With glorious beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, Menorca is among the most popular Balearic Islands. You’re never more than a few miles from the sea, so there are no shortage of beautiful seaside towns in Menorca to explore. Here are some ideas for your trip.
Mahon
Many people who visit Menorca start in Mahon, the island’s capital, an established and attractive center for tourism. Set high on hills with a glorious view over the sea, it’s also a good place to look for accommodation. Any list of what to see in Menorca would include the remarkable Teatre Principal de Maó opera house, as well as the city’s stately Georgian houses. As on much of the island, tall pine trees provide welcome shelter from the hot Mediterranean sun.
Further afield
Hiring a car and driving around Menorca opens up the island and lets you take things at your own pace. For stunning medieval architecture and intriguing winding lanes to explore, Ciutadella in the west is a must; don’t miss the imposing Cathedral of Santa Maria with its enormous marble altar, as well as the attractive harbour area where yachts bob at anchor. Further south you’ll find Cala En Porter, a villa-strewn cliff village which boasts some of the liveliest bars and restaurants of anywhere on the island.
Sand and waters
Menorca is also known for the wonderful turquoise waters of its beaches. Places as Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Mitjaneta are a sample of the island’s beauty. Fine sand, maritime pines and crystalline water are the perfect match to enjoy your visit to the easternmost island of the Balearic archipelago. If you want to have a beautiful view of Menorca, you can reach El Toro, the island’s highest hill.
Where to stay in Menorca
A popular option is the Catalonia Mirador des Port hotel, just ten minutes’ walk from the center and offering a laid-back yet comfortable experience with Wi-fi, satellite TV and restaurant and bar.
Getting active
The beautiful seaside towns of Menorca inspire many visitors to do more than simply laze on the beach with a cool drink, tempting as it might be. Head to the north coast and you’ll discover Fornells, one of the island’s most popular watersports centers. Its deep, sheltered bay provides protection from the Med’s sometimes high waves and makes the village a great place to try your hand at windsurfing or kayaking. Alternatively, get out your snorkel for a stunning underwater view of the fish that swim in these clear waters.
Eating and drinking
When you visit Menorca, you’ll quickly discover the island has a cuisine all its own. Although mainland Spanish dishes are everywhere – you won’t struggle to find a tapas bar in any cosy harbour – there’s an older, distinctively local culinary tradition that’s well worth seeking out. Seafood is at the heart of Menorcan cooking, with crab, squid and clam all popular. If you like meat, the speciality of Menorca is the goat.
If you enjoyed this article about beautiful seaside towns in Menorca, do not miss this post about the six best places to stay in Menorca.
