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This Lesser-known Island in Spain Has Become a Go-to for Stylish European Travelers — Here's How to Plan Your Trip

Europe’s style set has arrived on sleepy, low-key Menorca, drawn by a cluster of chic farm stays, a high-profile art gallery — and some of the best beaches in the Balearics.

TRANS-WORLD PHOTOS/PREMIUM STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY GMBH/ALAMY

In the late-afternoon shade on the terrace at Santa Ponsa , my family and I became transfixed by two identical, parrot-like birds with tangerine breasts and bright-green backs in a cage next to our table. They popped out from their little house and hopped onto a swing, where they began rubbing beaks and chattering away to one another.

“They are called ‘ Les Inséparables ,’ ” the waiter said as he poured our iced lemonade. “Lovebirds, originally from North Africa.” 

From left: From left: Karel Balas/Courtesy of Menorca Experimental; Yann Deret/Courtesy of Fonteneille

Though the two could surely tell they were far from home, there is a distinctly Moorish feel to the gardens of this luxuriously restored 17th-century farmhouse hotel a few miles from Menorca’s southeastern coast . Looking out across the stone walkways that crisscrossed the sunken terraced gardens, with their lemon, orange, pomegranate, and fig trees, my husband, Nicolas, and our two kids, 10-year-old Louis and eight-year-old Audrey, wondered out loud whether the lovebirds would be quite so happy together if they didn’t live in such a romantic setting. 

Santa Ponsa’s confluence of styles reflects the many nations and powers that have influenced this Balearic island over the centuries. The finca’s façade is painted Menorca’s classic “English red,” a shade designed to look like brickwork. And yet, with its white trim and signage, the building is more reminiscent of an Argentinean estancia. The excellent restaurant, Nura, is presided over by a Catalan chef, Oriol Sola Pagés, while the interiors — a mix of velvet, rattan, and potted palms — would make any well-heeled Parisian feel at home. 

Daniel Schaefer/Courtesy of The Estate of Eduardo Chillida and Hauser & Wirth

Once the summer home of a wealthy family from Mahón, the island’s capital, Santa Ponsa was sold to farmers in the late 19th century and eventually fell into dereliction, like many handsome houses on the island. Thanks to Parisian hoteliers Guillaume Foucher and Frédéric Biousse, who used to vacation on Menorca and bought the property in 2015, the finca has undergone a lavish restoration. Biousse, who formerly worked in fashion, and Foucher, who was a gallerist, are the creative force behind Les Domaines de Fontenille, a hospitality brand with 11 properties in France, Italy, and Spain, including two on Menorca­ — Santa Ponsa and the neighboring Torre Vella , both of which opened in 2019. 

Menorca is quietly unassuming, yet in my view the true beauty of Spain’s four Balearic Islands. It’s often overlooked by those who don’t know better — and cherished by those who do. Thanks to rigid preservation laws, its pristine coast has been spared the high-rise buildings you’ll find elsewhere in the Balearics; here, new development is only permitted in the agricultural interior. Those who like their beaches wild and rugged will be drawn to the north, with its pine-fringed rocky coves, but if, like my children, you like to spend hours paddling in gin-clear shallows, the golden beaches of the southeast are a must-visit.

Karel Balas/Courtesy of Menorca Experimental

Still, compared with brash Mallorca and wild-child Ibiza and its tiny, sceney sibling Formentera, Menorca can at first glance seem a little lacking in vibe. That began to change in 2021, when the international art firm Hauser & Wirth opened a gallery on the small island of Illa del Rei, a short ferry ride from Mahón. Since then a new international crowd has descended. At around the same time, a clutch of understated hideaways has popped up among the olive groves of the island’s unspoiled southeast, each perfectly pitched to appeal to an art-lover’s eye for authenticity and design.

Of Domaines de Fontenille’s two Menorcan hotels, Santa Ponsa is the more upscale, with a subterranean Susanne Kaufmann spa and two swimming pools. Close to the beaches of Son Bou and Santo Tomas, Torre Vella, constructed around a 15th-century lookout tower, has a more simple, pared-back feel. But while the signage is rustic and the pathways are dusty, the whitewashed bungalows conceal plush suites, many with private plunge pools and swing seats; an outdoor pool and yoga area are hidden behind pampas grass. 

From left: Nathalie Carnet/Courtesy of Fontenille; Yann Deret/Courtesy of Fontenille

After a quick transfer from Santa Ponsa to Torre Vella, we sat down to a lunch of Menorcan sheep-milk cheese and slivers of jamón, accompanied by a crisp rosé from the hoteliers’ vineyard in France. Next came a sublime sunset dip off the almost two-mile sandy beach at Son Bou. We dined in one of the property’s courtyards while bullfrogs chirped under a crescent moon. 

But the highlight of our stay came the next morning. If you, like me and my family, live for a sumptuous breakfast buffet, you’ll lose your mind at Torre Vella. Louis and Audrey made several trips to a giant central wooden table laden with cookies, brownies, and an orange-almond cake, still warm from the oven. Nicolas attacked a vast chorizo with a spoon, while I focused on a board of Menorcan cheeses and a bowl of grated tomatoes to be spread on sourdough bread, in true Catalan style. 

Marta Perez/Courtesy of Torralbenc

Our next stop was Menorca Experimental , less than a mile away. A sign indicating agriturismo took us through olive groves to a gracious 19th-century finca surrounded by extensive gardens. It did not look like any agriturismo I had ever been to — a fact confirmed when we walked into the reception area, with its display of fashion-forward jewelry, which sat alongside a four-foot urn and pedestal woven entirely from straw. 

The Paris-based Experimental Group, which began by launching cocktail bars and has since expanded to hotels in hot spots like Ibiza, Venice, and Verbier, in the Swiss Alps, has a playful, sophisticated aesthetic; the Menorca outpost, which quietly opened in 2019, is no exception. Designer Dorothée Meilichzon, who conceived the 43-room property to resemble an artist’s vacation cottage, took inspiration from the works of Miró, Dalí, and Picasso to create a colorful abstract language throughout the hotel. 

Yann Deret/Courtesy of Fontenille

With a palette of terra-cotta, pale pink, blue, and cream — carried through to the ceramics and textiles by the Moroccan studio lrnce — the feel is inventive, and seriously cool. Our fellow guests were similarly fashionable, mixing DIY Tom Collinses with Xoriguer gin from Mahón to the sounds of a tasteful — yet surprisingly loud — playlist at the bar that evening. I worried that children would not be welcome, but was relieved to see a bunch of bronzed, barefoot kids running around the grounds while their parents made merry. 

We dined in the hotel’s boutique, where tables had been laid out. Nicolas and the children concentrated on their char-grilled steaks; my attention was drawn away from my sea-bass ceviche to a pair of lrnce sandals winking at me from the shelf. 

