Menorca Spain Travel Guide

By Jessica Buck

Although small and fairly unknown in comparison to its Spanish sisters, Majorca and Ibiza, what Menorca lacks in size it makes up for in charm and character.

Founded in the 14th century, and with numerous megalithic stones dotted around the island, Menorca has a real ancient feel to it and there are reminders of early pre-historic human activity at every turn.

I’ve been to Menorca many times since I was a little girl, and have the most amazing memories running around on its sandy beaches, swimming in its Mediterranean sea and soaking up its relaxed atmosphere. Everything about Menorca screams traditional Spain, from its small, intimate restaurants and lively piazzas, to its secluded rocky coves and family friendly beaches.

Menorca highlights

Highlights of this island include cities, beautiful sights and gorgeous villages, as well as, of course, its beaches and sunshine. The capital city is Mahon, which is home to the island’s only airport, and famous for its large fishing port and for inventing mayonnaise. (More about Menorca and mayonnaise ). Menorca’s second city is the ancient town of Ciutadella, with its myriad of cobbled streets, a lively town square, a Gothic city hall and Medieval cathedral complete with a Baroque style chapel.

The magnificent Monte Toro, with its on site Church and enormous statue of Jesus Christ, is the highest point on the island sitting 358 metres above sea level and offering stunning panoramic views over the land and sea below. With epic views of the surrounding mountains and Mediterranean Sea, Monte Toro quite literally takes your breath away and provides the most picture perfect backdrop, no matter what time of year you visit.

Favaritx Lighthouse, Fort Marlborough Castle and Cova d’en Xoroi – a bar/restaurant built into a sea cave – are all wonderful things to see and do during a visit to the island and provide a true taste of Spain.

Cova d’en Xoroi in particular has been a real highlight on my many visits to Menorca and provides the perfect place to watch those wonderful Spanish sunsets.

A firm favourite: Binibeca

For me, one of my favourite places on the island is the tiny village of Binibeca. A traditional place with white washed buildings, small side streets and incredible sea views, Binibeca stole my heart and is the complete epitome of Menorca.

Tapas are popular for meals in restaurants, flamenco is showcased in bars for entertainment and gin is on offer pretty much everywhere you can think of, as Menorcans are hugely proud of their most famous export!

Family friendly Menorca

Whilst there is plenty on offer to suit people of all ages, the island is particularly well suited to families with small children looking to enjoy their first holidays abroad. The family friendly resorts of Cala ‘n Forcat, Son Bou and Cala en Bosch provide endless things to do for all ages, with miles of rugged coastline and gorgeous countryside to enjoy.

If you’ve not been to Menorca before, it’s high time you took a visit to this hidden Spanish gem.