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Menorca is the most typically Mediterranean of all the Balearic Islands, with its untamed beaches surrounded by pine forests and cliffs, and its picturesque inland towns, where traditional farming culture is preserved. Declared as a Biosphere Reserve, the sea beds are perfect for scuba diving, thanks to the pure shallow waters and the rich biodiversity. Below are our suggestions of what not to miss on your trip to Menorca.
Ciutadella, the westernmost city on the island, was for centuries the center of political, economic and religious power. As the place of residence of nobles and clergy, the city contains many stately homes and religious buildings that remain today. Its historical center, made up of small alleyways of Arab and medieval origin, is protected as a Place of Cultural Interest. Among its monumental buildings stand out two from the 17th century: Can Saura, which houses the Municipal Museum of Ciutadella, and Casa Olivar, with stunning period decoration. Another must-see is the church of Santa María, established as a cathedral in 1795, with Catalonian gothic style.
As a Mediterranean island, Menorca has more than 100 coves and beaches. For that reason, you need a selection of the best beaches to visit. In the north are Playa de Cavallería, Cala Pilarand, Cala Pregonda and Cala Algaraiens. In the south are the most visited beaches, including: Cala Macarella and Macarelleta, Cala Galdana and Cala En Turqueta.
Menorca, with its reefs, caves and clean, see-through waters, is paradise for scuba divers. The island has the largest marine reserve in the Mediterranean and an endless number of diving centers for you to get started or keep advancing in this sport. As far as the best locations go, Isla del Aire, in Punta Prima, or Llosa des Patró Pere, close to Cavalleria, are the favorites for diving. However, it all depends on taste. The coast of Sant Luís, for example, is perfect for exploring caves.
Menorca has its own “Camino de Santiago,” the Camí de Cavalls or “path of horses.” It is a 185-km (115-mile) route that circles the island and is split into 20 legs. Its name comes from the time when the path was traveled on horseback as a form of patrol. If you like to combine sports with vacation, or simply like hiking, be sure to do one of the legs, you will get the best views.
Admiring the impressive Menorcan coast is even more special aboard a boat, catamaran or sailboat. It is the perfect option for taking in the island’s beauty, cruising down its coastline and anchoring in its idyllic coves. There are different options, including full day outings circling the island or excursions lasting several days to have the experiences of swimming at sunrise or eating dinner on the deck under the stars. You can also choose the vessel you prefer and request the service of a skipper, who will take care of everything and guide you to the most exclusive spots on the island.
Watching the sunset in Menorca is a must! There are different places to enjoy it to the fullest. We recommend the views from the Punta Nati lighthouse, but if you feel like having a drink while you admire it, Cova d’en Xoroi is always a good option.
You don’t have to dive to the depths of the Mediterranean to admire the immense marine diversity inhabiting the coasts of Menorca. Snorkeling, an activity accessible to all, is a good option for exploring the Menorcan coast.
Kayaking is another fun and simple sport to check out the Menorcan coast on your own, in a group or as a couple. If you have never tried it before, we recommend doing it on a day that the sea is calm. For a route, we suggest the impressive cliffs in the north or the gentle hillsides of Favaritx.
Menorca has 7 lighthouses dotting the island. Visiting them all may be a good option for covering and getting to know the island well. Clockwise, the seven lighthouses are: Punta Nati, Cavalleria, Favàritx, Mahón, Isla del Aire, Artrutx and Ciutadella.
Beyond its sublime beaches, the Menorcan inland tucks away wonderful villages where you can still see the traditions of Balearic farmland. Specifically, in the town of Binissuès you can have an authentic rural experience discovering Menorcan traditions. Every day, this living museum recreates an average day in the life of a farmer from the previous century. You will have the opportunity to help bake the bread, make a piece of artisanal cheese, get water from the waterwheel or take care of the animals. This is a unique visit, ideal to share with the little ones in your family.
La Isla del Rey is full of history and beauty. This small island is located in the port of Mahon and houses an old, disused naval hospital, built during British possession, and a beautiful paleochristian Basilica, whose delicate mosaics are kept in the Museum of Menorca. Still, the island has a lot more to offer. In 2021, the prestigious Swiss gallery Hauser & Wirth chose this location to open an art center with an ambitious cultural program. The exhibition venue is made up of eight galleries and an outdoor tour with sculptures by Martin Creed, Stefan Brüggemann, Hans Josephsohn, Paul McCarthy and Laila Estruch. Its gardens also include local plant varieties and it has a restaurant that serves local, seasonal products.