If you’re searching for the best Spanish getaway, make your technique to Menorca, some of the charming Balearic islands.
In this text, I’ll stroll you thru the highest issues to do in Menorca and offer you a ton of recommendations on find out how to have one of the best time whereas exploring this stunning island.
In case you’re questioning, Menorca is a Mediterranean island within the Spanish Balearic archipelago positioned within the western a part of the Mediterranean Sea. Flights to Menorca from principal metropolis facilities like Madrid or Barcelona take round 1-1:30 hours, making it a handy vacation spot for vacation goers.
Typically overshadowed by the grand Mallorca and full of life Ibiza, Menorca shouldn’t be ignored! It’s among the best Spanish islands to go to on account of its deep historical past, beautiful panorama, and limitless issues to do.
An official UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Menorca is really beautiful when it comes to panorama, with clear turquoise waters, white sand seashores, and an abundance of wildlife. Besides the pure wonders, it additionally has a deep historical past of occupation and historic civilizations, making for a most attention-grabbing journey exploring a wild previous.
To present you all that’s ready for you, listed below are one of the best issues to do in this beautiful seaside vacation vacation spot!
Menorca Things to Do Highlights
- Sunset Picnic: Enjoy an opulent, natural farm-to-table sundown picnic in a secret native sundown spot. Perfect for romantic surprises or for a memorable expertise with mates.
- Private Chef Experience: If you’re in a villa in Menorca, think about hiring a personal chef to prepare dinner for you and your folks, bringing solely the freshest components and one of the best wines proper at your step.
- Haf-Day Boat Excursion: Visit probably the most stunning seashores within the South Coast of Menorca, whereas having fun with the stress-free breeze of the ocean.
- Island Discovery Jeep Safari: Take a trip on one among these cozy 4×4 automobiles as you go on a guided tour by way of the attractive landscapes of an island that is stuffed with historic areas.
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Best Things to Do in Menorca
1. Get Lost in Old Town Ciutadella
It wouldn’t be a Spanish metropolis with no thriving Old Town to move you to a time way back.
Ciutadella, Menorca’s Old Town, is the proper place to get misplaced for a day. Weave your method by way of slim streets full of colourful homes, and ogle on the sprawling cathedrals and hidden squares.
There’s lots to do in Ciutadella apart from getting misplaced, like visiting the Plaça Nova which is a sq. filled with tapas bars, cute cafes, and little boutique outlets. Or you may make your technique to the Santa Maria Cathedral which was completed in 1382.
While this non secular monument had been destroyed time and time once more, it was all the time rebuilt. Today, Santa Maria Cathedral is a large neoclassical construction after its last rebuilding within the 1800s.
If you’re in search of the colourful streets that Ciutadella is so well-known for, wander over to Carrer de Sant Cristofol the place the homes are vibrant, brilliant, and the proper backdrop for some photographs. Visit within the late afternoon and benefit from the homes being bathed within the solar’s glow — it’s magical!
Walking round right here is one among our favourite issues to do in Menorca.
A pair different locations to go to in Old Town are the Ses Voltes, which is a beautiful little market promoting trinkets and souvenirs, and the port space which is one of the best place to feast on an area seafood meal.
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2. Explore Ses Pedreres de s’Hostal
While within the space round Ciutadella, cease by Quarries Pedreres de s’Hostal for some breathtaking and distinctive sights. This space is a group of quarries that show shapes, figures, and mazes created by stone carvers who lived on the island way back.
A collection of open-air areas surrounded by rock carvings, the quarries, which as soon as shelled out stone to construct homes in Ciutadella, are a preferred place for concert events and different cultural actions in Menorca as a result of stellar occasion house.
The space underwent restoration within the mid-Nineteen Nineties, and has since been separated into two distinct areas.
In one space you’ll discover the place stonecutters minimize and carved rock by hand, and within the different you’ll discover the place machines had been used to create good stone cubes. There are walkways by way of each areas, permitting you to rise up shut and private with the Menorca stone provide that contributed vastly to the creation of Old Town!
3. Cruise Menorca’s Waters on a Luxury Yacht
The wonderful thing about Menorca is that there are actions for each sort of traveler. So if sea kayaking isn’t your factor, commerce up for a luxurious yacht!
On this three-and-a-half hour tour, you’ll discover the waters of Menorca in type. You’ll get to see all the north coast of the island, with stops at hidden coves and inlets alongside the shoreline.
