Menorca Tourism at its Best

Author: martinethomp | Posted: 24.04.2012



One of the best scenic spots in the Balearic Islands has to be Menorca. It is a very relaxing and tranquil tourist destination for families and individuals who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life for the weekend or a few days.

Interesting facts

Menorca is an old Latin word that means “minor” because this is the smaller island compared to Mallorca. It is only 32 miles long and barely 9 miles wide but it offers many superb beaches with many secluded and unspoiled bays along its beautiful coast.

Menorca is beautifully green with sparse ancient stone walls dividing the fields. North Menorca is more rugged than its south. Intriguing Bronze Age sites can be found across the island with navetes or tailaiots which are very ancient stone monuments that look like upturned boats.

Menorca towns

Menorca boasts of two main towns in Ciuldadela and Mahon which lies west and east respectively. There are plenty of ancient historical buildings with interesting quaint squares which could be explored freely. Ciudadela offers impressive 19th century villas with some great Spanish squares. There is a delightful ancient cathedral and equally excellent museum which showcases prehistoric relics.

Mahon is the capital that is situated alongside the cliff which overlooks a large natural harbor. It is in a most strategic location to win lots of battles in the past. However, Menorca was conquered by the British during the mid 18th century Spanish Succession war. Its current Georgian buildings reflect the strong British influence since. The town’s 19th century Santa Maria church boasts of an organ with 3,000 pipes while the bays offer many fine beaches that can be reached by ferry boats.

Menorca beaches

Menorca beaches can be very long with gentle slopes of golden sand with world class holiday resorts. Some of Menorca’s beaches are sported by high cliffs on both sides. There are pretty bays and quaint little towns near these beaches with natural parks and mountain delights to thrill the tourists in terms of natural landscapes, fresh air and activities.The Albufera des Grau natural park houses many exotic flora and fauna that are unique to Menorca while Toro Mountain is Menorca’s highest mountain at 1200 feet. Many outdoor and water sports activities are available at Menorca beaches with sub aqua activities being the more popular choice. An aqua park is available with a golf course for the avid golfer nearby. There may not be a vibrant nightlife in Menorca but pubs and bars are easily available.

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