After another extraordinary breakfast, we piled into the car for the 20-minute journey to our final stay, Torralbenc , the oldest of this new wave of hotels and in many ways the most grown-up. Set in another converted farm, Torralbenc’s golden-hued stone buildings nestle into the landscape unobtrusively, save for the odd splash of crimson bougainvillea growing on a wall. The place is so quiet that even by the side of the saltwater pool, all you can hear is the hum of bees in the lavender bushes. I discouraged my children from dive-bombing. 

Bought by a Basque family in 2005, Torralbenc opened as a hotel in 2013, and pioneered the idea of the luxury rural bolt-hole on Menorca — while setting a high bar for sustainability. Throughout the 27-room property, there are no single-use plastics: shower caps are made from repurposed potato skins, slippers from bamboo. Its 35-acre vineyard has been making wine since 2016, and the chef sources all produce locally, from the creamy farm yogurt to the fish from the market in Mahón. 

Under a bamboo canopy, we chatted with a French couple who had checked in for a week while waiting for the renovations to be completed on their new finca. The island, they told us, is fast becoming the second-home spot of choice for well-heeled French families who have given up on the Côte d’Azur. 

As the sun disappeared between the olive trees, we sipped Bodegas Torralbenc’s blackberry-inflected Merlot and discussed the best places to buy espadrilles in Mahón. And just like that, I found myself dreaming about a finca of my own.  

A version of this story first appeared in the August 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Blue-sky Thinking."

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Sep 24, 2020 • 6 min read

Menorca, the easternmost of Spain’s Balearic Islands, has a fierce commitment to sustainability. Here's how it has approached low-key, responsible tourism.

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Menorca and beyond

The Ultimate Menorca Travel Guide

Whatever your holiday interests, in this Menorca travel guide you will find everything you need to know for an enjoyable stay on the second largest of the Balearic Islands.

Having noted the tourist development of its busier neighbours of Mallorca and Ibiza, Menorca has taken a different route. All its economic development is based on minimum disturbance t o the island’s environment and nature.

In recognition of this work, in 1993, the island was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve to maintain and safeguard its heritage while developing its tourist economy. A plan it fiercely protects to this day.

Not only that, Menorca is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a true open-air archaeological museum with over 1,500 prehistoric Talayotic Culture sites.

My favourite of the Balearic Islands , Menorca sits basking in the west Mediterranean sunshine, and is an island that attracts all ages and holiday preferences.

Sparkling blue sea s, warm sunshine and child-friendly powder sand beaches draw young families and those looking for relaxing beach holidays. 

In contrast, its lush green interior, sleepy villages, bustling towns, nature reserves, archaeological sites and enticing cuisine, offer culture seekers plenty to see, do and enjoy on their days and evenings out.

Certainly, you can enjoy a late-night pint or a little karaoke in the summer months, but Menorca has deliberately steered away from attracting large groups of 18/30 party people. 

They prefer instead to cater for singles, couples, and young and older families who enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere . Visitors who arrive not just to enjoy the bars, but the beaches, coast, countryside and heritage of this beautiful island.

So, without further ado, welcome to my version of the ultimate Menorca travel guide.

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Menorca

Winter – October through April:

• Menorca is often classified as a ‘seasonal’ holiday island, with many bars, restaurants and attractions in the main resorts closing from mid October to April. Nonetheless, if your holiday preferences aren’t all about suntans and sea, a visit during this period will provide a whole new experience.
• Accommodation is often cheaper, but the big plus, for me at least, is the relaxing tranquillity – far fewer tourists . I can stroll the towns and villages at my own pace, enjoy scenic walks (in a warm jacket) on the almost deserted beaches, and browse the shops, bars and restaurants at my leisure.
• Average temperatures from December through February are a mild 50F to 60F (10C to 15C) with eight to ten hours of daylight.

Low season – May through June, and September – October:

• With accommodation often cheaper than high season, May, June and September and mid October are popular visitor times with older families, senior citizens and short break visitors.
• In May, many facilities are re-opening, and beaches are getting busy, with average temperatures around 25C.

High season – mid-July and August:

• Busy, busy. But not as busy as Mallorca or Ibiza. The kids have broken up from school, and university students begin to party away their gap year.
• Young groups and families enjoy this period, with daily temperatures around the mid to high thirty centigrade.

How much time do you need for your holiday in Menorca

How much time you need will depend very much on your holiday plans. On your first stay you may want to get an idea of what this enchanting island has to offer, with a view to future visits.

In this case, a seven-day break will allow you to combine beautiful beaches with exploring some of the countryside, archeological sites, villages and towns at a reasonably leisurely pace.

Consider hiring a car or using guided tours to make the most of your time.

How to get to Menorca

Several airlines fly direct to Menorca’s Mahon Airpor t from various national and international airports. Mahon Airport is just 4.5km outside the city of Mahon and is the only airport in Menorca.

Ferries to the island are available from Valencia, Barcelona and Mallorca in Spain, and Toulon from France.

How to get to your hotel or resort from the Airport

If there’s one thing I like more than a relaxing, hassle-free flight, it’s a relaxing, hassle-free transfer from the airport to my hotel or resort complex.

Transfer options from Mahon Airport include metered airport taxis, shuttle buses to a limited number of resort complexes, resort shuttles, public buses , hire cars and a range of private hire vehicles.

Public buses

With line L10 Maó-Aeroport, you can reach the bus station in less than 10 minutes. The frequency changes in summer and winter, but, in general, there are 1-2 buses per hour. The ticket costs 2,75 euros.

Once at the bus station, you can take another bus to your destination. The lines and schedules of Menorca’s buses vary depending on the season. 

Check fares and schedules here: https://menorca.tib.org/es/autobus

Airport Taxi

If you’re staying in Mahon City, an airport taxi will do the journey in around 10 minutes, average cost less than €20. To other destinations such as Fornells €40, Cala Galdana €50 and Ciutadella €60.

Resort Shuttle or Private Hire

For transfers to beach resorts and destinations further out, consider pre-booking a resort shuttle or private hire vehicle to meet your requirements (number of people, baggage, etc). You can book online, and, if you choose private hire, an English-speaking driver will meet you at the arrivals exit.

If you intend to tour the island, pre-book your airport hire car online prior to your trip for the best deals, and to ensure you have a vehicle waiting at the airport.

Getting around on your holiday

If you’re staying on one of Menorca’s beach resort complexes and want a day away from the sand and sea, your transport options are.

Metered taxi: You will only find registered taxis in Menorca; no private cabs or Uber operate on the island. Cabs are white, signed and metered and can be flagged down or found on taxi ranks around your resort.

You can also book a taxi by phone or online:   https://www.taxismenorca.com

Public Transport: Buses from the towns and resort areas are a good, cheap and reliable way to get around. Enquire at your resort information office which route number you need to get to where you want to be.

