Menorca, Spain

Welcome to my travel blog, where I'll take you on a journey to one of Spain's hidden gems - Menorca! This beautiful Balearic Island may be lesser-known than its neighbors Ibiza and Mallorca, but it's just as breathtaking and boasts a unique charm of its own. From pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters to quaint towns full of history and culture, Menorca has something to offer every type of traveler. 

Things to do in Menorca

There are a variety of activities to do in Menorca. Some popular options include:

1. Beach hopping and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

2. Exploring the island's many hiking trails.

3. Visiting historical sites and museums, such as the Talayotic ruins or the Ciutadella Cathedral.

4. Enjoying water sports like snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

5. Taking a boat tour around the island to see its beautiful coastline and hidden coves. You can rent a boat without a license with "Iguana boats", I really recommend this option as it's stunning to explore the coves in the boat! 

6. Eating 😋

7. Watching the sunset from one of the island's many stunning viewpoints.

Coves and beaches

With over 200 kilometers of coastline, Menorca boasts some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Europe. Whether you're looking for long sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, hidden coves surrounded by rugged cliffs, or quiet and secluded spots, Menorca has something for everyone.

North

• Cala Pregonda: Clear, scenic bay in a cove with a golden-sand beach with rock formations, reached by footpath. One of my favorites in the north, it's a 30-minute walk from the parking lot but it doesn't fill up early (nearby is also Cavalleria beach)

• Cavalleria beach: Stretch of red & gold sand backed by clay cliffs, with snorkeling & swimming in a sheltered bay.

• Cala Algaiarens: Surrounded by scenic cliffs, this quiet cove features deep blue waters & a laid-back beach (semi-nude). You have to walk behind a little hill to get there because it's a bit hidden but it doesn't take long 

South

• Cala Macarella and Macarelleta:  Charming, tiny cove known for its rustic locale, surrounding cliffs & calm, turquoise waters. A 30 min walk from Cala Galdana parking

• Talaier: Small, tree-lined natural cove featuring a sandy beach & shallow water for swimming. A 30 min walk from Turqueta

• Cala Mitjana and Mitjaneta: Scenic cliffside bay with white sand, accessible by boat or walking trail from a parking lot. There's a parking 15 min walk away

• Es Caló Blanc was amazing, like a natural pool, rocky and right next to Binibeca. Barely any walking from the parking lot

• Cala Escorxada and Trebaluguer: Remote bay beach reachable by a hiking path, with calm waters & a connecting river for kayaking.

West

• Cala Turqueta: Tranquil beach spot with blue waters. Parking fills up around 8:30 am, if not, can walk from Cala Son Saura or Cala Galdana, which takes 1.5hrs by foot from both.

• Cala en Brut is for jumping, and it's cool because there are fish and turquoise water and you don't need to go early

Places worth visiting

• Binibeca Vell: a charming little fishing village located on the southeastern coast of Menorca. With its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and traditional architecture, it's a picturesque destination that's perfect for a leisurely stroll and a taste of Menorca's unique culture.

• Coves of Xoroi: The history of the Caves of Xoroi on the island of Menorca dates back to ancient times, as the caves were used by the island's inhabitants for shelter and protection from invaders. Over the centuries, the caves were also used for various purposes, including as a hiding place for smugglers during the 18th and 19th centuries. The caves were rediscovered and transformed into a popular bar and music venue in the 1960s, and they remain a popular tourist attraction on the island today. Views are gorgeous and the caves are very popular to watch the sunset (go early or risk having a long waiting line) . The entry fee of 15 €  includes a drink. 

For sunset lovers

The sunsets in Menorca are truly breathtaking. With its unspoiled natural beauty, Menorca provides the perfect backdrop for a stunning sunset. There are many spots on the island where you can enjoy this magical moment, including beaches, cliffs, and viewpoints. Some popular spots to catch the sunset include Cala en Porter, Cala Morell, and Punta Nati, but I highly recommend the following: 

• Cavalleria lighthouse

• Faro D'Artruix

• Caves of Xoroi or, if too busy, next to it on the rocks

• Pont d'en Gil

Food

• El Balear: a restaurant located in the port of Ciutadella. It offers a wide variety of traditional Balearic and Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce. The restaurant has a charming atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options, and offers great views of the port. Recommended to eat lobster stew (around 60 €  pp)

• Can Rafa: popular seafood restaurant located in the charming town of Es Mercadal in Menorca. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes and the typical dish is fried eggplant, which I recommend to try. With its cozy and traditional atmosphere, Can Rafa is a must-visit spot for foodies visiting Menorca. 

I hope that these recommendations are helpful and provide you with some inspiration for your trip to Menorca. Enjoy your time on the island and all that it has to offer!