Menorca is the second-largest of the Balearic Islands and Spain's easternmost island. Since 1993 it has been a UNESCO biosphere reserve, for its balance between nature, traditional activities and tourism: almost half the territory is protected and the coast is largely free of development. It is the ideal island for clear seas, peace and nature.
History
Menorca has one of the Mediterranean's richest prehistoric heritages: the Bronze and Iron Age Talayotic culture left hundreds of monuments, talaiots, taulas and navetas, recognised by UNESCO in 2023 (see prehistoric art). After Romans, Vandals, Byzantines and Moors, the island was conquered by Aragon in 1287. For most of the eighteenth century it was British, with brief French spells, returning to Spain for good in 1802: British influence shows in sash windows, gin and some words of the Menorcan dialect.
The two towns
- Mahón (Maó), the capital, on the Mediterranean's largest natural harbour, with Georgian architecture and gin distilleries.
- Ciutadella, the old capital, in the west, with its cathedral, noble palaces and little harbour.
Between them, inland, lie Alaior, Es Mercadal, at the foot of Monte Toro, the island's highest point, and Ferreries.
What to do
- Discover the beaches and coves, many say the Balearics' finest.
- Walk the Camí de Cavalls, the 185-km path around the island (see nature and hiking).
- Visit the best places and Talayotic monuments.
- Taste Menorcan food and Menorca gin.
- Join the festivals, with the horses of Sant Joan.
- Buy crafts such as avarcas.
When to go and getting around
The season runs from May to October; June and September are the best months. In winter the island is very quiet, with many hotels closed. Mahón airport has summer flights from many European cities; ferries run from Barcelona, Valencia, Palma and Alcúdia. To reach the coves you need a car or scooter; in summer car access to some beaches is restricted and shuttle buses run.