Feast your eyes on views of lighthouses, port cities, and large cliffs and take the chance to swim, paddleboard, and snorkel whereas out at sea!
A ship journey round beautiful seashores is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Menorca
When you’re all worn out from a day of exploring, calm down on the yacht for some conventional Menorcan appetizers and drinks to actually spherical out the journey. What could possibly be higher on a Spanish island trip?
4. Reach the Top of El Toro
Towering over Menorca is the island’s tallest mountain: El Toro. It’s proper smack in the midst of the island, most simply accessible from the city of Es Mercadal. Take a gander as much as the highest of the mountain (tiring, however completely price it) for panoramic views of all of Menorca.
Besides the views, probably the most placing factor of this mountain is the thirteenth century church sitting on the high. Along with the church, you’ll discover a large statue of Jesus and a restaurant for a fast snack and drink earlier than heading again down the mountain.
If you’re not a lot for mountain climbing, you’ll be able to hop in your bike and cycle up the mountain paths. Or higher but, hop in your automotive and drive to the summit! There’s loads of parking on the high so it can save you your power for extra exploring later.
5. Sip a Sunset Drink at Cova d’en Xoroi
Carved out of the caves in Cala en Porter seaside, you’ll discover some of the magnificently-placed bars on the earth: Cova d’en Xoroi. The bar’s terraces are constructed into little nooks within the rock so you’ll be able to watch the world past whereas sipping on a Menorca specialty.
This is one of the best place to return for a sundown drink as you’ll be able to watch the solar sink low into the ocean, displaying a shocking array of colours proper earlier than your eyes. The surrounding rocks glow as in the event that they’re on hearth from the reflection of the sunshine, creating probably the most enchanting ambiance you may ever think about.
For good motive, Cova d’en Xoroi is likely one of the hottest locations in Menorca and the rocky terraces are fully packed more often than not. Be positive to order a spot prematurely and luxuriate in a Pomada if you arrive!
Trust us, you received’t need to miss a sundown in Cala en Porter- it’s simply magnificent.
6. Relax at Cala Galdana
As far as attractive seashores go, Cala Galdana is true on the high in terms of Menorca.
This insanely stunning crescent formation boasts the clearest, calmest blue water, the softest, whitest sand, and cliffs topped with pine bushes surrounding all the place.
It’s not a quiet or distant seaside by any measure, nevertheless it’s a shocking place to calm down for a day. Besides the seaside, there are superior, built-up amenities on the fringe of the seaside to make for a most snug day.
7. Visit Splash Sur Menorca
If you’re searching for a enjoyable time out for all the household, a go to to Splash Sur Menorca is a good suggestion. Known as among the best waterparks within the Balearic Islands, this resort / waterpark is a high attraction in Menorca.
They have locker leases, a number of swimming swimming pools, and a ton of slides and waterpark facilities.
8. Hop in a Jeep for a 4×4 Tour
Enjoying Menorca by foot is enjoyable and all, however there’s nothing extra thrilling than hopping on a 4×4 Jeep and taking a unique sort of island tour. A jeepney tour is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Menorca, Spain!
On this blood-pumping tour, you’ll get to spend half a day bumping over distant roads that take you to a few of Menorca’s greatest hidden sights.
Besides getting acquainted with Menorca’s natural world on this journey, you’ll get to go to caves, ravines, and crystal clear, untouched seashores, permitting you to see the island from an area perspective.
Either take the explorer tour to see the many of the island or go for a sundown journey for a extra chilled out trip. No matter which you select, benefit from the Spanish breeze whipping by way of your hair from the highest down Jeep. Talk about driving in type!
9. Visit Monte Toro
El Toro in Catalan, or Monte Toro, is the tallest level within the island of Menorca. Visiting Monte Toro is likely one of the high issues to do in Menorca as they views are simply unimaginable.
Although the climb is steep (we don’t advocate doing this mid-day), you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the island. Once you get to the highest, there’s a cafe, restrooms, and a present store. You can both take a taxi or drive your rental automotive up Monte Toro.
10. Visit Cala Turqueta
If you progress alongside the coast of Menorca from Cala Galdana, you’ll end up at Cala Turqueta, a way more secluded seaside that rivals these within the Caribbean. The turquoise water sparkles when the solar hits it and the white sand is ideal for kicking again and stress-free.
If you’re into exploring what lies under the floor, snorkeling is nice at Cala Turqueta as a result of the water is so clear.
