6 Reasons to visit Menorca

Beaches

It’s no secret that the Balearics are home to some of the best beaches around, and Menorca's coastline is no exception. They feature everything from long stretches of sugar-white sands to secluded coves hidden away from the typical tourist trail. Menorca has more beaches than Ibiza and Majorca combined, with most of them awarded with a prestigious Blue Flag, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Watersports

If your ideal trip to the beach is less sunbathing, and more thrill-seeking, then you’re in for a treat. A huge number of beaches means loads of opportunities to try some water sports, such as taking a boat trip or exploring the Menorcan coastline by jet ski. The seas surrounding Menorca are pretty calm, which makes it perfect for trying paddle boarding or sailing for the first time, too.

Food

Did you know that mayonnaise was created in Menorca? And with such a tasty claim to fame, you’d be right in thinking that the rest of their cuisine is great, too. Menorcan food and recipes have been tried and tested, passed down through generations. Our favourites to tuck into are the Mahon-Menorca cheese, which has a recognised protection designation of origin stamp, their oliaigo, a tomato soup, and coca bamba, a sweet treat which is similar to brioche. Whatever you pick, you’re in for a treat.

Unusual bars

There are plenty of fantastic places to grab a drink in Menorca, but nothing beats Cova d’en Xoroi – a bar nestled away inside a cave. By day, you’ll be offered soft drinks and snacks with peaceful views over the Mediterranean sea. By night, things get a little livelier with music and a disco after midnight. Make sure you get there for sunset, as it’s the best spot to see the orange skies melting into the night.

Pirates

Like many European countries, Menorca has a rich history which dates back centuries. But some of its most captivating is their involvement with pirates, who invaded the island back in the Roman times. And what better way to learn about the spooky tales of pirate life than on board our Pirates of Menorca boat, which takes you from Ciutadello harbour past the rocky coastline and deep into a cove and sea grotto, which is said to have been the hiding place for smugglers to conceal their loot. You’ll also get a chance to take a dip or go snorkelling in the waters, while your little ones get to let their inner pirate loose by seeking out hidden treasures and getting a pirate makeover with some face painting.

Parties

The people of Menorca know how to party, and from June to September every year they go all out with colourful fiestas. The main event is the horses, who are dressed up with rosettes and ribbons and paraded through the streets. It’s a great opportunity to drink, with the tipple of choice being Pomada – a combination of gin and lemon juice. There are also live concerts, games and markets, with a huge fireworks display to round off the final night.

Ready to book your holiday to this Balearic gem?

You can find out more about Menorca on our website.

Author: Abi Payne-Humphries