in2menorca The 09 Classic Cover
And go sailing... Where to take to the water around Menorca
PLUS... Our 22 page island guide Best beaches and bathing Don’t miss the Fiesta fun Read our summer fiction thriller
2019. Resorts Maps activities local culture fiestas what’s on
PERFECT HOLIDAY READING
DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT! Detective Inspector Frank Harmer thought early retirement would mean living the dream in the sun on the Balearic Island of Menorca. He thought wrong. The dream suddenly turns sour when a body turns up in a local bay. Who is this person?
Why is he so hard to identify? Why is he in the sea wearing evening clothes? Frank’s services are soon called upon by the local police to help solve the mystery. Will this be just a case of plain sailing? Or will it turn out to be blue murder?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1980887349 http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1980887349 CLICK HERE TO ORDER YOUR COPY!
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elcome to the 2019 in2menorca guide. Packed between our pages we’ve got all you need to experience the
very best of Menorca. You’ll notice that we’ve used one of our classic covers - our fave - on this year’s issue. We felt it was so nice it deserved a second outing. If you ilke messing about in boats, there’s also a special feature on Sailing in and around Menorca. So, don’t forget to download your copy and take us with you on your ipad or phone. Remember, if you need anything, we are just a click away at www.in2menorca.com Your perfect Menorca travelling companion! Disfruta
David Burke
in2menorca iguide Publisher: in2publishing, UK Email: info@in2menorca.com Website: www.in2menorca.com Editors: David Burke, Hilary Burke Copyright: in2publishing 2019 All rights reserved. The publishers cannot accept any responsibility for any factual errors, omissions or misprints. All statements of fact are printed in good faith and have been researched from original sources. in2publishing cannot be held responsible for any products or services advertised. All material in this publication is copyright and belongs to in2publishing. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly prohibited.
Editor
inside...
Sights & Sounds
What’s On
Where to Stay
Island Map
what to see and do
villas and rural hotels
Sailing & Scuba
on & under the waves
Dining Out
We’ve put Menorca on
a plate for you
markets, fiestas and events
find your way around
Feature Article: And Go Sailing . . . The best places to get on the water around Menorca www.in2menorca.com
Paradise by any other name. The peaceful isle. Jewel of the Med. Mallorca’s little sister. The Balearic island of Menorca has had many titles. But it is singular in character and culture, and rich in its natural treasures and unspoilt beauty. No wonder it is such a popular holiday destibnattion with discerning travellers.
aBOUT MENORCA
About Menorca 47km long and 19km wide with 200km of coastline and over 120 beaches, surrounded by crystal clear turquoise seas thriving with marine life, Menorca enjoys more than 320 days of sunshine a year. A natural haven to wildlife, it is a UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve.
this is reflected in the elegant Moorish architecture of the city. The modern capital is Mahon, featuring many historic buildings with English colonialstyle features, and the world’s second deepest natural harbour.
Rich History - Menorca boasts an astounding number of pre-historic sites, over 1000, many from the Talayotic period, and is often referred to as an ‘open air museum´. The original Moorish capital was Ciutadella and
Population & Climate - Average summer temperatures are 27C and winters14C, with sea temperatures to match. Menorca’s resident population is around 75,000 and the local languages are Castellano Spanish and Catalan. English is widely understood.
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http://www.in2menorca.com/english%20pages/weather-menorca.html Menorca Weather
html
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craft fairs and markets
There are a variety of markets around the island selling local produce - from delicious Menorcan cheeses, sobrasada and liquers - to locally grown fruit and vegetables and hand crafted shoes, jewellery and pottery. Wherever you are you will find a market nearby which is well worth a visit, you can sample some fresh local produce or pick up a traditional souvenir of the island. During the summer season many districts hold night markets, which are good places to browse when the sun goes down. Some even have live craft demonstrations and musical entertainment, so you get a real flavour of the local culture.
Morning Markets
Night markets
Ciutadella – Friday & Saturday, Plaza del Born
Alaior - Wednesdays - July & August. Es Migjorn Gran - Tuesdays - July & August. Es Mercadal – Thursdays - July & August. Fornells – Saturday & Sunday, May to October. Mahón – Fridays, May to September, Plaza del Carme. Cala en Porter – Monday & Thursday, May to October.