For the extra adventurous beach-goers, you may also get that adrenaline repair as there are many locations to dive into the water from the encompassing cliffs. It is definitely one among our favourite locations on all the island.
11. Tour Mahon Harbor
To discover extra of Menorca’s waters, head to the capital metropolis, Mahon, to discover the harbor and all that lives under. It’s mentioned that Mahon Harbor is the biggest pure harbor within the Mediterranean, stretching six kilometers in size and 1,200 meters in width.
There’s lots to discover within the space however one of the best ways to see all of it is to hop on a Yellow Catamaran, which can take you on a tour of all the place.
Besides the Yellow Catamarans, glass boat excursions are ample on the harbor, providing you the possibility to see all that’s residing under the floor from the consolation of a bit of boat!
This is the proper afternoon exercise if you go to Menorca earlier than settling down on shore for a heaping plate of seafood paella.
12. Take to the Sea on a Kayak
If you favor to discover the waters of Menorca by yourself, hire a kayak and take to the ocean! Kayaking in these crystal clear waters is likely one of the greatest issues to do if you go to Menorca, Spain.
This kayak rental is positioned within the harbor of Fornells which is the gateway to a whole UNESCO Biosphere Reserve! Setting off from this location, you’ll be confronted with a dramatic panorama of giant cliffs, hidden coves, and fully empty bays simply ready to be explored and loved by keen vacationers.
On this tour, you’ll spend half a day sea kayaking alongside the Menorcan shoreline, all the best way to Cala Blanca on the southern finish of the bay. There’s no higher technique to get pleasure from hidden seashores and the vast open Balearic Sea than with a day in a kayak!
13. Admire Artifacts at Museo de Menorca
If you desire a break from just a few of Menorca seashores, pay a go to to Menorca Museum for a greater understanding of the island’s previous and Spanish historical past typically. The museum is brimming with archaeological, cultural, and inventive artifacts, making for an attention-grabbing journey again in historical past.
Museo de Menorca is housed in a Baroque-style convent constructing in Mahon, which is a beautiful architectural feat.
There are open courtyards in the midst of the constructing and far of it’s crafted from native stone, with towering columns and open archways.
Admission is free on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 3.00 pm to six.00 pm, so you might as effectively cease by on a free afternoon!
14. Swim in Cala Mesquida
Known as one among Menorca’s greatest seashores, head on over to Cala Mesquida for a swim. It has an in depth seaside with white, sandy seashores which has a restaurant and bar close by.
If you’re fortunate, you may even spot the well-known gelato truck parked close by for a mid-afternoon deal with. Depending on which boat tour you select, some boat journeys have Cala Mesquida of their itinerary!
15.Probe the Past at Museo Militar de Menorca
In stark distinction to Museo de Menorca, the Military Museum is stuffed with battle relics and artifacts to assist guests perceive the bloody historical past of the island. Also positioned in Mahon, this museum is housed in 18th century barracks, making for an attention-grabbing go to, for positive.
Here, you’ll be able to study concerning the totally different occasions Menorca was occupied by overseas lands and the affect they’d on the island’s tradition. You can even see historic weapons right here and find out about different battle websites on the island to go to sooner or later.
16. Visit Cala Macarella
Cala Macarella is likely one of the most well-known coves in Menorca Spain and rightly in order its crystal blue waters are the spotlight of each boat journey round Menorca.
Located close to Cala Macarella is a smaller cove known as Macarelleta. You can really stroll from one to the opposite in lower than 10 minutes. We advocate wandering round these two seashores and coves throughout your journey. There is a carpark close by, making it very accessible.
If you need some train, you may also attain Cala Macarella from Cala Galdana in Half-hour-just be sure to convey loads of water! You’ll get a reasonably view of the island’s shoreline whereas following this path.
The stunning factor about Menorca is that there are many seashores with powder wonderful sand close by to find!
17. Discover Ancient Torre d’en Galmes
Sitting between Alaior and Son Bou within the South Coast of Menorca, you’ll discover an historic Talayotic village that was as soon as inhabited from 1400 BC up till the top of Roman occupation. With greater than 1,000 years of historical past, the ruins on this hilly city are shifting and maintain a deep Menorcan historical past that’s important to understanding this island’s previous.
Covering greater than 60,000 sq. meters, that is the biggest Talayotic settlement on Menorca, so in case you’re going to go to one, make your method right here! When you arrive, you’ll be proven a brief video to assist clarify a few of the historical past in order that if you stroll round, you’ll be able to actually perceive what was right here earlier than.
