Things to Do and See in Menorca

Menorca offers you a multitude of ways to take full advantage of your time there. During the day, there are many idyllic routes to be taken, whether by foot, horse or bicycle.

The island is home to some truly spectacular countryside and is a real haven for nature-lovers.  In October 1993, Menorca was designated by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, an incredible distinction that recognises the harmony between the Menorcan inhabitants and the natural surroundings throughout the years, declaring the island as ‘a place of important natural and cultural heritage where economic development is compatible with nature conservation’. In addition the island boasts the Albufera Natural Park (a paradise for birds, fish and reptiles), five natural reservations, a marine reserve and nineteen A.N.E.I areas (Natural Areas with Species of Interest).

Sport also plays an important role in leisure on the island, especially sailing, fishing, riding, diving and golf. A wide range of cultural activities take place throughout the year, including concerts, recitals, trade fairs, exhibitions, theatre productions, and of course there are a large number of museums and libraries. Nightlife in Menorca also offers some enticing alternatives; perhaps a film in the cinema, a game in the casino or drinks in a fashionable bar.
 
To experience the many unique tastes and dishes in Menorca is a must. Many cheeses have been awarded the international ‘Denomination of Origin’, as well as various types of sausage. Also worthy of mention is the pastry-making tradition, famous for, alongside other specialities, its ‘pastissets’ and ‘crespells’. Gin, introduced by the British and now produced on the island, is a popular drink.

Some typical Menorcan dishes are ‘caldereta de langosta’ (lobster soup), ‘calamares rellenos’ (stuffed squid), ‘berenjenas al horno’ (baked aubergines), ‘perdices con col’ (partridge with cabbage), and many more besides, at least one of which should be tasted. Menorca takes pleasure in an extensive list of restaurants, ranging from the most traditional to the most modern of styles, in terms of both furnishings and cookery. There are also a large variety of bars, cafeterias and ice-cream parlours where we can drink a coffee or beer, eat a sandwich or ‘tapa’, and for dessert a traditional ice-cream.

There are so many wonderful attractions in Menorca that there is sure to be something for everyone to see. Mahon, the capital of Menorca is stunning.

It boasts the second largest natural harbor after Pearl Harbour and was an important strategic harbour for the various navies that occupied it. There are several important sights and attractions located around the vast harbour. One of the best ways to see and photograph them is from the water.  There are several British-built buildings that overlook the harbour and these include the old customs house and Golden Farm, where Admiral Nelson once stayed. Fascinatingly Mayonnaise (Mahon-aise) was created here during the French occupation.

It is unknown who the first settlers who were to arrive in Menorca but many of their dwellings and structures are still in existence. Cave dwellings can be seen in the south (Cales Coves and Cova d’es Colom) and in the north (Cala Morell). Also navetes were built which look like inverted ships (navis is the Latin for ship), the best known is found near Ciutadella (Naveta d’es Tudons).

Cycling in Menorca

Why not try a different way to see Menorca - on a bike! Try www.menorcacycling.com , an indepenent company that offer self-guided or fully guided cycling packages which can be tailored to suit your personal requirements. Quality biycles available for hire. The full self-guided cycling package includes: Quality cycles and a choice of routes, varying lengths each day which gives you the freedom to choose how much cycling you feel like. Menorca Cycling have their own high quality, light, well-geared cycles which have a minimum of 18 gears. Assistance is available througout your holiday in case of emergency. All bikes are fitted with comfy sadlles, front and rear lights, panniers, a waterproof map case, maps and plans, helmet, bicyle computer, spare inner tubes, puncture repair kit, tyre levers, bicyle tool and lock.