Fish Market Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, sat Plaza del Mercat Mahón – Fish market, Plaza del Carme. Mahón– Tuesday & Saturday, Plaza de Esplanada. Alaior – Thursday. Sant Lluis – Monday.
Es Castell – Monday & Wednesday. Es Migjorn – Wednesday. Fornells – Thursday. Ferreries – Friday & Saturday. Es Mercadal - Friday.
Mercado de Ciutadella
Cales Fonts – Daily, June to September. Punta Prima – Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday. Ciutadella – Arts & Culture Fair Monday to Saturday - June to September - Costa Marina, Calle Pere Capllonc.
www.in2menorca.com
Menorcans welcome any tourists who want to join in with the fiesta celebrations, local businesses close, streets are blocked off and a street party ensues with horsemanship displays, parades of Giants from local and neighbouring towns, a carnival of colourful floats, food, drink and music, people of all ages, a funfair and on the last night a spectacular fireworks display! Catch one if you can…
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Fiesta Dates -2019
Fiestas
June 23 - 25
(Dates can be subject to change)
July 27 - 28
August 10 - 11
September 6 - 9
Ciutadella. Fiesta de
Fornells. Fiesta de
Alaior. Fiesta de Sant
Mahon. Fiesta del
Sant Joan
Sant Antoni
Llorenc
Verge de Gràcia
July 20 - 21
July 27 - 28
August 17 - 19
September 13 - 14
Es Mercadal. Fiesta de
Es Migjorn Gran..
Fiesta de Sant Climent
Es Mercadal - Fiesta
Sant Marti
Fiesta de Sant Cristòfol
August 23 - 25
de Sant Nicolau
July 24 - 26
August 3 - 4
Ferreries. Fiesta de
September 20 - 22
Es Castell.
Llumacanes. Fiesta de
Sant Bartomeu
Fiesta de Calan Porter
Festa de Sant Jaume
Sant Gaietà
August 23 - 25 Fiesta de Sant Lluis
www.in2menorca.
in2watersports
the
Watersports
Island
M
enorca is something of a mecca for watersports. That’s not so surprising as the island is surrounded by cr ystal clear waters, and edged with the most beautiful beaches and bays in the Med. Skiff and Laser sailing craft race around bays, traditional Menorcan Llaüts bob about in Calas, luxur y Yachts moor in harbours. You can enjoy Menorcan waters what-
“The widest possible choice of watersports are practiced here” ever your budget, they are without a doubt, accessible to all. And we are not just talking about boats. From windsurfing to waterskiing, kayaking and canoeing to scuba diving - the widest possible choice of watersports are practised here at ever y level of ability, from landlubber to gill breather. The best places to start are the three Nautical sports resorts (Estaciones Náuticas) of Ciutadella, Mahon and Fornells. Here you will find all the information you need, whether you are a professional or beginner. Punta Prima, Cavalleria and Son Bou (Menorca’s longest beach) have good surfing and body boarding waves.
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While the beaches of Cala Galdana, Son Parc and Arenal den Castell are ideal for Ribs, Jet skis and Waterskiing. So if you are looking for the perfect destination to take the plunge, or indulge in any outdoor activity, Menorca is the natural choice. There’s no doubt, you’ll be in your element!
“Beautiful bays and perfect sailing conditions. Sheer bliss.�
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Top tips for perfect Menorcan Holidays How do you make the most of your stay of the beautiful Balearic island of Menorca? It all depends on the kind of holiday you prefer. You’ve already chosen Menorca because of its unspoilt scenery and relaxed Mediterranean way of life, but there are so many things to see and do on this gem of an island that you are truly spoilt for choice.
There are dedicated cycle routes that will take through the spectacular heart of the island – even to the top of towering Monte Toro if you have the leg power and stamina. At least when you get to the top there’s a lovely little snack bar, a magnificent ancient monastery and jaw dropping 360 views.
There is literally something for everyone – to suit every flavour for the discerning holiday palate. Whatever floats your Menorcan Llaut, you are spoilt for choice.
sights & sounds
For instance, you can chill out in one of the many hidden calas (small bays) all around the island. They are often a rambling walk from main resorts and may only be accessible on foot. But they are always worth the effort for the amazing views and great bathing on offer (be warned – some locals swim and sunbathe here without the benefit of swimwear!). You can also follow the historic coastal footpath and nature trial that is the Cami De Cavalls, on foot or horseback. There are many viewing points and information stations along the way telling you all about the indigenous fauna and flora that inhabit each area.