More info: https://menorca.tib.org/es/autobus

Car Rental: All resort complexes and hotels have car hire facilities where they can organise a rental for a day (or longer). Or you can book one online, which may well be cheaper. In the high season try to book it well in advance.

Costs range from around €13/day for economy, €16/day for intermediate and €50+/day for a premium model in low season. In high season prices skyrocket.

For the younger generation or old bikers, motorbikes and scooters are also available for hire if you still enjoy the feeling of wind in your hair.

Where to stay

A Menorca travel guide wouldn’t be a travel guide without highlighting places to stay. In this section, I’ve selected different areas where you may prefer to book an apartment, aparthotel, hotel or villa.

Beach resorts:

• If the sand and sea are your ideal holiday preferences, then you’re spoilt for choice in Menorca. With some of the best beach resorts of the four islands, you can choose from: Cala ‘n Bosch – Cala ‘n Porter – Cala Galdana – Punta Prima – Arenal den Castell – Son Bou – Santo Tomas – Son Park and Cala en Blanes.
• A few of the most popular: Son Bou has one of the longest beaches on the island. Cala Galdana sits in a picturesque horseshoe bay. 
• And if you want the best of both worlds (city and beach), Cala den Bosch is close to the city of Ciutadella and Cala en Porter is close to Mahon.

Country and Rural Retreats:

• Why not enjoy a romantic spring break in the Menorcan countryside? Hotel pool, first-class restaurant, blissfully quiet with country or coastal walks and plenty of hiking and biking trails. If this is you, check out Menorca Rural Hotels to get a real taste of local culture.

Towns and cities:

• Be close to all the amenities in Mahon or Ciutadella : shops, businesses, markets, attractions, bars and restaurants. Choose from boutique hotels – Airbnb – guest houses – hostels – economy hotels – adult-only hotels – 5-star luxury hotels or sumptuous villas.

Read my guide about accommodation and best areas in Menorca: Where to stay in Menorca

Best beaches in Menorca

There are over 100 beaches spread around Menorca . 

Many are large white or gold sand resort beaches with all facilities. Others have retained much of their natural ruggedness with the barest of essentials, while others are known as virgin beaches. Still as nature intended, and only reachable by boat or a tough walk through the countryside.

The north is more rugged and sparse , with darker cliffs and beaches that tend to have coarser, golden sand rather than the white powder sand of the south . Both coasts have beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Along the South Coast:

• Son Bou – Cala Galdana – Santo Tomás – Cala en Porter – Binibeca – Punta Prima – Cala Macarella – Cala Mitjana – Cala Blanca – Cala Turqueta – Cala Escorxada – Cala Fustam – Cala Trebaluger.

My favourites: Binibeca, white sand beach, clear turquoise waters with a nearby snack bar and restaurant, Cala en Porter , stunning white sand beach with restaurant and a couple of bars encircled by cliffs and pine forest, and Cala Turqueta , on the south-west coast. Close to Ciutadella and easy to reach by car, taxi or bus. Beautiful white sand and clear blue waters.

Along the North Coast:

• Cala Pregonda – Cala Tortuga – Cala Viola – Cala Mica – Cala Pilar – Arenal d´en Castell – Son Parc – Cavalleria – La Vall

My favourite: Cala Pregonda . Golden sand, azure blue waters and fabulous views. Untouched (almost) by human hand, so be sure to take snacks and drinks.

Read also: Best beaches in Menorca

What to see and do in Menorca

To give you an idea of what life in magical Menorca is like away from the beaches, I have tried to include things to see and do in the towns, villages, and nature parks.

I have included viewpoints for the photographers, and pointed you in the direction of o ld fortresses, lighthouses and prehistoric monuments.

For the foodies , I have mentioned some of my favourite bars, restaurants and local dishes you can enjoy that make up the famous Mediterranean diet.

Pay a visit to Menorca’s capital Mahon

Who doesn’t like exploring ancient cities in the warm Mediterranean sunshine? Mahon was founded as far back as 200 BC and became the island’s capital in the early 1700s.

Besides its narrow streets, squares, and historical buildings, it has the longest natural harbour in Europe at over five kilometres. 

Along its wide harbour promenade , you will find chandlery stores, businesses, shops and bars, with several of Mahon’s most popular eateries and seafood restaurants open till late evening. You can also enjoy a number of boat trips around the harbour and further afield.

Other places to explore around Mahon include the Trepuco , a prehistoric Talayotic settlement on the city outskirts, La Mola Fortress guarding the harbour, the Museum of Menorca and for the walkers, the Cami de Cavalls, a 116-mile (186km) hiking trail offering stunning views of the island’s coastline.

Read also: Best things to do in Mahon

Menorca’s most beautiful city – Ciutadella

Ciutadella was Menorca’s major port city and capital until the British gave that honour to Mahon in 1722.

Like Mahon, it is a tight, compact city, ideal for leisurely exploring on foot. And like Mahon, it has a picturesque harbour where you can browse the shops and businesses, before picking a table at one of the numerous bars and restaurants, or booking a harbour boat trip.

Other places to enjoy in Ciutadella include Plaza des Born , the city’s main square with its many historical buildings close by, including the Theatre des Born, t he Salort Palace, the Torre Saura Palace and the San Francisco Church.

The Cathedral of Menorca , the Convent of Saint Augustine, the Olive Grove House and the Local Fish Market are all easily reached.

Read also: Best things to do in Ciutadella

Head for Menorca’s favourite fishing villages

While cities have their own historical elegance, there’s a certain something about traditional fishing villages that seems to take you back in time, and Menorca has a number. You just have to find them.

Binibeca Vell:

• Sitting on the northeast coast, around one kilometre from the beach of the same name, Binibeca Vell is a popular visitor attraction with its traditional fishing boats, small harbour and whitewashed cottages. It also has a few letting apartments for those longer stays.

Fornells Village:

• Another pretty north-coast village. Pleasant harbour, whitewashed apartments and an island-wide reputation for its seafood restaurants and famous lobster stew.

Es Grau Village:

• Is situated at the northern end of the east coast with the S’Albufera des Grau nature reserve to the rear. Semi-secluded and unspoilt , it has three bars and a waterfront restaurant.

Visit the Tombs and Prehistoric Monuments of Menorca’s Talayotic Period

With over 1500 Talayotic sites dotted across Menorca, professional and amateur archaeologists from across the globe arrive to study these prehistoric sites and artefacts – and you can too.

Most sites comprise Taules, the T shape made by balancing one large stone block across the top of another and are thought to have some spiritual significance, Talayots , defensive towers and look-out points, and Navetas , known to have been communal burial tombs.

