If we are looking for paradise beaches and wonderful sunny weather, Menorca is the perfect place. Each of the Spanish beaches is stunning, and at the same time they are so different with breathtaking cliffs and crystal clear water. Menorca is a real gem of the Balrears, although it is not visited as often as Majorca, it still attracts with its sunny climate. Menorca is a bit quieter but just as beautiful as the other Balrean islands.
Menorca is located southeast of Majorca, approximately 300 km from the Spanish coast and is the second largest island of the Balearic Islands. Its length does not exceed 50 km at its widest point. The island is divided into eight administrative regions and lies in the Mediterranean Sea.
Attractions
Cape Cavalleria Lighthouse
Cabo de Cavalleria is the northern tip of the island of Menorca. On the first day you can see the sun rising directly behind the cliffs and the lighthouse, which stands almost at the edge of the sea and the sea. The lighthouse was built into a cliff on the headland of Cabo de Cavalleria and in total stands at a height of 94 meters above the sea access, which makes the light emanating visible from the sea, even at a great distance. Light from a lighthouse flashing as a seconds symbol as night approaches.
Mola Fortress
La Mola Fortress is a former military complex located on a peninsula at the entrance to the port of Mahón. The fortress was built to strengthen the port’s protection against pirates. Construction of the facility began in 1849. The first stage was completed in 1875. In 1896, guns with a range of approximately 40 kilometers were installed in the fortress. The fort was never attacked. Visiting the restored defensive walls, barracks, armory and dungeons gives you the opportunity to travel back in time. The view of the Mediterranean Sea and the bay from the artillery promontory is simply wonderful.
Punta Nati Lighthouse
The Punta Nati lighthouse, built in a very dry and captivating landscape, is located on the north-western tip of the island, just 6 km from Ciutadella. Punta Nati is another example of the island’s diverse landscapes. The narrow road leading to the lighthouse has a cycle path and is surrounded on both sides by dry stone walls, locally known as “paret seca”. This is a great place to watch sunsets and stargaze at night. The lighthouse was built in 1912 and became available on September 1, 1913 in the place where it still stands today. It is 11.5 m high and a lighthouse visible from a distance of 26 nautical miles. The landscape surrounding Punta Nati is rugged and arid, overlooking steep cliffs.
Ciutadella
Ciutadella is the second largest city in Menorca and also one of the most beautiful. This is where beautiful white houses and extremely picturesque narrow streets await you. Ciutadella is a very atmospheric and romantic city, it is worth going here during the day to admire the wonderful architecture and in the evening to make the atmosphere even more magical.
Fornells
Fornells is asmall fishing village located in the northern part of Menorca, approx. 26 km from Maó. Its popularity was brought about by excellent conditions for water sports and restaurants offering delicious fish dishes. You will be amazed by the wonderful port and white-painted houses that stand out against the blue sky. Crystal reading water and peace are the main advantages of the village. In July, a festival is held here in honor of the patron saint of fishermen. Then, this normally quiet town turns into a bustling one.
Binibeca
Binibeca is located 8 km from Mahón. It is a beautiful city, like most cities in Menorca, with characteristic small houses with rounded shapes, painted white, with narrow streets where peace and quiet prevail.
La Binibeca Beach has clear, deep waters and fine sand, located next to a pine grove. It is not very large, but it is adjacent to the bays of Binidalí, Biniparratx, Biniancolla and Binisafuller, which are also worth visiting.
Cala Galdana
Cala Galdana is located approx. 35 km from the capital of the island – Maó (Mahón), and approx. 19 km to the city of Ciutadella. The region lies on a small bay called the “queen of the sea”, covered with a fragrant pine forest. Walking along the shore, you can easily find a quieter bay for sunbathing and swimming. Hiking enthusiasts should go to the hills of Mirador de Riu or Mirador de Sa Punta, from where there is a beautiful view of the entire island.
Cala en Porter
Cala’n Porter is located on the South East Coast. Approximately 15 mins., from the Airport in mostly unbuilt , pristine coastline surrounded by beautiful countryside on all three sides. There is no aircraft noise.