If that seems a little too energetic, you can always spend a sunny afternoon discovering the hidden treasures that lie in the sleepy narrow streets of picturesque Menorcan towns of Ferreries, Mercadal and Alaior. Typical stores here are Bric-a-brac and furniture, leather goods and cheeses, fashion and jewellery. And at the large shopping centres at Mahon and Cuitadella on opposite end of the island, you can shop till you drop into a friendly local tapas bar for a light lunch, or visit an art gallery, an ancient church, an indoor or fresh fish market. It’s up to you.
www.in2menorca.com
Top tips for perfect Menorcan Holidays If wind and water are your sporting elements then you will love the windsurfing, Kayaking and Sailing on offer at Fornells Bay in the north of the island. But if it’s a good all fashioned lie-on-thebeach-and–soak-up-the-sun holiday that you are after then you will love the big beach resorts of of Son Bou, Sant Tomas, Calan Bosch and Arenal As for nightlife and dining out, you can’t do better than popping down to Calas Fonts overlooking the mouth of Mahon harbour. It boasts night markets, clothes shops and a host of restaurants serving every food from Chinese to Italian and traditional Menorca dishes and Tapas. Then, if you’re not too tired you might fancy dancing the night away at the famous Xoroi Caves nightly disco at Calan Porter.
sights & sounds
It’s set high up the face of a cliff with the most stunning seas views you will ever experience, and the scariest narrow footpath leading down the to entrance along the face of the cliff. So easy on the Vino! And if you are lucky enough for your stay to coincide with one of the many lively and colourful Menorcan Fiestas – then why not come along and join in the fun.
Be warned, they can be noisy and lively affairs. Especially during the usual Haleo horse parades, where experience Caballeros ‘walk’ thier splendidly adorned steeds on there hind legs to the delight of the whooping crowds. Not a place for your little ones, but adults and teenagers will love it. An experience to remember! But perhaps the best news about Menorca is that you don’t just have to choose one type of holiday. You can do it all during your stay. Menorca is quite a small island, just 22 miles across and 11 from top to bottom, so everything is within easy reach. It puts the best of all holidays right on your Villa or Hotel doorstep. So get your flight booked, your sun cream and snorkel packed, and get ready to make the most of Menorca.
www.in2menorca.com
Cala Macarella
Cala Macarellla - North Coast
Menorca has some of the best beaches in the Med and more than all the other Balearic islands put together. From rugged and rocky in the north to lush pine fringed in the south, from endless sands to secluded coves… you should easily find the perfect one for you. Here’s some of the best to get you started.
menorca beaches
North Coast Arenal d’en Castell - Gently curving bay of fine white sand and calm blue water popular with tourists, backed by large hotels and cafes offering plenty of services and refreshment. Perfect for families. Son Parc - Beautiful white sandy beach with shallow water - ideal for families with young children, sunworshippers and swimmers. The beach is backed by sand dunes, with a hotel and apartments on the hillside, and never feels overcrowded even in high season. This relaxed resort is home to the island’s only 18 hole golf course. Quieter coves Es Grau - This beach is good for young children due to the shallow water; offshore the small islet of illa d’en Colom, part of the marine reserve, is good for scuba diving and snorkelling. While behind the beach, through dunes and pine
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woods, is lake S’Albufera - the heart of Menorca’s biosphere reserve and a favourite spot for birdwatchers and ramblers. Off the beaten track Cala Pregonda - One of Menorca’s finest natural beaches, off the beaten track and accessed by a 30 minute walk from Binimel-la. A beautiful sandy bay with crystal waters, backed by pine and tamarisk woods. A favourite anchor point for chartered yachts looking for seclusion, worth the trek for the bay’s pinktinged rock formations at sunset. Cavalleria - A wide beach of unusually red sand, backed by rocky red earth cliffs, with crystal clear green water. Easily reached along a good road to a parking area, then on foot along a wooden walkway with spectacular views and steps leading down to the beach. Popular with locals who enjoy the skin softening properties of the sand here.