Some of the best examples can be found at:

• The Trepuco Settlement – Two kilometres outside Mahon
• Biniai Nou, Megalithic Burial Site – five kilometres outside Mahon
• Taula of Torralba d’en Salord – Talayotic village located between Mahón and Alaior
• The Settlement of Talatí de Dalt –  close to Mahon
• The Necropolis of Calescoves – Calascoves Beach
• The Naveta des Tudons – close to Ciutadella
• The Taula de Torretrencada – also close to Ciutadella
• The Torre d’en Galmés – the best-known and largest Talayotic settlement

There are numerous ways to visit the sites, including organised tours, public transport, taxis, or hiring a car.

For the twitchers and nature lovers

The Island of Menorca’s biosphere comprises a nature park, five nature reserves, a marine reserve and nineteen nature areas of special interest. With the jewel in the crown being the Albufera des Grau Natural Park.

The Albufera des Grau Natural Park: Covering over 5,000 hectares in the island’s northeast, it contains several fincas run by Menorcan artisans producing traditional products, wetlands, numerous hides for bird watching, forest and a two-kilometre-long lagoon.

Guided tours are available to see megalithic buildings , Roman artefacts, forests, fields and cliffs. And of course the wildlife and birds.

Ornithologists flock here year-round to spot resident and migrating species that arrive to feed and breed in the park, such as cormorants, fish eagles, herons, common coot, whistling duck, royal duck, vultures, peregrine falcons, kite and numerous wading species.

For the Photographers – Some of the Island’s Best Viewpoints

Whether standing on the peak of a mountain, clifftop, high hill, minaret or a rooftop terrace, the surrounding views are often breathtaking. Menorca has incredible viewpoints , and I’ve picked out four to give you a taste of what to expect.

Mount Toro:

• Sitting in the middle of the island and with the 1670 convent and sanctuary dedicated to Nuestra Señora de Monte Toro on its summit, it is one of Menorca’s most important spiritualist structures.
• It is also the highest point on the island, at 365m above sea level . From the car park, it is a ten-minute hike to the top and provides stunning 360° views of the island.

Cavalleria Lighthouse:

• Located atop cliffs on the north coast, Menorca’s oldest lighthouse was built in 1857. At over 100m above sea level , it provides striking photo opportunities of the island’s rugged north coast. From the car park it is an easy ten-minute walk to the clifftop.

Macarelleta Viewpoint:

• Sitting in the district of Ferreries on the south coast, the viewpoint is reached with a therty-minute walk from Cala Galdana. It is a clifftop viewpoint, and the views looking down into the bays are exceptional.

Cala Morell Viewpoint:

• Located on the west coast close to Ciutadella. This viewpoint is not so much about height but more about sunsets , and is a lovely setting to enjoy a cocktail or cold beer as you get that perfect sunset shot. Access is easy from the car park.

Water sports for the whole family

Although the island focuses very much on its marine environment, you can still find plenty of places to enjoy a wide range of water sports , from paddle boarding to kayaking, jet-skiing, scuba diving, and sailing.

Most of the popular resort beaches offer water sports,have pedalos and boards for hire, and a number hire out scuba gear. One of the most popular places to practice water sports is Fornells.

Here, you can practice an extensive range of water sports for adults and kids, including paddle boarding, kayaking, dingy sailing, and windsurfing .

Hike the Cami de Cavalls

The Camí de Cavalls in Menorca is a scenic coastal path stretching 185 kilometers, encircling the entire island. This ancient trail offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and adventure. Originally established for defense purposes by the British in the 18th century, it’s now a beloved hiking route.

Make the kids’ day – with a visit to one of Menorca’s Water Parks

Sometimes, a change is as good as a rest. Menorca has three main water parks, and all are open from May to October.

Aquarock Waterpark Menorca: Located in Cala en Bosch, Ciutadella. Aquarock has a wave pool, slides and flumes to suit all ages, jacuzzi, sunbathing areas, restaurants, snack shacks and much more. Open 10.30 to 18.00. from May 7th to 29th September. Aqua Centre Park Acuatico Menorca: Located at Cala en Blanes , offering numerous slides, kamikaze, black hole, water shuttles, water castle, jacuzzi, bar, snack bar, eatery, sunbathing areas and gardens. Open 10.00 to 18.00 from May 1st to October 15th. Splash Sur Menorca Waterpark: Located i n Urb. Biniancolla, Sant Lluis. Splash Sur Waterpark has an excellent range of slides suitable for the young to adults, a lazy river and a unique water play area for the very young.

Facilities include sunbathing areas with free sun loungers and parasols, toilets, lockers, shops, medical teams, lifeguards, restaurants and buffet. Open 10.00 to 18.00 from May 1st to October 14th.

Take the pressure off, and consider using Organised Tours

Many people prefer to have their days pre-planned, and choosing to book organised tours you can do just that. As you would expect staying on a small island, a lot of Menorca’s organised tours involve boat trips.

But you can also book tours of the towns, villages and cities, book tours to different beaches, and tours to explore the island’s prehistoric Talayotic sites.

To give you an idea of what’s available, I’ve highlighted a few of the most popular trips available.

• Mahón: Gin Distillery Tour with Tasting & Appetizers
• Mahón: Explore Mahon harbour on a glass-bottom boat . Duration one hour.
• From Ciutadella: Natural Coves and Beaches Boat Trip & Paella Lunch . Explore the southern coast of Menorca and enjoy a Mediterranean paella for lunch with sangria.
• Menorca: Island Discovery Jeep Tour . Enjoy some of the most scenic landscapes of the island. Duration three hours
• From Fornells. A half-day trip sailing a catamaran through part of the north marine reserve. Maximum ten people. Duration three hours.
• From Fornells. Sail the north coast , anchor on virgin beaches and enjoy a swim in clear blue waters. Duration three hours.
• Full day island tour . Visit Ciutadella, Fornells, Monte Toro and Torralba. Hotel pick-up and return. Duration seven hours.
• Menorca: Kayak and Marine Reserve Snorkeling Adventure .
• Ciutadella: Wine tasting and guided winery tour . Duration one hour.
• From Cala Galdana: Hidden Gems of South Coast Cruise . Sail through Cala Macarella and Macarelleta, Turqueta, Mitjana, Mitjaneta, Trebalúger and more. Swim into the blue waters.

This is just a small selection of available trips, and many come with hotel/resort pick-up and drop-off, and English-speaking guides.

Enjoy your downtime in bars with a view and fine-dining restaurants

Wherever you stay in Menorca’s towns, villages or beach resorts, you’re never that far from a bar or restaurant that will become your favourite.

Whether it’s a drink with a view or a little fine dining, here is the Menorca travel guide’s take on a few well worth a visit.

