The whole of Menorca has been a UNESCO biosphere reserve since 1993, and much of it is protected. The landscape alternates between the jagged north coast, battered by the tramontana wind, with dark rocks and red-sand coves, and the white limestone south coast, with pine woods and turquoise coves separated by ravines (barrancs), deep green gorges.
The Camí de Cavalls
The Camí de Cavalls is an ancient path, used since the Middle Ages by riders guarding the coast against pirates, that circles the whole island. Restored and waymarked, it is about 185 km long, divided into 20 stages of 5 to 15 km, and is also part of the European GR 223. It passes beaches, coves, cliffs, pine woods, wetlands and lighthouses. It can be walked, cycled by mountain bike on some stretches and partly ridden on horseback. The southern stages, between Cala Galdana and Cala en Turqueta or between Son Bou and Cala Galdana, are the most famous; the northern ones, towards Cavalleria and Favàritx, the wildest.
Natural areas
- S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park, in the north-east, the heart of the biosphere reserve: a lagoon, dunes, Colom island and trails for birdwatching, with herons, ospreys and ducks.
- The southern ravines, such as Algendar, which opens at Cala Galdana, Binigaus and Trebalúger, with caves, gardens and lush vegetation.
- The North Menorca Marine Reserve, between Cap Gros and Fornells bay, with seabeds rich in Posidonia, corals and fish.
- Monte Toro and the inland hills, with dry-stone walls and farms.
Outdoor sports
- Kayaking and paddleboarding, to explore the coves and caves of the south coast.
- Diving and snorkelling, with centres in Fornells, Ciutadella and Cala en Bosc.
- Sailing and windsurfing in Fornells bay.
- Cycling on quiet inland roads, with cycle lanes and rural roads.
- Horse riding, on Menorcan horses.
Tips
The best seasons for walking are spring and autumn: summer is hot with little shade on coastal paths. Bring plenty of water and a hat. In summer car access to many coves is restricted and shuttle buses run. See also Menorca's beaches.