What to do in Menorca
This jewel of the Mediterranean is the perfect destination for a holiday with family or friends. The island’s natural beauty, thanks to which it was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, includes beaches lapped by gin-clear waters like no others in the world and landscapes full of prehistoric remains, while it’s also famed for its many activities, its cuisine, and its leisure proposals.
Below are some of the real must-dos, but make sure to download our island guide to find out all your options.
Sport
Golf Son Parc Menorca
Sheltered, flat and narrow 18-hole course with par 71, redesigned by renowned golf architecture company Dave Thomas Ltd. Located in a pleasant and chilled setting, in an area full of native vegetation.
History and culture
Isla del Rey – Hauser & Wirth Menorca
Located opposite Marina Port Mahón, the Isla del Rey is a fascinating island to visit as it's home to a former hospital dating right back to 1711. Fully restored, visitors can explore the old rooms and spaces that display medical equipment from the period.
What's more, the island boasts a restaurant and an incredible art gallery that exhibits works by renowned national and international artists.
Meaning King's Island, its name comes from it being the first place in Menorca that King Alfonso III stepped on when he went to conquer the island from the Moors. In 1802, Menorca became part the Spanish realm and the hospital continued to serve navies sailing in the Mediterranean right up to 1964.
Fortaleza de la mola
La Mola is the first place in Spain where the sun rises, as well as being one of the largest fortresses in Europe. It was built in the nineteenth century by the Spanish monarchy to defend the Port of Mahón from possible invasions by sea. The fortress has a magnificent layout and is wonderfully preserved.
Talaiotic Menorca
Despite covering just 700 km2, Menorca is home to 1,586 archaeological sites. Some of them are excellently preserved and easily accessible, giving a fascinating insight into the island's prehistory. Some of the most important are the Cova des Coloms, the Naveta des Tudons, the Necropolis of Cala Morell, the Necropolis of Calescoves, and the Talaiotic Settlement of So na Caçana
Shopping
Footwear from Menorca
Menorca has a long-standing tradition in the production of footwear, internationally renowned for its outstanding quality. Typical shoes include the avarca espadrille, while hand-crafted brands such as Mascaró or Pons Quintana are sold across the world.
Street markets
In summer, plazas in the island's villages come alive with street markets where Menorca's artisans exhibit their work, ranging from handicrafts to typical foods such as Mahón cheese.
Cuisine
Wineries and wine tastings Binifadet
Torralbenc
Torralbenc is a restaurant located in a stunning Menorcan farmhouse that has been renovated and converted into a sumptuous luxury hotel.
Its menu features the highest quality local produce, advised by Michelin-starred chef Gorka Txapartegi and created by head chef Luis Loza. The restaurant serves authentic dishes with hints of Basque cuisine, always respecting the true roots of Menorcan cuisine.
Sa Llagosta Fornells
Located in the idyllic port of Fornells, Sa Llagosta is the place to savour lobster in all its facets, from the typical caldereta stew to more modern recipes created by chef David Coca, such as lobster with aioli gratin, onion salsa or rice. The restaurant is recommended by the Repsol Guide for lovers of this typical Menorcan seafood.
Leisure
Cova d'en Xoroi
Fiestas locales
Horses play a leading role in festivals across Menorca, in particular the Menorquín breed. Every summer, villages across the island play host to festivals where these stunning thoroughbreds jump and dance along the streets.
And, of course, no Menorcan festival would go amiss without the typical drink of Xoriguer gin with lemonade. Check out all the fascinating festivals here:
By sea - North coast
Cala Pregonda
40°03′25″N 4°02′26″E
Spectacular unspoilt beach with copper-hued sand and turquoise waters located on the northern side of the island. The beach has islets in the middle of the sea that make it truly unique in comparison to other beaches on the island.
Cala tortuga
04º 15' 19,471'' E 39º 59' 17,368'' N
Unspoilt beach with fine white sand and turquoise waters that can only be accessed by sea or along the famous Cami de Cavalls. The perfect beach for lovers of pure nature and serenity.
By sea - South coast
Macarella y Macarelleta
39.9383 N, 3.93716 E
Wonderful unspoilt beach with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters surrounded by a lush pine forest and spectacular cliffs. A treat for all the senses.
Cala Santa Galdana
39°56′18″N 3°57′36″E / 39.93827778
With three hundred metres of fine white sand, this is one of the longest beaches in Menorca and is surrounded by lush vegetation. Amenities within easy reach include restaurants, hotels, bars and shops.