Bar Peri: Located in Migjorn Gran : Varied menu including tapas, fish, calamari, lasagne, crepes, pancakes and sandwiches. They do a good Sangria and the usual beers and spirits. Open 7.00am to 11.00pm

Sunset Beach Bar: Situated in Playa de Son Bou on the south coast. Primarily a bar with a view of Menorca’s longest beach selling all the usual drinks, including cocktails and Sangria. Open 9.30am to 11.45pm.

Cova d’en Xoroi bar and disco: Located at Cala en Porter, it is a unique bar carved out of the rocks. Daytime entrance costs €12.90, and €15 sunset time. In the evening, disco entrance is €30.

Sa Falua Cocktail Bar, Mahon harbour: A great little bar for those after-dinner drinks. There is an indoor terrace and a small outdoor terrace so be quick, and grab a waterside table to watch the harbour light up as the sun goes down.

Es Cranc, Fornells village: A famous, highly popular seafood restaurant alongside the beach specialising in lobster dishes, including the famous caldereta de langosta menorquina (lobster stew).

Café Balear Restaurant, Ciudadela harbour: Café Balear is a popular, well-known seafood restaurant where you can dine al-fresco beside the water. Specialities include tapas starters, lobster with onion, fried crayfish, monkfish, swordfish carpaccio and lobster stew.

Smoix Restaurant, Ciutadella: Smoix is a pleasant, boutique hotel restaurant open to non-residents and highly thought of by local and visiting gastronomes. Only local, seasonal produce is used, with legumes added when products are scarce.

El Rais restaurant, Mahon harbour: Mentioned in the 2023 Michelin Guide, El Rais is a restaurant with a difference, specialising in fusion dishes of rice, seafood and meats. You can enjoy starters, sharing plates, raw seafood or beef dishes, rice dishes, mains, and desserts.

Nightlife in Menorca

Although Menorca is certainly quieter than its louder sisters across the water, it still has enough lively bars and clubs where you can party until the late early hours.

Most of the late bars and clubs can be found around the harbour areas of Mahon and Ciutadella, with a few scattered around the resort areas of Cala en Porter ( the most famous club in Menorca, Cova d´en Xoroi , is located here) and Son Bou.

In the most popular bars and club venues you can expect everything from House and Garage, to the 70s, 80s and 90s classics for the young at heart, to Salsa and Latin beats. One word of warning, these venues don’t start getting busy until eleven or midnight.

Menorca travel guide daily itineraries

If daily organised trips make too big a hole in the holiday finances, you may prefer to hire a car and do things in your own time . The daily hire rate should reduce the longer you hire the vehicle.

Maps of the island will be available from tourist offices, hotels and apartment reception. My advice is, don’t try to cram too much into each day . Keeping the itinerary loose gives you greater flexibility should you decide to spend not one hour at a stop, but two.

Secondly, jot down your travel plans on a daily basis. That way, if rain or inclement weather is forecast for the following day, it’s easy to change your plans. Who wants to be trudging round an archaeological site in a downpour when they could be enjoying a coffee in a village café.

The following are just a couple of examples of daily itineraries, assuming I based myself in Cala Galdana, a popular resort area on the south coast.

Daily Itinerary 1

• Head for the beautiful beaches of Macarella and Macarelleta and get your feet wet in the shallows
• Drive to Ferreries town. (Inland, the highest town in Menorca)
• Pay a visit to the Naveta de Tudons, 3 miles out from Ciutadella
• Head for Cala Morell beach and its red cliffs
• Make your way to Ciutadella for a leisurely stroll around the old town
• Enjoy sunset at Pont d’en Gil
• Head back to Cala Galdana. Park up the car and jot down tomorrow’s route over a couple of beers.

Daily Itinerary 2

• Take a drive up to Binibeca Vell, a pretty village by the sea.
• Visit Mahon.
• Explore Mahon’s harbour, enjoy an hour’s boat trip around the harbour, and enjoy a meal at a top seafood restaurant.
• Pay a visit to La Mola Fortress
• Visit the Poblat Talaiotic de Trepucó, one of the island’s most significant prehistoric settlements.
• Enjoy the sunset in Cova d´en Xoroi
• Return to Cala Galdana, and end the evening with a beer in your favourite bar.

Daily Itinerary 3

• Head up to Monte Toro, the highest mountain on the island and enjoy the view.
• Drive to Torre d´en Galmés, the most famous and best-preserved prehistoric settlement
• Head north to see the Faro de Favaritx
• Enjoy a caldereta de langosta (lobster stew) in Fornells
• Spend the rest of the day in Cala Pregonda

Getting a hire car with GPS will make the touring much easier, and your supplier should be able to set the language to give instructions in English.

What to buy in Menorca

Finally, wherever you choose to holiday, plenty of souvenir shops will offer pens, lighters and fridge magnets, with the usual ‘product of’ or ‘love from’ logo printed on the product. Or, in the case of Spain and her islands, castanets, little black bulls and fans.

But what about those gifts for the special people in your life. Family, or friend who looks after the pets or keeps an eye on your house while you’re away?

You will find an extensive range of genuine Menorcan products in markets, towns and cities that make unique gifts. Leather goods , bags, shoulder bags and accessories. Pottery, ceramics, Avarques or Abarca sandals , and designer and costume jewellery.

You can browse all these products and more at Menorca’s main craft centre, the Centre Artesanal de Menorca, in Es Mercadal, which has a permanent display and holds temporary exhibitions of new products. The centre also has a small retail shop.

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MENORCA TRAVEL GUIDE

Menorca (or Minorca ) is the second largest island of the Balearics and the less visited compared to Majorca and Ibiza , but it’s a perfect destination for a more quiet and relaxed holiday with a great number of amazing beaches to choose from.

This guide will tell and also show you with photos everything you need to know about planning your trip to Menorca, the best places to visit and things to do and also provide detailed maps and itinerary .

INTRODUCTION TO MENORCA (MINORCA)

Why shall you visit Menorca ?

Menorca is one of the less touristy islands of the Balearics with stunning beaches and some beautiful coastal scenery.

An ideal destination for a relaxed holiday in the sun , but also for people looking for something more adventurous or cultural, as it combines beach activities with hiking opportunities, archaeological sights , seaside villages and two beautiful main towns (Cuitadela & Mahon or Mao) .

It has a lot of prehistoric structures : the navetas, the defensive towers called talayots and the taulas (T-shaped structures).

It is an appealing green island, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , and over forty per cent of it enjoys official protection.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MENORCA

The tourist season starts from May to mid-October

For a beach holiday , the best time to visit the island of Menorca is between June and the end of August . It’s dry, sunny and hot. Also, most of the tourist amenities will only be open during these months.

However, I would avoid the very high season: mid-July to late August, as the island tends to get very crowded with most prices tend to be higher. Weather can also get very hot, with temperatures over 25°C. However, due to its refreshing sea breeze, it never gets too hot during the summer. 