http://www.in2menorca.com/english%20pages/map-menorca. Menorca Map
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South Coast Punta Prima - A lovely crescent beach of fine white sand and turquoise water, popular with tourists and locals, views of the nearby Isla del Aire. Plenty of food and refreshments available in beachside cafes. Cala en Porter - One of the oldest holiday resorts on the island, with a fine sandy beach and steep cliffs either side. Tourist-friendly and good for families, with plenty of cafes, sun loungers, and pedadoes. A road train serves the beach from the resort centre. Son Bou - The longest beach in Menorca, a beautiful 3 km of white sand and shallow turquoise water where you can find a secluded place even in high summer. Popular with sun worshippers and families, and equipped with watersports and beach bars. The beach is backed by sand dunes and the second largest protected wetlands on the island. Santo Tomas - Picturesque resort with a long fine white sandy beach, backed by pine-clad hills dotted with villas. A well -manicured resort with a few hotels, and beach cafes at either end. A short walk along the coastal path will take you to the beach at Binigaus - unspoilt and very popular with locals. Cala Galdana - A beautiful horseshoe bay of fine white sand and shallow turquoise water. Tourist-friendly with hotels, restaurants, watersports, refreshments, sun loungers and a children’s playground. If you’re feeling adventurous, some of the island’s virgin beaches can also be reached from here via coastal footpaths.
Quieter coves Binibeca Playa - A pretty beach of fine white sand and shallow turquoise water, backed by pine trees, with sun loungers and a tiny beach bar on the rocks serving snacks and refreshments. A stroll along the coast will take you to the quaint village of Binibeca Vell - a popular tourist attraction. Binisafua - A small and picturesque inlet, with a white sandy beach and clear water, popular with locals. Good for snorkelling and swimming, and a popular anchoring point for small boats in summer. Alcaufar - Pretty rocky inlet with a small sandy beach, and a hotel with café serving food and refreshments. Off the beaten track Binidali - Tiny unspoilt cove with turquoise water, great for snorkelling and swimming and a popular anchoring point for chartered yachts. Access to the beach via a steep path, with gorgeous views. Cala Mitjana - Idyllic cove with white sand and turquoise water surrounded with pine clad hills. Accessed by car and on foot down a winding narrow track or by coastal footpath from Cala Galdana. No facilities so pack a picnic! Cala Macarellla and Macarelleta - Very picturesque pine fringed coves with turquoise sea accessed via a 45 min walk along a wooded path from Cala Galdana, or via country roads from Ciutadella. The subject of many picture postcards and well worth the effort. Cala en Turqueta - Very beautiful unspoilt beach with fine white sand and turquoise water. Access by car via country lanes from Ciutadella, and then on foot for 1km along a path from the parking area. Space can be limited as it is very busy at the height of summer, but worth visiting in any season.
Cala Pregonda - North Coast
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Whether you want to immerse yourself in activities, take in the culture, or relax and escape the crowds in your own little paradise, there is a place to stay just waiting for you that will form the heart of your holiday.
where to stay
Menorca offers a truly excellent choice of accommodation - from magnificent 4 and 5 star hotels with spa facilities, to the small but perfectly reformed agrotourism (boutique) hotels. Then there are the well-manicured resort complexes with stylish apartments. But, for a really relaxing and independent holiday, you can’t beat hiring you own private villa. They often come complete with pool, are set in stunning locations, and offer you a break of perfect tranqulity with a taste of laid back luxury. Highly recommended! Interactive Map: Click> http://www.in2menorca.com/english%20pages/map-menorca.html
Villas and Apartments
www.menorcaxpress.com
https://www.menorcahabitat.com/en/ https://www.menorcahabitat.com/en/ https://www.menorcahabitat.com/en/ https://www.menorcahabitat.com/en/
http://www.bartleholidays.co.uk/
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in2 Sailing? Kayaking? Wind surfing? If you can do it on the water, Menorca is your perfect playground. With wide bays, hidden coves, and marinas all around the island, plus every kind of craft, equipment and expert training for hire, you will be in your element. Skiff and Laser sailing craft race around bays, traditional Menorcan LlaĂźts bob about in Calas, luxury Yachts moor in harbours. You can enjoy Menorcan waters whatever your budget, they are without a doubt, accessible to all.
on the water
Did you know? There are no waves in Fornells Bay. This makes it ideal for learning to windsurf and other water sports. With so many unspoilt calas and coves, they say it is possible to sail around Menorca several times and still find a new place to anchor for lunch. Every year Menorca hosts a series of national and international regattas and events, including the colourful Period Boats and the prestigious Sant Joan Regatta.