18. Weave Your Way Through Fort de Marlborough
Located within the cove of Cala de Sant Esteve, head to Fort de Marlborough to study extra about Menorca’s army previous. This fort was constructed between 1720 and 1726 by the British throughout their occupation. It was partially destroyed by the Spanish in 1782 and needed to be rebuilt, creating the construction that stands immediately.
This fort isn’t significantly massive however there’s lots to see and discover. On a go to right here, you’ll be able to watch a historic re-enactment to find out about what occurred when the fort was beneath siege in addition to discover the grounds and fort itself.
When wandering the halls within the huge rocky enclosure, it’s straightforward to think about taking cowl when beneath assault or taking pictures cannons from the particular hidden home windows!
19. Enjoy the Outdoors at S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve
Sitting within the northeast of Menorca, you’ll discover a beautiful reserve that makes up 50 sq. kilometers, with landscapes starting from forests to dunes, to cliffs and marshes. Besides what’s on land, the character reserve additionally encompasses 5 close by islands as effectively.
A go to to S’albufera des Grau is a should for nature lovers as you’ll discover a enormous vary of wildlife. Birds (greater than 90 totally different species!), flowers, olive groves, distinctive shrubs, bushes, and bushes — you’ll discover all of it on this nature reserve.
The park is full of pathways the place you’ll be able to stroll, run, or cycle to get a style of Menorca’s pure magnificence.
Es Grau is even house to the well-known hike alongside Cami de Cavalls which is a whopping 180 kilometers lengthy and circles all the island! This is likely one of the most beautiful hikes in Northern Menorca.
20. Snap Pictures in Binibequer Vell
On a go to to Binibequer Vell, you’ll be able to’t assist however ask your self whether or not you’re in Santorini or Spain. An space flooded with whitewashed homes and cobblestone lands, there’s extra happening on this picturesque village than meets the attention.
Binibequer Vell was really constructed in the course of the Seventies by Spanish architect Antonio Sintes Mercadal. He wished to recreate a conventional fishing village, so white two-storey buildings and a Moorish type ambiance got here to life — and with it a heavenly little spot on Menorca.
This is a good place to walk round, and there are many scrumptious eateries to cease for a chunk to eat. If you’ve got a candy tooth, don’t miss out on a cone from La Golosa Gelateria!
21. Visit Son Saura Beach
Another common seaside to go to whereas in Menorca is the well-known Son Saura Beach. Its white, sandy seashores are common amongst locals and is a reasonably common spot.
However, with that being mentioned, it’s nonetheless one among Menorca’s secluded seashores as there aren’t any amenities apart from a portaloo. We advocate packing your individual picnic and umbrella in case you determine to enterprise right here.
22. Enjoy Fine Wine at Bodegas Binifadet
Finally, consuming and consuming your method by way of Menorca is inevitable, so make certain that charming Bodegas Binifadet is in your checklist of locations to cease!
Serving as Menorca’s principal vineyard, yow will discover the best Spanish reds at this winery. Take a guided tour of the tree-lined lanes earlier than settling down on the restaurant for a particular tapas and wine pairing.
Don’t miss out on Binifadet’s specialty: goat cheese that’s been marinated in pink wine!
23. Scuba Diving in Menorca
One of one of the best issues to do in Menorca is discover the underwater world! This introduction to scuba diving tour is the proper method to do that.
Even in case you’re an entire newbie, the tour gives you an summary on find out how to use the gear, whereas displaying you the beautiful Menorca marine reserve. We advocate this exercise when visiting Menorca.
After studying this, are you satisfied that Menorca is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Spain? I do know I’m!
With pristine seashores, small villages, historic websites, and age-old fortresses, there’s an limitless quantity of issues to do on this island. No matter what sort of journey you’re searching for, one which’s jam-packed with historical past or relatively one which’s spent lounging on the seaside, yow will discover it in Menorca!
How to Get Around Menorca
Like most locations in Europe, Spain is definitely accessible through public transport. However, if you’re in a small island this modifications. While there are buses and taxis, there may be nothing like the liberty {that a} automotive rental gives you.
While some individuals are hesitant to hire a automotive whereas overseas, it’s tremendous protected and simply provides you a lot freedom and suppleness! Click right here to match automotive rental costs. You’ll be stunned at how reasonably priced it’s!
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