May can be a bit cold to swim in the sea and sunbathe, but it is usually dry and sunny. September & October are considerably more cloudy and can be quite wet.

During the “winter season” most of the hotels, attractions, shops and restaurants, especially in the tourist resorts close in October and do not open until April.

For me, the best time to visit is June with more acceptable temperatures, fewer crowds and lower prices but still possible to swim in the sea.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN MENORCA

Menorca is quite a big island (about 690sqkm), so I would recommend staying on the island at least for 5 days to a full week if you would like to explore it and visit most of the sights at a relaxed pace. Despite its size, driving around the island is quite easy as it is mainly flat.

WHERE TO STAY IN MENORCA

There are many resorts on the island of Menorca where you can spend your holidays. Some of the main beach resorts in Menorca are Cala Galdana , Cala ‘n Bosch Cala ‘n Porter , Son Bou, Santo Tomas, Punta Prima , Arenal d’en Castell , Son Park and Cala en Blanes .

Great places to stay are also Ciutadella and Mahon , the two main towns on the island if you are not bothered by having a beach within walking distance and you prefer city life with plenty of choices for restaurants, bars and shopping. If you want to explore the island by public transport, Mahon or Ciutadella are also the best places to stay in Menorca without a car.

My recommendation is to stay in Cala Galdana as it has a beautiful setting within a horseshoe bay and a beautiful beach, a nice little marina and lots of bars and restaurants. There are also a lot of hotels and apartments to rent and it’s the best base to explore the neighbouring beaches on foot if you don’t have a car.

Cala ‘n Porter is a long-established resort on the south coast ideal for families because of the beach with shallow water. The resort is up on the hill overlooking the beach so it is a bit of a steep walk up.

Cala ‘n Bosch is one of the most popular purpose-built resorts close to Ciutadella, with lots of bars, restaurants and things to do for families and close to a nice beach.

Santo Tomas & Son Bou are another two popular resorts on the south coast with a long stretch of white sandy beaches.

Cala ‘n Blanes, north of Ciutadella is another resort popular with mainly British families. The beach is not one of the best.

Punta Prima & Binibeca are two popular resorts close to Mahon.

Son Park & Arena d’ en Castell are two alternative resorts on the north coast of Menorca.

Best hotels in Menorca

• ARTIEM Audax-Adults Only : This hotel is located at the resort of Cala Galdana, 2min walk from the beach. It offers an outdoor pool overlooking Cala Galdana Bay.
• Meliá Cala Galdana : This luxurious hotel is located on the beachfront of Cala Galdana Beach offering outdoor swimming pools and rooms with sea views.
• Hotel Cala Galdana & Apartamentos d’Aljandar : Another great hotel in Cala Galdana with an outdoor pool, only 3min walk from the beach.
• Hotel Playa Azul : This hotel is located on a cliff above Cala’n Porter Beach. It offers outdoor pools and sun terraces with fantastic sea views.
• Catalonia Mirador des Port : A great option in Mahon, this hotel offers beautiful views over Mahon Bay, 5min walk to the centre of town.
• Hotel Port Mahón : Another great hotel in Mahon, a 10min walk from the centre of town offering an outdoor pool and nice views overlooking the harbour.
• White Sands Beach Club By Diamond Resorts : It is situated in Arenal d’en Castell. Just 200 yards from the beach, this luxurious resort features a restaurant, a swimming pool and spacious apartments with balconies or terraces.
• Comitas Tramontana Park :  This aparthotel is close to Fornells Beach and has an outdoor swimming pool, a buffet restaurant and a gym. Suitable only if you have a car as Fornells main village is 3.5km away.
• Hotel Port Ciutadella : This hotel is located close to Platja Gran (a small beach) and 15min walk to the centre of Ciutadella.
• Barceló Hamilton Menorca Adults Only : A 4-star hotel at the nice seaside village of Es Castell offering great views towards Mahon Bay.
• Grupotel Tamariscos : This aparthotel is located in the resort of Cala ‘n Bosch, overlooking the beach.

Click here to check and compare prices on accommodation for the whole island.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Entry requirements/visa.

No visas are required for visits up to 90 days for most nationalities. You can check entry requirements on this website .

Menorca is a safe place and you shouldn’t come across any issues during your stay. However, it’s worth being vigilant in crowded places and tourist areas for any pickpockets or scammers.

Travel Insurance

It’s always recommended to get travel insurance before you travel even if a destination like Menorca shouldn’t pose any safety concerns. You never know what might happen; better to be fully covered in case of an accident or flight delays etc. SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

The climate in Menorca is Mediterranean , with mild winters and hot, sunny summers.

Summer (June to Sept) : Dry, sunny and hot. Average temperatures between 23 to 35 degrees. July is the hottest and driest month.

Autumn (mid-September to November) : It starts to get cloudier, colder and also rainier as the days progress. Average temperatures between 18 to 25 degrees.

Winter (December to mid-March) : It can get quite cold and windy and also rainy but very rarely snows. Average temperatures between 12 to 16 degrees. February is the coldest month.

Spring (mid-March to May) : It starts getting warmer and sunnier with average temperatures between 15 to 19 degrees.

You can check historical weather data here .

Internet/Mobile Phone

Arrivals from EU countries can enjoy free roaming.

If not part of the EU, you can buy a SIM card in one of the shops of either Orange , Vodafone or Movistar (the three main mobile providers).

Catalan is the main language as well as Menorquin, which is a local dialect of Catalan, but everybody speaks Spanish and various levels of English.

The currency is the euro. It’s worth having some cash with you as a lot of small shops and cafes or restaurants won’t accept cards. The best place to exchange some money is through an ATM that can be found in most villages. More tips about exchanging money can be found here .

Menorca is more expensive than mainland Spain and prices are higher during July and August, especially for accommodation. An average double room will cost 100 euros per night and a meal at a restaurant around 60 euros for 2 people.

The power plugs and sockets are of type C and F (with two round pins). The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.

Packing List

If you visit in the summertime like most tourists, you won’t need to pack very much, mainly summer clothes & shoes , a hat , sunglasses , flip flops , the essential sunscreen and a swimming suit . However, I will recommend having a light summer jacket , as it can be quite chilly at night, especially in September and May when the wind blows.

For more information on travel gear and what to pack click here .

HOW TO GET THERE

Menorca-Mahon Airport is connected to many cities from mainland Spain all year round and also to the Island of Majorca with regular flights. During the summer season, the airport receives charter flights from many European countries.

For the best website to book your flights, check the link below. Always check prices in advance for the best deals.

Getting from/to the airport

The airport is located about 4km away from Mahon. Upon your arrival, you can rent a car (highly recommended) in one of the rental offices at the airport. The airport is the best place to book if you haven’t done it before you arrive.