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Top tips
There are sightseeing boat tours at Mahon harbour, Fornells, Cala Galdana and Ciutadella, and many feature underwater viewing. They are run at regular daily intervals. You can charter a yacht with skipper and crew for a day or half-day cruise, lunch included. Fun for all on board.
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under the waves
Menorca is a UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve surrounded by crystal clear turquoiseblue seas. That’s why Marine life thrives here, and why it’s the perfect place for underwater activities. Travel through the many undersea caves and canyons on a ‘sub aqua safari’ with one of the well-equipped and expertly staffed diving centres throughout the island. If you are a beginner, you can test the water with a lesson or try-dive. Or for sheer relaxing delight, simply snorkel among Menorca’s many rocky coves.
Did you know? The Coral Galleries is an amazing three level cavern filled with natural light. It features the wreck site of French man-o-war “La Laurette” sunk in 1883 complete with cannon and musket balls. There are several wrecks dating from Roman times situated near the mouth of the port of Ciutadella. In 1996 Menorca played host to the World Underwater Photography Championships.
i Top tips A try-dive is often the best way to find out if scuba diving is for you. Most good diving centres will offer them and you can also hire all the equipment, wet suits, air tanks etc... For snorkeling, Buy a good quality face mask as it will afford clarity of vision, and there’s so much to see under the waves in Menorca. If you’re lucky you may even spot a starfish, octopus or ray.
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dining out
Whether it’s a tasty lunchtime bite or a gourmet evening meal, you will find a feast of fine eating establishments to suit your palate and your pocket in Menorca. From traditional to nouvelle, the cuisine offered at town, harbour, country restaurants and at quality hotels, is of the highest standard – particularly fish and meat dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. All are perfectly complemented with a bottle of fine Menorcan wine.
Did you know ? Mayonnaise celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2006. Legend has it a French nobleman named it in honour of his lover who came from Mahon. At Hort Sant Patrici in Ferreries, you can view the wine production and sample the wines, there is also a Cheese museum where you can sample and find out about traditional Menorcan methods of cheese making.
www.in2menorca.com
i Top Tips Try the local specialities such as Caldereta de Langosta (lobster stew) a favourite treat of King Juan Carlos when he visits the island. Look out for Gallo de San Pedro, Dorada (sea bream), Lubina (sea bass) all delicious. Sample tasty desserts made from traditional recipes using Mahon cheese, gin or figs, and Ensaimadas [spiral pastries] or Armargas [almond cakes].
You like sports with balls? You’re on to a winner in Menorca. There are plenty of clubs and centres on the island where you can whack a tennis ball, thwack a cricket ball, sink a hole in one, or bowl a wood. And don’t forget the beach - perfect for everything from a kick around to an organised volleyball competition. Just take your pick, bat, racquet or club for whatever balls you’re in2.
bat & ball
Did you know ? You will often see older Menorcan villagers enjoying a leisurely game of Petanca. It is much like the French game of Boules. Basketball is the number one professional team sport in Menorca. The Vive Menorca team are stars of the National League. Golf Son Parc is the only Meditterranean golf course to be located in a Unesco Biosphere Reserve.
i Top tips If cricket is your game then Menorca should be just your cup of tea as it has its very own Cricket Ground at Sant Lluis complete with Clubhouse and Bar. With weekly matches throughout the summer, everyone is welcome. You’ll find tennis courts at public centres and clubs all around the island. Court fees are very reasonable. Try those at Malbuger, Alaior, or Sant Lluis and at many of the resort hotels across the island.
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Red Kite
birds & beasts
Menorca is a designated Biosphere Reserve and a haven to wildlife. For instance, Son Bou has a large protected wetland that sees a huge variety of migratory and local birds - from Crested Cormorants to Marbled Ducks. Rare species like the Black Lizard and Dragonmouth plant thrive on the Isla del Rey, and on your travels you may well see a Red Kite, Honey Buzzard or Booted Eagle wheeling overhead.
