GOOD FOOD, GOOD WINE, GOOD GIN:
A lush climate and fertile ground means Menorca is dotted with vineyards that produce some great local wines. Why not book a whole holiday centered around tours of the many wine estates and festivals dedicated to the grape that happen at various tiimes throughout the year? One of our favourites is the Festes de Gracia in Mahon where bottles of wine are thrown into the crowd from the town hall!
Alternatively, for those with a taste for the stronger stuff – Gin! – a tour around the Xoriguer Distillery is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, followed by a cool glass of pomada whilst enjpoying the island’s magnificent sunsets!
Gastronomy is taken to a whole new level in Menorca as being surrounded by the warm waters of the Mediterranean means that the island’s seafood is exceptional. Look out for the local lobster stew caldereta de llagosta which is Menorca’s most celebrated traditional dish. Sample delicious cheeses at the many cheese factories, or try the popular tapas of sobrassada; cured pork sausage seasoned with paprika and served on toast.
A NATURE LOVER’S PARADISE:
Menorca has relatively little mass tourist development and proudly boasts being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993. This has resulted in most of the island remaining a genuine oasis of unspoilt beauty and the island is committed to the protection of its natural landscape. Species such as secretive pine marten, peregrine falcons in the ravines of the Barrancs and turtles, thrive in five beautiful parks and numerous reserves across the island. Visitors can hike around the entire island using the Cami de Cavalls trail and also explore Menorca’s original capital Ciutadella which features a particularly gorgeous Old Town with a wonderful mix of historical buildings, fantastic shops and buzzy cafes. We suggest visiting its gothic Santa Maria cathedral, built on the foundations of a 13th-century mosque. In addition to this, there are an impressive 1500 megalithic sites on the island proving a prardise for archaeologists, history buffs or anyone interested in ancient civilisations.
THE ULTIMATE SUNSET:
We highly recommend a visit to Cova d’en Xoroi which is a natural cave that houses a sophisticated lounge halfway down a cliff! As the sun dips into the Mediterranean, grab a cocktail and listen to the waves crashing on the rocks below. As dusk appears, torches are lit and the laid-back venue transitions into a lively night club. Alternatively there are plenty of secluded bays, pretty little harbours and quaint coves to enjoy that idylic sundowner.
WHERE TO STAY:
There are plenty of gorgeous hotels, villas and apartments in Menorca so it’s an easy choice for a family holiday, a friends weekend away or a couples retreat. We will happily advise which accommodation is best for you, but here’s a few to take a look at…
1. Hotel Torralbenc is a collection of white-washed farm buildings dating from the 19th and early 20th century, that have been renovated into luxury accommodation, respecting the rich heritage and archaeology of the area. The hotel boats stunning countryside views of the local vineyards and is more suited to grown-ups although children are welcome year round, but there are no specific kids facilities.
2. The Melia Cala Galdana is set in one of Menorca’s most beautiful coves and enjoys spectacular views of the bay. There is a large swimming pool, a range of land-based sports activities and watersports, plus entertainment in the evening. More suited to families or those looking for a livley hotel in easy reach of a local town. For younger guests there is a kids pool, mini club and children’s menus at dinner.
3. Cugo Gran Menorca was once a grand private residence, now a 12-room villa offering guests refined earth-hued interiors and tranquillity amidst Menorca’s verdant countryside. A scenic drive from Mahón harbour, the island capital’s storied heart, Cugo Gran Menorca rests near miles of agricultural lands steeped in local traditions.
If Menorca sounds ideal to you, we look forward to helping you plan your next get away.
(L-R) Nick, Cheryl, Claire & Christian
Tel: 020 8891 0166 / Email: [email protected]
