Menorca – second largest of the Balearic Islands
Smaller and less crowded than neighbouring Mallorca, Menorca is the most tranquil of the Balearic Islands. Its unique archaeological sites and wetlands have afforded the island the status of an environmentally-protected Biosphere Reserve, and it is one of the few places in the Mediterranean where you can still find untouched beaches, coves and ravines. The northern half of the island is green and rugged with a rocky coastline, while the flatter south is drier and home to smooth sandy beaches. Kids will love the aqua park at the family-friendly Cala’n Forcat resort or you can try out a new watersport at the horseshoe-shaped bay of Arenal D’en Castell. Amble along cobbled streets through quaint fishing villages and stop for lunch at a fresh seafood restaurant, or soak up the views and sunshine at the pine-forested cove of Cala Galdana. In Menorca’s case, good things definitely come in small packages.
Why go?
Go for the quaint fishing villages and freshly-caught seafood, the secret beaches and hidden coves. Explore the rugged coastline or prehistoric towers and temples. Or spend time with the kids in the family-friendly resort of Cala’n Forcat. Menorca’s low-key atmosphere makes it the ideal place to relax and recharge.
When to go?
Menorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, sunny summers. Rainfall is modest, and falls most frequently between October and December. Summer temperatures can reach 28°C during July and August and there are almost 11 hours of sun each day. Fine weather continues throughout the year and temperatures rarely fall below zero, so many people choose to visit out of season when prices are cheaper.
How to get there?
Menorca is served by Mahón Airport (MAH) which is 4.5km (2.8 miles) southwest of Mahón. There are regular international flights to Menorca from all over Europe. Direct flights are available from all the main UK airports, flying with Thomson Flights, Thomas Cook and Easyjet - the flight time from London to Mahón is 2 hours, 15 minutes. Car ferries also operate between Barcelona and Mahón and between Alcúdia (in Mallorca) and Ciutadella.
Must see
Menorca may be small, but it’s packed with plenty to see and do so don’t stay tucked under a beach umbrella. If you don’t mind walking, you’ll discover historic treasures like the Roman-built Castell de Santa Agueda and Sanisera, an entire Roman city and outdoor museum. Music-lovers will enjoy the island’s International Jazz Festival, classical music concerts, operatics and organ recitals. More modern tastes are catered for with summer music festivals by local musicians and Cala En Porto has some of the best nightlife on offer.