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Menorca THINGS TO DO |
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Minorca, for almost 100 years was under British rule. It was ceded to Spain in 1802. There is still a strong British influence on the island. In general the nightlife on the island is pretty much low-key with few discos and clubs. Warm evenings are more often spent in the street cafes and bars. The local menu is predominantly seafood or cheese based especially in Fornells where lobster is of the highest quality. Mahon is where mayonnaise originated. The intriguing narrow streets of Cuitadella are great for exploring, and the city offers a wealth of both chic designer stores and local artisan shops. The weekly markets of Cuitadella are a must, and there are plenty of delicious fish and seafood restaurants to choose from. A car is recommended for those staying in Sa Caleta who wish to explore further afield, whether its’ trips to the nearby water-parks, the long sandy beaches of the south coast or the picturesque harbour and vibrant streets of Mahon.
Maó is the island's
capital and main port. It lies three miles from the sea, and is home to one
of Europe's largest deepwater harbours. Britain fortified Menorca
Ciudadela At the
western end of the island lies the former Moorish Capital
Fornells
is an attractive fishing village on the north of the island at the
mouth of a spectacular bay. It is ideal for windsurfing and watersports. 4km
away is
Binebeca
and Binisafua
Monte toro
For a 360° view over the island head to Monte Toro, Menorca´s
Caves of Xoroi -Legend goes this Cave
was once home to a merman. Today it is open to visitors during the day but
turns into a club playing ambient music during the summer evenings. During
the day, it's possible to visit the cave to
see where of the infamous Xoroi once lived. The story goes that Xoroi
appeared from the sea, from where no one knows, and took shelter in a
cave. Soon after local houses were often robbed and a girl, soon to be
married, disappeared. One year, the island became covered in snow
and footprints appeared. On following the prints a search party found a
man and a woman living in a cave with their three children. The man and
his eldest son threw themselves into the sea, and the women and her other
two children lived the rest of their lives in the local village. |
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and
used Mao as a military base for much of the 18th Century.
Ciudadela which was the capital until 1722. Like Mahon it has much to offer
in the form of wonderful buildings and streets. At its centre is Placa d'es
Born with a huge memorial to those who died defending the island in 1558
against the Turks. The old town with its cathedral, palaces and narrow
alleys is picture-perfect and the harbour promenade is a great place for a
nice seafood meal. The pink painted town hall which was once a fortress
reflects the Arab architecture.
the
exclusive resort of Playa de Fornells and close by is a superb beach by the
name of Cala Tirant. Fornells is especially known for its legendary lobster
soup - Caldereta de Llagosta - and the Spanish king is said to regularly
visit one of Fornells' restaurants - enjoying this special dish.
On
the southwest coast are Menorca's first holiday resorts, pretty, mainly
residential areas of privately owned villas with numerous sandy bays to
enjoy. 
highest point.
On top, you can also visit an old monastery. The views are quite astounding!