Did you know ? At the festival of Sant Antoni, locals bring their pets to the Priest for a public blessing. Dogs, cats, birds, horses, ferretts - goldfish! There is a large indigenous population of spurthighed Tortoises living wild in Menorca. There are no foxes on Menorca. Strangely, there is a healthy rabbit population. Could there be a connection?
i Top tips Take a leisurely stroll around a resort’s quieter areas and you may be rewarded with the sight of a brightly coloured Hoopoe searching the hedgerows for lunch. The natural park S’Albufera D’Es Grau is the heart of the Biosphere Reserve and a favourite spot for birdwatchers and ramblers. Walking routes will take you past wild olive woods, and fresh and saltwater lagoons, habitats of both migratory and native birds.
www.in2menorca.com
Did you know ? We are told that some locals smear their bodies with the unusually red coloured sand at Cala Cavalleria. Then lie in the sun until it bakes dry. They claim it is wonderful for the skin. The world’s oldest man came from Menorca. Joan Riudavets died at the ripe old age of 114 in 2004, from natural causes.
Top tips
& soul the Water - SOBREbody Del Mar
body & soul
Holiday’s are good for your health, especially in Menorca. On this laid back island in perfect harmony with nature you will find plenty of places to relax your mind and massage your body. From a spot of beach jogging or yoga to hotels offering beauty treatments, holistic therapies, saunas and health spas,… everything from the conventional to new age.
Wherever you go, always take plenty of bottled water, especially on the beach in summer. Regular sips are better than long drinks for good hydration. There are good Health and Beauty Spa’s in many main towns and also in resorts within Spa hotels in Mahon, Ciutadella, Cala Galdana, Punta Prima and Son Xoriguer.
map of Menorca
Villages Poblaciones Main road Carretera principal Secondary road Carretera secundaria Lane Camino asfaltado Developments Urbanizaciones Lane Camino de carro Walking Senderismo Cycle routes Itinerario para bicicletas
Information Información Red Cross Cruz Roja Airport Aeropuerto Petrol Station Gasolinera Lighthouse Faro Panoramic view Vista panorámica Diving centre Centro de buceo Kayak Kayac Excursions by boat Excursiones marítimas Windsurf and sailing Vela ligera y windsurf Yacht club Club náutico Area with boating services Zona con servicios náuticos Water Sports Centre Estación Naútica Golf Golf Tennis Tenis Natural Park Centre Centro del Parque Natural Horse shows Espectáculos ecuestres Horseriding Excursiones a caballo Horse clubs Clubes hípicos Hippodrome Hipódromo Defence towers Torres de defensa Quarry Canteras Naveta Archaelogical settlement Monumentos Early Ch. Church Basílica paleocristiana Hermitage Ermita Beaches in tourist or urban centres. Playas en núcleo turístico o urbano.
http://www.villacars.es/index_en.php
Non-urban beaches with access by road (parking areas can be quite a distance from the sea). Playas no urbanas con acceso rodado (el aparcamiento puede encontrarse a cierta distancia del mar). Non-urban beaches with pedestrian or maritime access only. No services. Playas no urbanas con acceso exclusivamente peatonal o marítimo. Servicios inexistentes.
Exploring is one of the most exciting aspects of Menorca. By car, bike , on foot or horseback, you will find that there is something waiting around every corner of this delightful island. Ancient Hill Forts and pretty Churches, Art Galleries and Museums, Bronze Age Sites, Windmills, Historic Buildings and Monuments, and more beaches than all the other Balearic Islands put together. All ready and waiting for you to discover.
sights & sounds
Did you know ? A beer drinking, card playing ghost is said to haunt Menorca’s historic Fort Marlborough. A case of high spirits? Menorca has the largest concentration of prehistoric sites (over 1000) in the world. Many from the Talaiotic period (2000 – 123 bc). 2011 sees the 300 yr anniversary celebration of the first British Naval Hospital to be built overseas, on the Isla del Rey, or bloody island, as it was known.
i Top tips Special MP3 players can be used to follow itineraries around Mahon, Ciutadella and sites of cultural importance. Packed with historical facts and interesting info, they can be hired from Tourist Centres. Well worth experiencing, the Cova den Xoroi, on the edge of the resort of Cala en Porter, is a must see. By day take in the spectacular cliffside views, by night experience the most unique club venue.
www.in2menorca.com
There are so many interesting places to explore and so much breathtaking scenery to enjoy around Menorca, you’ve just got to get out and see it. On foot - there are some really outstanding pathways and coastal trails. On wheels – a bike or hire car will take you to some fabulous secret coves off the tourist track. Or see Menorca up close and personal on horseback.
walks & rides
Did you know? When the Tramontana wind is really blowing Menorcans go to Faro de Favaritx to watch the spectacular waves.
i Top tips The Camí d’en Kane track is an ideal sightseeing route for bikes, and most cycle routes are well signposted.
