Hotels in Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain)

Menorca – an unspoiled island in the Mediterranean Sea

Menorca is the second-largest of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean. However, although it is still a popular holiday destination due to its great climate, beautiful beaches and clear waters, it is quieter than its busy neighbours of Ibiza and Majorca. It retains an unspoiled charm and relaxed atmosphere thanks to the people of Menorca being protective of the island’s nature and history. Menorca is part of Spain, but as the island’s flag of four red stripes on a gold background suggests, the official language is not Spanish but Catalan. That said, as a visitor to the island you are still likely to be spoken to in Spanish. Interestingly, if you are a big fan of mayonnaise you have Menorca to thank for that culinary delight as this is the place from which it first originated.

Enjoy beautiful beaches

With 220 kilometres of stunning coastline, there are more beaches in Menorca than in both neighbouring Ibiza and Majorca combined. Some of Menorca’s beaches have been developed to offer modern facilities such as showers, toilets, and places to get a drink and bite to eat. At three kilometres long, Son Bou is the longest beach in Menorca. With shallow water, this beach is perfect for families and you are sure to get a spot if you just want to sunbathe. Punta Prima is another popular spot for water sports, partly due to the strong sea currents. Here you will find there is equipment for sailing and windsurfing available to rent, as well as pedal boats for those wanting to enjoy something a little less active. There are also a number of remote but accessible beaches that remain untouched. One example is the unspoiled Cala Mitjana near the town of Ferreries, where visitors have the opportunity to get away from it all and well and truly relax. With so many beaches to explore you are sure to find a good one nearby, whichever of the many hotels you choose.

Marvellous Mahon

The capital of Menorca, Mahon, has a historic centre and a busy harbour. The harbour is a great place to stroll, or alternatively you can just sit and watch the boats coming and going while you also admire the many yachts that are moored up. Along the harbour side there is a good choice of bars and restaurants for you to enjoy a drink, a light snack or a full meal. If you want to know more about the naval history of the harbour, or see the local marine life, there are locally-run glass-bottomed boat tours available. If you visit the town on a Saturday there is Mahon Market that you can visit, with this being a place where you might well pick up a good holiday bargain or two. Also worth a visit in Mahon is La Mola fortress. Originally built to protect the town from invaders, there are several buildings and lots of tunnels to explore, as well as magnificent views to be had from atop the high fortress walls. Just make sure you wear good shoes if you do visit La Mola fortress as there are plenty of steps to negotiate. If you would like to stay in Mahon, there are plenty of hotels for you to choose from.

Explore historic Ciutadella

Ciutadella is a popular place to stay in Menorca, with its hotels and glorious beaches for relaxing, as well as an interesting history to explore when you feel like doing more. In the old town you will find an area called Ses Voltes, which translates as ‘the arches’. Here there are lovely old buildings and in the arches themselves there are bars, restaurants and small shops. The cathedral of Santa Maria, which dates all the way back to 1300, is a landmark in the town. Although damaged over the years, most recently during the Spanish civil war, the cathedral has been restored and has lovely stained glass windows that are a delight. For a more unusual visitor experience, but one that is enjoyable nonetheless, Lithica was once two ancient quarries but has now been transformed into a maze and gardens. For those wanting to visit an even older site, visitors with an interest in archaeology might like Naveta of Es Tudons. This stone burial chamber near Ciutadella was in use until about 750 BC and is now a popular tourist spot.

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