Menorca is, probably, the most scenic of the Balearic Islands. It is also famous for being a relaxing and peaceful tourist destination with a few family visitor resorts. Menorca gets its name from the old Latin word for minor, because it is smaller than the nearby isle of Mallorca. Despite being just over 32 miles (about 52 km) long and under 9 miles (or 15 km) in width, it has many super beaches and secluded bays along its unspoilt and beautiful coast.
The Menorcan interior is quite green and is often characterised by the old stone walls that sub-divide the fields. The north of Menorca Island is in general more rugged than the south. There are several Bronze Age sites spread throughout the island. Navetes also known as tailaiots, are ancient stone monuments likened to an up-turned boat, are quite common.
The two main towns of Menorca are, Ciuldadela to the west, and Mahon, the capital in the east, are located at opposite points of the island. Both are packed with historical buildings and quaint squares. The Placa des Born in
Ciudadela, is surrounded by fabulous 19th century villas, and is famed as one of the finest squares in Spain. Other popular sights in Ciuldadela include the ancient cathedral and the quite excellent museum that houses a good collection of prehistoric relics.
The capital, Mahon (also called Mao), is aligned along a cliff overlooking the huge natural harbour, which due to its very strategic location was battled over on many occasions. The British took Menorca in the War of the Spanish Succession in the mid 18th century, and the British influence can be found in the local Georgian buildings. One of the most popular sights is the
churches of Santa Maria, famous for the large 19th century organ which has over 3,000 pipes. The small isle of Illa d en Colom, found in Mahon bay, has fine beaches, and is accessible only by ferry boat.
The longest of the
Menorca beaches is a long stretch of gently sloping golden sand found in the holiday resort of Son Bou. A short drive along the coastline from Son Bou is the amazing beach of Cala en Porter, protected on each side by high cliffs. Other tourist resorts on the south coast are Calan Bosch and Cala Galdana, while S Algar and Calan Forcat are located to the east and west coastlines respectively. The pretty and tranquil town of Arenal den Castell, with its specatular bay, is located on the northern coast. Near to Arenal is the natural park of Albufera des Grau and the highest mountain, the 1200 foot
Toro Mountain.
There are loads of outdoor activities to be found in Menorca, with sub aqua especially popular. Menorca has a good 14 hole
golf club, located at Son Parc, and an
aqua park close to Calan Bosch. Menorca is not famed for nightlife, but Mahon has a few music bars around the harbour.
Menorca has just one international
airport located just 3 miles south of Mahon. Transportes Menorca runs the island bus service and there are regular buses between all the big towns and holiday resorts.