There is a metered taxi service outside the terminal building. The journey to Mahon is about 10min and to Ciutadella about 40min.

There is also a daily bus service (15min trip) that connects the airport with Mahon City Center (Mahon Bus Station), every 30min, from 6am to midnight at high season. The bus stop is located at the ground level of the main terminal, outside arrivals. More information about the bus service can be found here .

There are ferries from the port of Barcelona to Ciutadella (10 sailings per week in high season & a 6h journey) and Mahon (7.5h journey).

Menorca is also connected with Majorca with fast and frequent ferries from Alcudia (a 1.5 to 2h journey to Ciutadella ). The ferry tickets can be quite expensive.

For a good website to book your ferry ticket that doesn’t charge admin fees, check the link below.

HOW TO GET AROUND

I would definitely recommend hiring a car if you would like to explore the island .

I always try and rent a car whenever I travel as it just gives you the freedom to plan your trip as you like it and stop wherever you like, as I usually do with too many photo stops along the way.

Car rental for a day is usually 40-60 euros in high season. There are car rental offices at the airport and in the main resorts of the island, but it’s always better to book in advance before your travel for the best deals. Also in high season, there might be low availability and the prices can be much higher if you leave it until you arrive. Check the link below to book and compare car rental prices.

Be aware that during July and August, parking at the most popular beaches can be an issue because of the limited spaces.

By Scooter/Motorbike

A cheaper alternative to the car is renting a scooter or motorbike if you are comfortable with it, but you need to be more cautious on the road. The big advantage of renting a motorbike is that there will be no need to worry about parking.

There are taxi stands in most towns. There are only licensed taxis in Menorca, painted white and use meters; no private taxi companies or Uber. Taxis have fixed rates for longer distances and are considerably more expensive compared with bus service.

Indicative fares of taxi routes :

• Airport to Mahon €15
• Airport to Ciutadella €55
• Airport to Cala Galdana: €45
• Airport to Fornells: €40

Bus Network in Menorca connects the main towns and villages as well as some of the beach resorts, but only in the summer season. It is run by three different companies operating in different areas of the island (TMSA, Torres & Autos Fornells). Travelling by bus is a cheap alternative and it is quite comfortable but appropriate planning is needed. More information regarding bus routes, timetables and prices can be found on the following websites:

• Autos Fornells

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

Best places to go for a meal are Ciutadella and Mahon for the best choices in a beautiful setting. For good seafood restaurants by the sea, you can also visit Port de Fornells, the best place to taste caldereta de llagosta. Below you can find a sample list of some of the best restaurants and bars in Menorca. For more information and reviews of restaurants on the island, you can check TripAdvisor .

Nightlife in Menorca is low-key compared with the neighbouring islands of Majorca and Ibiza but there are still some nice bars to enjoy a drink, especially by the sea.

Best restaurants & bars in Menorca

• Restaurant Cafè Balear : Best seafood restaurant in Ciutadella. Very busy.
• Ulisses: Located in the centre of Ciutadella for great tapas
• Restaurante El Rais : One of the best portside restaurants in Mahon
• Es Moli d’es Raco: Traditional menorcan food in Es Mercadal
• El Pescador : Seafood seaside restaurant at Fornells
• Cova d’en Xoroi: Menorca’s most popular bar built in a cave on a cliff overlooking the sea . One of the few nightclubs in Menorca
• El Mirador in Placa d’Espanya : A nice bar by the walls above the harbour offering views of Mahon bay.
• Sa Falua: A nice bar on Mahon waterfront for cocktails

You can check the location of these restaurants on this map .

Local Specialities

• The island’s signature dish: caldereta de llagosta or lobster stew
• Fish & Seafood
• Sípia amb fesols (Cuttlefish with peas)
• Albergínies al forn (stuffed aubergines)
• Sobrassada (cured sausage)
• Local gin from the Xoriguer   distillery (produced since the British Occupation)
• Pomada (gin and cloudy lemonade)
• More information about the best spanish dishes you can find here

BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN MENORCA

• Swim and relax on one of the best beaches on the island
• Explore the two pretty towns of Ciutadella and Mahon
• Admire the views from Monte Toro
• Visit some of the traditional fishing villages: Binibeca Vell, Fornells and Es Castell
• Take a boat trip to Mahon Harbour
• Visit some of the prehistoric monuments
• S’Albufera d’es Grau
• Visit one of the Lighthouses of Menorca
• Cova d’ en Xoroi
• Visit one of the military fortresses of Menorca
• Visit some of the museums of Menorca
• Líthica, Pedreres de s’Hostal
• Visit the Xoriguer Gin Distillery

BEST TOWNS & VILLAGES IN MENORCA

• CIUTADELLA DE MENORCA
• MAHON (MAO)
• FORNELLS PORT
• BINIBECA VELL
• ES MERCADAL

BEST BEACHES IN MENORCA

Menorca has some amazing beaches to choose from. The most popular beaches are on the south coast of the island, mainly small white sandy coves with crystal clear turquoise waters.

I recommend visiting at least the two popular beaches on the south coast Cala Galdana & Cala ‘n Porter and two of the best coves Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana.

Do not forget to visit some of the equally beautiful beaches on the north coast like Cala Pregonda and Platja de Cavalleria with the amazing red cliffs.

Below is a list of the 30 best beaches on the island.

• Cala Galdana
• Cala en Porter
• Cala Mitjana & Mitjaneta
• Cala Macarella & Macarelleta
• Cavalleria Beaches
• Cala Pregonda
• Platja de Son Bou
• Platja Arenal d’en Castell
• Platjes de Son Saura
• Cala en Turqueta
• Playa des Talaier
• Arenal Son Saura
• Santo Thomas
• Cala Trebalúger
• Platja de Binigaus
• Cala Escorxada
• Punta Prima
• Playas de Fornells
• Cala del Pillar
• Platja Sa Mesquida
• Platja Es Grau
• Cala Algaiarens
• Cala Binibeca
• Cala en Bosc & Platja de Son Xoriguer
• Cala Presili
• Cala en Blaines
• Cala Morell

MENORCA TOURIST MAP

You can click on the map below for the location of the best sights, restaurants & hotels, as well as the best villages and beaches to visit in Menorca.

PHOTOGRAPHY

You can check the best photographs and slideshows from the island of Menorca here .

Here is a list of the best viewpoint locations on the island where you enjoy great views .

• Mirador Cim del Toro
• Mirador Sa Punta (Cala Galdana)
• Mirador of Cala Galdana
• Mirador Cala en Porter
• Mirador Del Passeig Maratim
• Mirador puerto Ciutadella
• Mirador Sa Albufera des Grau
• Arena d’ en Castel Mirador
• Mirador Arenal d’en Castell
• Mirador Cala Trebaluger
• View of Playas de Fornells
• Fornelles Tower fortress.

