Menorca

Menorca is the smallest of the 3 main Balearic Islands and has been designated a Reserve of the Biosphere which strictly controls its development and pollution of the environment.

Few places in the world can match the 120 beaches around our island, from the 3 kms of white powder sand of Son Bou to the tiniest rocky cove providing clean crystal clear water for swimmers and divers alike.  Many of the beaches can be reached only by boat or by narrow, rough tracks and possibly a bit of walking too, but well worth the reward to have a pristine beach at the end almost to yourself!

Menorca is rich in history too: a legacy of centuries of invasion and occupation by Romans, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, French and British amongst others.  The British influence in particular is evident in the architecture of the island, and indeed even in the local dialect.  Archaeological sites abound, most of which have been carefully restored.

Mahon, the capital, boasts one of the finest deep-water anchorages in the world.  The old, beautifully restored buildings of Mahon overlooking the buzzing port are approached via various fine staircases located between the many restaurants and shops around the harbour.  The 1842 Opera House has recently been restored to its former glory and holds regular concerts, dance and theatrical productions.  Throughout the summer the Music Festivals of both Mahon and Ciudadela attract eminent musicians from around the world to perform here.

Springtime in Menorca provides endless opportunities for walkers, and in particular bird-watchers.  The inland lake behind Es Grau in the National Park is a nesting place for many migrating species, and if flowers are your thing, the island is a patchwork quilt of wild flowers from February to May, from wild narcissi to gladioli to lupins and foxgloves.