A dazzling Balearic Island, Menorca (or Minorca) has blissful beaches, sandy coves and a more laidback ambience than its neighbours Ibiza and Mallorca. As the first territory of Spain to witness the sunrise, Menorca is like the ambassador to the morning. Unspoiled, bucolic, bright sand, crystal-clear water. Pretty much every tourist brochure image is actually true when you are talking about the shores in Menorca – they are overwhelmingly picturesque and relatively unoccupied. Playa De Binigaus beach is suitable for families, while Cala Mitjana is a perfect spot for romance. Boasting the world’s 2nd largest natural dock, Menorca’s capital Mahon is the heart of the nightlife, with numerous clubs and bars. However, as soon as you head to one of the Menorca resorts, things start to dwindle. Head to the town of Alaoir to check out some of the fresh local cheese or feel like in a precious past in the charming fishing village of Fornells. Menorca is the idyllic place for a relaxing holiday. Not only are there beaches aplenty, but it also feels calm, so you’ll love it if you prefer relaxing strolls to rollercoasters and leisurely meals to vigorous nights out. Its benign landscapes are perfect for activities such as walking, cycling or riding – with no scary steep inclines for those of us who are not super able-bodied. Stone monuments thousands of years old are sprinkled across the terrain, providing markers for a hiking vacation, while ancient coastal paths have been restored to link the infinite series of splendid coves.
When to go
Although the season starts in May and dwindles in October, the island is beautiful in early spring when the almonds blossom. Outside the hottest months of July and August, all the Balearics are superb for active holidays, whether easy or more challenging. Outside peak season, it is still often warm enough to lay in the sun and the temperature is perfect for strolling around the coastal routes, however, you may well hit a rainy time in late autumn.
