Visiting Menorca - What to See and Do

(Menorca, Spain)

Menorca is the second largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, covering an area of 270 square miles and boasting a population of 68,000.

Over the years, Menorca has escaped most of the hype associated with packaged holidays, while at the same time the island offers a relaxed and soothing holiday location for visitors of all ages.

With its countless small towns, sleepy fishing villages and outdoor activities, this Spanish Mediterranean island is also a popular venue for European Union conferences.

Ten things you must do in Menorca

• Take a walking tour of Mao. This busy natural bay and harbour offers delicious seafood restaurants and is a splendid place for a stroll along the waterfront.
• Relax in the famous Es Freginal Park, where you can sit and smell the flowers that are artistically arranged and always in full bloom. If you are in the park during the summer, you may be lucky enough to catch a live jazz performance or another cultural event.
• Visit the Xorigure Gin Distillery in Mao. Along with seeing how the spirit is made, you can sample or purchase gin and a number of other liquors direct from the manufacturer at a reasonable price.
• Take a one-hour harbour tour and capture some memorable sights with your camera.
• Access Cales Coves by bus, a complex of prehistoric caves once used during the Talayotic period for a number of pagan ritual activities including burials; these coves can also be seen from the sea.
• Visit the famous Castell de Saint Nicolau with its functional drawbridge and excellent views of the sea and surrounding area.
• Enjoy a coffee at Placa Alfons III, an attractive square boasting cafés, restaurants, trees and a windmill.
• Journey to the neighbouring island of Ibiza, known for its wild nightlife and mega clubs. Ferries depart from Menorca frequently throughout the day during the summer season.
• Go shopping at Menorca's markets which sell a variety of treats, ranging from deliciously fresh food products to bargain clothes and homeware items.
• Go swimming, indulge in watersports or top up your tan on Menorca's gorgeous beaches.