Cala Alcaufar holidays

Holidays to Cala Alcaufar take you to a stripped-back place on the Balearic Island of Menorca, with just a sandy beach for company – though lively capital Mahon is waiting in the wings.

A very quiet customer

One beach, one bar, one restaurant – no wonder Cala Alcaufar is the go-to place to get away from it all. Set on Menorca’s south-east coast, there’s just one, big relaxed vibe here, and that extends to its equally chilled-out neighbours S’Algar and Punta Prima. When more of a buzz is needed, the capital Mahon is on hand with chic tapas joints and lots and lots of shops

Quiet beach

Cala Alcaufar is all about peace, which is why just pedalos and canoes ripple across the waters of this small, secluded cove. The sea stays shallow a long way out and it’s super-clear for snorkellers. As for the sand, you’ll find it very soft as you stroll across to the beachside hotel for lunch. And whenever you want a change, this side of the coast has lots more coves, ranging from little sandy dots to bigger patches with ramped-up watersports.

Daytrips to Mahon

The capital, Mahon, is about 20 minutes' drive away. It’s worth a full day here for the Gothic cathedral, Georgian-style houses – a throwback to its British rule – and winding maze of cobbled streets filled with shops. And down at the harbour, there’s an ancient gin distillery and a 19th-century fort – not to mention a very long waterfront absolutely bursting with stylish bars and tapas joints.