercado de Pescados) in Mahon which has been operating since 1927. Discover the vibrant and buzzing atmosphere and try the different local produce including hams, cheeses and wine. There are also freshly made tapas and snacks which you can enjoy with a delicious glass of wine in one afternoon.
Menorca’s history has also played a big part of its gastronomy; traditional Menorcan recipes passed down generations are proof of the richness of local products and of how dishes have become part of today’s culture. Try some local Menorcan cheese or some
There’s nothing like going on holiday and buying some souvenirs but the ones you can find in Menorca are not your average souvenir. The arts and crafts tradition is thriving in Menorca and there are many of these that can be bought. One of the most popular is undoubtedly the "
Photo courtesy of Isla di Minorca
The tradition of horseback riding goes back centuries in Menorca, so far back to the 14th century. Horses are symbolic of Menorca culture and play an integral part of the Patron of Saints festivities that take place in towns around the island. During your stay, why not spend an unforgettable afternoon horseback riding through the countryside, through fields and along the top of cliffs; the feeling of freedom is indescribable, despite being with a guide! The treks are suitable for beginners as well as experienced riders. We recommend Menorca a Cavall
Menorca’s history goes as far back to late second century BC and there are over 1,500
The island’s main claim to fame is it’s alluring, crystal clear blue waters. You’ll find an array of beaches around the island, some suitable for families with many facilities whereas other beaches are more secluded, tucked away in completely unspoilt surroundings. Visiting the beaches on the north and south of the island, you’ll notice quite a contrast. In the northern side of the island, the coastline is carved by the prevailing northern Tramontana wind. The sand on the beaches is slightly coarser and darker in colour. The rock formations of dark slate and red clay are very striking. The south coast boasts stunning white sandy beaches with pine groves and the sea is turquoise blue. Enjoy a day or two exploring and lazing on the beaches around Menorca and spend some very deserved relaxation time.
Menorca is blessed with some of the most amazing sunsets, and if you’re willing to wake up before the sunrise, head to Es Castell, a town near the capital of Mahon, which sees the rising sun in the whole of Spain; sunrise seen from here is breath-taking. At the other end of the island, there are quite a few places suitable for sunset watching, like headlands, beaches, caves and lighthouses. Punta Nati is an amazing spot to watch a jaw-dropping sunset. Other places we recommend going to watch a sunset is in the Artrutx and Favaritx lighthouses, Son Bou beach, Cales Coves, or Sant Nicolau tower.
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