The northernmost of the Balearic islands, Menorca is the most underrated. Oft overlooked in favour of bigger party locales like Ibiza and Mallorca, Menorca’s appeal is its relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, unassuming beauty, and relatively unspoilt beaches.
Two main towns flank either side of the island, easily accessible from one another in less than an hour. The Ciutadella old town is a charming stroll of crumbling buildings down narrow cobbled streets. A sunny afternoon casts a warm and romantic golden glow across all the pleasing details; an ornate Spanish door here, the odd Gothic church there.
Mahón – the island’s capital – is a delightful port town, perched high up steep steps overlooking the harbour. It’s filled with modern amenities, like stylish boutiques and plenty of tapas bars. While away the days under a protective umbrella in one of the areas many plazas, people watching while sipping sangria.
Menorca’s beaches are otherworldly, and with over 70 beaches across 200km of coastline, they’re not hard to come by.
Turquoise waters are cupped by rocky coves, fringed by pine trees dotting the coast. The Camí de Cavalls is a dirt path that encircles the entire island, providing access to many of the hidden coves and hard to come by beaches.
Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta, which can be reached on foot from Cala Galdana, are well-worth a visit. The tranquil turquoise waters of Cala Turqueta is a stunning reward for a long dusty walk in the hot sun. Other can’t miss beaches? Cala Mitjana, Cala en Porter, and Cala Binidalí (but get there early!).
A surprising gastronomic paradise, Menorcan cuisine is rich and varied, with plenty of fresh fish and meat-based meals to choose from. Traditional Spanish tapas are abundant, as are artisanal meats and cheese. Pa amb oli is practically a food group. The most pleasantly surprising thing is the affordability: €3-4 for a glass of Rioja? Sign me up.
If you go one place, make it Torralbenc. The Michelin starred restaurant, winery and hotel is a feast for the eyes as well as stomach, serving decadent small plates and interesting and varied wines. The serene property is the icing on the cake.
Must visits: Cova d’en Xoroi I Restaurant S’Amarador for harbourside drinks | Tapas Can Avelino | Contrabandu cocktail bar | La Rosquilla for breakfast
Though the island is small, a car is critical for getting around and reaching the hard-to-reach.
Casa Miranda is a fantastic option for affordable accommodations in Mahón. Situated in the heart, its an easy walk to the town’s main plazas, harbour and restaurants. The boutique hotel has a dreamy hidden pool perfect for cooling off, and each room comes with a expansive terrace. Ideal for sipping a glass of wine before dinner and listening to the live jazz floating up from the plaza most nights.
x