Cala en Porter is set atop the cliffs overlooking a stunning bay in a protected nature area offering fabulous views of countryside, white sands and turquoise waters. The resort attracts couples as well as families, particularly for self catering holidays. Cala en Porter is a mixture of residential homes, Villas and Apartments with just a few hotels.
Torre d’en Galmés
Along with 31 other Thalaotic settlements on the island, Torre d’en Galmés is being considered for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List. A visit to this place is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the different stages of Menorca’s history. Therefore, the settlement is now open to the public and houses an interpretation center aimed at helping visitors understand the archaeological remains.
Beaches And Bays
Menorca is an island of over 100 beaches and bays, a paradise for lovers of azure water and laziness on the sand. In the north and west of the island are the most famous and spectacular beaches of Menorca: Cala Macarella, Cala Turqueta, Cala Mitijana, Cala en Bosch and many others located just a few kilometers south of Ciutadella.
Macarelleta Beach
Cala Macarelleta is a wonderful paradise beach located at its southern end, near the town of Serpentona. This is one of the most beautiful beaches of the archipelago, with an amazing, peaceful atmosphere that attracts people looking for respite on the Mediterranean Sea. This beach is famous for its white, fine sand and clear, crystal-clear water with a turquoise shade.
Cala Algaiarens Beach
Cala Algaiarens, also known as La Vall, is a large, wide cove divided into two medium-sized golden sandy beaches, known as Plaja des Bot on the eastern side and Platja es Tancats on the western side. Both beaches have calm, protected seas and are shallow for quite a long distance. It is a popular cove among both locals and tourists.
The beaches are perfect for families. The shallow water makes it an ideal place for families with children, both for swimming and playing in the sand.
Cala Mitjana Bay
Cala Mitjana in Majorca is one of the most fascinating bays on the island. The land leading to Cala Mitjana is private and belongs to a wealthy family. The decision to open the trail to tourists and residents, so that everyone could be accessible to this beautiful place. Of necessity, it is extremely beautiful, peaceful and picturesque here. It is inaccessible to the crowds of visitors and the area has no shops or toilets, so be sure to stock up on food and drink before heading here. You can only meet them on wild expeditions and amazing views.
As for the surrounding area, it is worth making a trip to nearby bays such as Cala Sa Nau, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Petita, Cala Gran, as well as the beautiful Parc Natural de Mondrago, Calo des Moro, Cala Llombards and many others.
Nightlife
Menorca’s nightlife is concentrated in the island’s two main city centers, the capital Mahón and ancient Ciutadella. Nightclubs can be found along the port and coast, as well as in the historic center of Ciutadella. Lots of people gather here after dark to stroll around and have a drink in one of the many bars, restaurants and pubs with terraces. There is no shortage of discos and discotheques where you can dance until dawn: most clubs are open until six in the morning, so you can have fun.
What to eat on the island of Menorca?
You need to know that the Balearic Cuisine consists of two traditional activities of the inhabitants – fishing and agriculture, which dominated on the islands before the development of the tourism industry.
Here are the traditional Majorcan dishes:
1). Frit mallorqui – it is a dish prepared from potatoes fried in olive oil, pork or lamb offal, green peppers, onion and garlic. We can also find a fish version of this typical Majorcan dish.
2). Sopes mallorquines – are delicious vegetable soups served with pieces of country bread. The selection of vegetables depends on the individual taste of the cook and the season; You can also find versions with meat or mushrooms.
3). Tumbet – made of eggplants fried in olive oil, red peppers, tomatoes and potatoes with garlic and parsley. Sometimes meat is added, although the vegetarian version tastes best. It is served in restaurants as a main course or tapas.
4). Arros brut (“dirty rice”) – is considered by gourmets to be a must-try dish of Majorcan cuisine. The dish is made of hare meat (you can also find versions with rabbit, chicken or pork) and vegetables, including tomatoes, artichokes and onions. It is served in a deep plate and eaten with a spoon.