The VII Volta International 3 day challenge of Menorca has become a prestigious annual race attracting top cyclists from all over the world. It is usually held in October.
Walk the coastal path from Punta Prima to the headland Watch Tower at Alcaufar. It is the first part of Spain to see the sunrise.
The Cami de Cavalls coastal path which surrounds the island was originally created to be followed on horseback.
There are many excellent riding schools and pony trekking centres located near the main towns across the island, particularly Ferreries and Ciutadella.
www.in2menorca.com
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Some Popular Walks
➲ Migjorn Gran - Binigaus (appx 1h): Winding trail that passes an ancient cave open to the public .
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..Official Cycle Routes
➲ Ciutadella - Ferreries 16.5km appx 2h ➲ Ferreries - Es Mercadal 15.5km appx 1h 35m
➲ Son Parc - Cala Pudent (appx 20 mins): Coastal headland path walk down to a delightful sandy bay.
➲ Es Mercadal - Alaior 7. 7km appx 45m
➲ Santo Tomás - Son Bou (appx 1h): Scenic walk along official coastal path.
➲ Mahon - Es Castell 8km appx 45m
➲ Alaior - Mahon 12km appx 1h 15m
➲ Es Castell - Sant Lluis 6km appx 30m
➲ Punta Prima - Alcaufar Tower (la Torre de Alcaufar) (appx 30 mins): Charming coastal path. ➲ Cala Galdana - Cala Macarella (appx 40 mins
www.in2menorca.com
Liz Spooner
arts & venues
Menorca has always inspired Art. On canvas, in clay, and on camera, through dance and music. The light and the scenery just cry out to be captured and expressed. That’s why the island attracts so many artists - groups and individuals, professional and enthusiast. And it’s beauty isn’t confined to the summer season. In fact, the spring, autumn and winter see the island in a stunning array of moods, shades and colours.
Did you know ? The magnificently restored Teatro Principal at Mahon, first built in 1829, is the oldest Opera House in Spain. The Jazz Club at the Casino, Sant Climent is internationally renown, with regular jazz nights throughout the summer season. At the Artesenal Centre of Menorca in Mercadal, you will find exhibitions of traditional Menorcan crafts.
i Top tips If you want to paint land or seascapes,
Autumn is a good season to choose. The sunlight takes on a soft golden quality which makes the lovely greens and blues really vibrant - even in the middle of the day.
You can catch an open air concert or film
at the indoor market down at the Claustre del Carme in Mahon. The building surrounds a large square where the events take place.
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useful information
Tourist Enquiry Helpline - Información turística 902 92 90 15 Emergencies Police, Ambulance, Fire, Rescue - Emergenias Tel. 112
Airport General Enquiries- Aeropuerto 971 15 7049 Radio Taxi: 971 36 71 11 Chemists - Farmacias Normal shop hours – 9 till 1.30 and 5 till 8.30 The one at the Airport is open all day 9am to 9pm in the summer
Post Offices - Oficinas de correos One in each town, open mornings.
En todos los pueblos. Main offices - Mahon C/Buen Aire 15 - Ciutadella Plaza del Born 5 open 9am-9pm. Stamps can be bought at a tobacconist or Estanco. Post boxes are bright yellow and display collection times.
Hospital
Mahon - Hospital Mateu Orfila, 24 hr emergencies (urgencies) Ronda Malbuger No 1 971 48 70 00
There are also Medical Centres centros médicos in every main resort. Red Cross – Cruz Roja
Mahon - 971 36 11 80 Ciutadella - 971 38 19 93 The Cruz Roja operate on all main resort beaches
National Police 091 Guardia Civil 062 LocalPolica/Fire Brigade 092 Medical Emergencies Speed Limits Major Roads Urban Streets Residential Areas
90 km 50 km 20 km
Remember. In Menorca you drive on the right.
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