Menorca, an Island of Contrasts

Posted on by Marcia Mayne

Menorca is the second largest of the Balearic islands, and is ideal for the family seaside holiday, with a climate that offers 315 days of sunshine a year.  Life is slower and more peaceful on Menorca, compared to the highlife offered by the entertainment bars and clubs of Majorca and Ibiza.  Not many people know that Menorca has almost as many beaches as the two combined combined, so visitors are spoilt for choice.  The south coast offers a number of peaceful resorts, whilst if you favour a more rugged coastline, the little fishing villages of the north coast are likely to prove a greater attraction.

On the Beach offer all inclusive Menorca holidays with a wide range of choice, from hotels based in some of the livelier resorts like Cala Santandria, one of Menorca’s most popular areas,  to the relatively unknown little town of Binibeca, with its old and new towns, and narrow winding cobbled streets.  In contrast, Cala Santandria, with its golden beach at the end of a winding bay, offers lots of evening entertainment, and a great choice of restaurants and cafes, as well as efficient transport links to the old capital of the island, Ciutadella.

Some top tips for things to do and places to go on your Menorcan holiday :

·         Getting Around: as the island is largely flat, cycling is a great way to explore Menorca, not only for the dedicated cyclist, but also for families enjoying a day out together.  Not only do you get fit, but you save the expense of taxis or car hire! Cycling tracks traverse the island, and offer the opportunity to visit some beautiful little hidden bays, or to enjoy the spectacular views from the cliff tops of the north coast.

·         Eating out: of course you can expect that fish and seafood is a speciality of most Menorcan restaurants, and culinary treats not to miss during your visit include the  local dish, “caldereta de llagosta”, a delicious lobster stew.  In even the smallest villages you are likely to find a bar serving delicious salads with fresh prawns, but for the most popular bars and restaurants you need to visit the Placa d’Espanya in Mahon, or explore the eateries lining the harbor and waterfront.  For a more unusual dining experience, chose one of the trogolodyte restaurants carved into the cliffs of Ciutadella.

·         Places to visit: the town of Ciutadella is one of oldest towns in Menorca, first established by the Romans.  Wander the attractive narrow winding streets of the old town, visit the cathedral, and the Palace Torre Saura.  Mahon, still a busy and thriving port, is the walled capital of the island, situated in a dramatic position at the end of a large natural harbor.   It is crammed with interesting architecture, from gracious streets of bow-windowed 18th century houses and the remains of early Christian basilicas, to a military prison used by the British when they occupied the island.  Amongst the earliest tourists to Menorca were Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton.

25 comments on “Menorca, an Island of Contrasts”

  1. Ola! Insidejourneys,
    I take your point, The Balearic Islands are positioned in the Mediterranean Sea, just few miles off the east coastline of Spain. There are four islands which constitutes the Balearics are Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca and Formentera. Mallorca, is also recognised as Majorca. This name means that enduring leisure, brilliant sunshine, attractive beach locations and a festivity atmosphere that are planning to last forever.
    Regards

  2. The coincidence is I was supposed to be here right now. My friend’s family has a villa there and a group of us was supposed to come and holiday on the island. But it didn’t work out and we ended up in Italy (not a bad place to end up).

    I was told that there is a huge disparity between those with money and those without on the island; and that there’s no middle. And that there are lots of “nude” beaches. Along with great snorkeling.

    Its too bad I missed it because I like low-key places.

  5. Its like you read my mind! You appear to know so much about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you can do with some pics to drive the message home a bit, but other than that, this is wonderful blog. A fantastic read. I’ll certainly be back.

  6. You had me at “315 days of sunshine a year”! Sounds awesome, and nice to have a calmer alternative to Ibiza! Thanks!

  7. I was in Majorca in May, but really wish we would have gone to Menorca instead. I think the less crowed, more nature would be more my thing.

  8. Menorca seems like a very good destination! The shot is amazing.
    Nice read, have a wonderful week ahead Marcia:)

  15. I agree, Sherry, Italy is nothing to sneeze at. Menorca will be there. Hopefully, you can arrange another trip.
    Somehow I’m not surprised to hear about the income disparity or the nude beaches. Sounds quite familiar. Hope you get another chance to go.

  16. Thanks for that information, Oahu Free Resorts! Interesting to hear that the festivity atmosphere will be there when I make another trip.
    Thanks for visiting and leaving a comment.

  17. I’d never heard of this place but naturally, you know every nook and cranny. I guess I need to get out more.

  19. Pingback: A destination not to end up being missed Spain Balearic Islands Menorca | Freelance Blog Writing

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