THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MENORCA, SPAIN
THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MENORCA, SPAIN
INTRODUCTION: THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MENORCA, SPAIN
Welcome to the Balearic Islands and welcome to Menorca, a hidden gem in the Mediterranean! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Menorca offers something for everyone. From its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to its rich history and vibrant culture, this island is truly a paradise waiting to be explored. Get ready to discover the 10 best things to do in Menorca, Spain!
As someone who has lived in the area for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this beautiful beach holiday destination.
(To find out more about this region see our related posts, “Mallorca“, “Ibiza“, “Discover the Balearic Islands“, “Guide to the Coast of Spain“, and our guide to “The Mediterranean Coast” )
WHAT ARE THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MENORCA?
Top 5 Beaches on Menorca
I think it goes without saying that if you are considering a trip to an island destination on the Mediterranean, there is a good chance that at some point during the visit, if only for a few minutes, you are going to visit a beach, maybe even put your big toe in the crystal clear waters. With this assumption, here is a list of the top 5 beaches in Menorca:
- Cala Macarella: This cove is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Son Bou: This is the longest beach on Menorca with shallow calm waters, perfect for children. The surrounding dunes complete the picture
- Cala Mitjana: This secluded bay is surrounded by pine forests and its clear waters teaming with marine life are perfect for snorkeling.
- Binibeca: The beach has clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming, making it a great spot for families and photographers alike.
- Cala Pregonda: With red-golden sand and a rugged landscape, this beach is great for snorkeling.
Top 5 Attractions on Menorca
- Ciutadella: Ciutadella, one of the 2 main towns on Menorca, is a maze of narrow streets, with historic architecture, vibrant plazas, a bustling port, and an impressive cathedral.
- Naveta des Tudons: This well-preserved megalithic monument is a remnant of Menorca’s distant past and its ancient civilizations.
- Monte Toro: The highest point on Menorca, Monte Toro offers panoramic views of the island.
- Fort Marlborough: This British fort was built in the 18th century, a reminder of the period between 1708 to 1802 when Menorca was ruled by Britain. You can explore its underground tunnels and see exhibits detailing the island’s history.
- Cova d’en Xoroi: Cova d’en Xoroi is a unique cave bar and nightclub carved into the cliffs overlooking the sea. Located at Cala en Porter on the south coast, it offers breathtaking views and is a great place to enjoy sunsets.
Top 10 Outdoor Activities and Adventures on Menorca
Note: For many of the activities below, equipment can be rented from local shops or tours booked with local outfitters.
- Hiking the Camí de Cavalls: Explore Menorca’s diverse landscapes on this historic coastal trail, offering panoramic views and access to hidden beaches and coves.
- Snorkeling at Marine Reserves: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Menorca’s marine reserves to discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful marine life.
- Boat Tours: Experience the island from the water with boat tours that showcase stunning sunsets, hidden coves, and pristine beaches. (Visit Website for Black Lizard Boat Tours. )
- Cycling Through Rural Paths: Pedal through Menorca’s scenic countryside on well-marked cycling routes, passing by charming villages and ancient stone structures.
- Kayaking in Fornells Bay: Paddle through the calm waters of Fornells Bay, exploring its picturesque coastline and serene natural beauty.
- Horseback Riding on Sandy Trails: Enjoy a leisurely horseback ride along Menorca’s sandy trails and beaches, immersing yourself in the island’s tranquil and unspoiled environment.
- Cliff Jumping at Cala en Brut: For thrill-seekers, Cala en Brut offers exhilarating cliff jumping spots with clear, deep waters below.
- Windsurfing and Kitesurfing at Son Bou: Experience the excitement of windsurfing and kitesurfing on the breezy shores of Son Bou, Menorca’s longest beach.
- Exploring the Caves of Xoroi: Visit these legendary cliffside caves, which transform into a unique bar and nightclub offering stunning sea views.
- Bird Watching at S’Albufera des Grau: Discover a haven for bird enthusiasts at this natural park, home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife in a serene setting.
Menorcan Cuisine and Dining
Local Dish: Caldereta de Langosta.
Caldereta de Langosta is the single most famous Menorcan dish. This lobster stew features fresh spiny lobster simmered in a savory tomato-based broth, with onions, garlic, and bell peppers. The dish is often served with crusty bread, allowing diners to savor every drop of the delectable broth.
Wine Tasting
Menorca has a burgeoning wine scene with vineyards located at several places on the island. Tours are available at some of these wineries, which also include wine tastings and food pairings
Here are three wineries you can visit in on the Island:
- Bodegas Binifadet: Known as the oldest wine cellar on the island, offering tours and tastings in a beautiful countryside setting.
- Binitord Winery: A charming winery that provides a glimpse into Menorca’s winemaking traditions with its local wine varieties.
- Torralbenc Winery: This winery dedicates a significant portion of its land to cultivating diverse grape varieties, offering a luxurious agritourism experience.
Be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips
Peak Tourist Season
The peak tourist season on the island is during July and August when most regions of Northern Europe have their school breaks. With everybody heading to the Mediterranean coast at the same time, it does get busy so be prepared, plan ahead, and book accommodations, rental cars, plane tickets, and tours well in advance.
Tip: If you are looking for a less hectic experience, you might want to consider traveling in May/June or in Sept/October. The weather is still exceptionally nice and you can escape the large crowds.
Transportation options
- Flying: There is an airport located near the town of Mahon, with both domestic and international flights.
- Ferry: The island can also be reached by ferry with service to the surrounding islands and to the mainland with the main hubs being Barcelona and Valencia.
Accommodations
The tourist infrastructure on the island is well developed so there is no shortage of accommodations in the area. These range from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly youth hostels and guesthouses. There is also a bus system that services the island and car rental services as well. However, as mentioned above, summer is the busiest time in the area so I recommend that you book well in advance. Your best bet is to check online for available places and book as soon as you can. Check out the link further below for places available right now.
FINAL THOUGHTS: THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MENORCA, SPAIN
This island is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical wonders, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re lounging on a beach, exploring ancient ruins, or indulging in local cuisine, this island will captivate your heart. Ready to embark on your Menorca adventure? Start planning your trip now and prepare for an island getaway like no other!
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing the Mediterranean first hand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!
Reg Auge
Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.