You can check these viewpoints locations and the best photo spots on the island in the following map .

There are lots of centres for watersport s and other activities on the island for the more adventurous.

F ornells is probably the best place as there are two dive centres and a surf centre.

Kayaking is quite popular and kayaks can be rented on the following beaches:

• Es Grau: From there one can reach Illa d’en Colom, a small island 200 meters from the mainland and its beaches.
• Cala en Porter: Cales Coves can be reached from there
• Cala Galdana: Plenty of caves and some of the most famous beaches of Menorca can be reached from there.

Horse riding

Menorca a Cavall is a company that offers horse riding excursions to different beaches and locations around the island. The farm is located near the town of Ferreries.

There are numerous hiking trails but the most famous one is Camí de Cavalls .

This is an ancient path of 185km that encircles the whole island of Menorca. You can also cycle part of the route or even horse ride.

Activities for kids

Lloc de Menorca is a small zoo where you can enjoy a variety of animals between native breeds and exotic species. Open from April to October (10am to 6pm) with a general price for adults of €14 & €9 for kids. It is located between Alaior and Mahon.

Splash Sur Menorca is probably the best water park in Menorca, located in Punta Prima. Price for adults €23.

Aqua Centre is another water park situated in Cala en Blanes, north of Ciutadella. Great for smaller kids, but a bit overpriced for what’s on offer. Price for adults €22.

Wine Tasting

Bodegas Binifadet : The winery is located near Sant Lluis and offers wine-tasting tours. The experience lasts for about an hour and includes strolling through the vineyards, a visit to the winery to see all the stages of production of the wines from harvesting to bottling and finally wine tasting. Price of tour: €12. The restaurant is really nice too where you can enjoy dinner and wine in a beautiful location.

EXCURSIONS & TOURS

• Boat tour of Mahon Harbour

This is a good 1h tour of the Mahon harbour offering some great views of the surrounding coastline and the town of Mahon.

There are two companies ( Yellow catamarans & Rutas Maritimas de la Cruz ) offering cruises around the harbour at €13.5 per adult.

During the trip, you can listen to a commentary in English on the history and points of interest of the Port of Mahon and Menorca, but there are no stops during the trip.

Boat tour along the coast of Menorca

This is a very good way of seeing the non so easily accessible beaches of the south coast. The best tours on offer are the ones below:

• Half-Day Boat Tour along the South Coast of Menorca : This tour starts from Cala ‘n Bosch (€35 per adult & 3.5h duration).
• Half-Day Boat Excursion 6-8 South beaches of Menorca : This tour starts from Cala Galdana (€70 & 3.5h duration)

Ferry trip to Majorca

If you have plenty of time on the island, you can take the ferry from Ciutadella to Alcudia (1.5h to 2h journey) in neighbouring Majorca and enjoy this beautiful coastal resort.

Difficult to be done as a day trip, but it’s definitely worth visiting Majorca as part of a longer trip.

More information about excursions & tours in Menorca can be found here .

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

It is worth staying on the island for at least 5 to 7 days if you want to explore it. The following itinerary includes things to do for 6 days on the island, but if you have more time to spend, you can change this itinerary to allow a more relaxed pace. I have taken Cala Galdana as a base & overnight stay for the duration of the holiday; this itinerary might work slightly differently if you stay in other parts of the island.

• Hike to Cala Mitjana from Cala Galdana (15min walk) & enjoy a swim in this beautiful cove
• Optional: Continue to Cala Trebaluger (another 20min walk)
• A quick visit to Ferreries village
• Visit Naveta de Tudons
• Drive to Cala Morell for a photo stop
• Visit Ciutadella & walk the narrow streets of the old town
• Evening stroll at beautiful Ciutadella harbour & dinner
• Back to Cala Galdana
• Total drive time: 1.5h
• Quick visit of Es Mercadal
• Drive up to Monte Toro to enjoy the views
• Visit Far de Cavalleria for a walk around the lighthouse
• Swim in the scenic Cavalleria Beach
• Hike to Cala Pregonda for another swim in this beautiful setting
• Photo stop at Playa de Fornells
• Evening stroll and meal at Fornells port
• Total drive time: 2h
• Hike to Macarella & Macareletta for a swim
• Optional: Poblat talaiòtic de Talatí de Dalt
• Visit Binibeca Vell
• Optional: Bodegas Binifadet winery
• Evening walk and meal at Mahon
• Total drive time: 1h 45min
• A quick visit to Alaior
• Visit the historic site of Torre d’en Galmes
• Swim in Son Bou
• Optional: Torralba d’en Salort
• Cala en Porter for another swim or kayaking
• Cova d’en Xoroi for a drink while enjoying the sunset
• Go to Arena d’ en Castell or Son Saura for a swim
• Drive to Far de Favàritx for a walk to the lighthouse
• Stop to enjoy the view at the Mirador Sa Albufera des Grau
• Visit Es Grau for some kayaking
• Drive to Mola Fortress for a visit
• Evening stroll and meal at Es Castell
• Total drive time: 2.5h
• Visit Cala en Bosc & take a boat tour along the south coast of the island (3.5h)
• OR take a boat tour from Cala Galdana (3.5h)
• Enjoy your last day relaxing at Cala Galdana

You can find the driving routes for the above itinerary on the flowing clickable map.

VIRTUAL TOUR

Check the following video slideshow to get further inspiration to visit Menorca 🙂

THINGS TO BUY

The best destination for souvenir shopping is either Mahon or Ciutadella with lots of souvenir shops as well as shops with handmade crafts and typical menorcan products.

A unique souvenir to buy is a pair of avarques, a typical sandal from Menorca exported around the world. S’Avarca de Menorca in Mahon has a wide selection and the most unique designs.

Queso de Mahón (Mahon cheese) or sobrassada (cured sausage) can be bought in the markets of Mahon.

FURTHER READING

You can check the following posts :

• Menorca Beaches & Resorts
• Town & Villages of Menorca
• Best things to do in Menorca

Other useful websites for more information about Menorca:

• Menorca Island : The official tourist website of Menorca
• MyMenorca : The most detailed independent website about Menorca

Some good travel guides to buy before your visit Menorca:

• Insight Guides Pocket Menorca : Compact, concise, and packed with essential information about Where to Go and What to Do. The cheapest pocket guide for Menorca.
• Menorca Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide : Another affordable option. Explore Menorca with this handy, pocket-sized guide, packed with Insider Tips
• The Rough Guide to Mallorca & Menorca : This comprehensive guide also includes information about Majorca.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

• Flights : I always use Skyscanner as my first choice as it’s so easy to use and you can search best deals by month. Momondo is another very good search engine as well as Google Flights .
• Accommodation : I always use Booking.com as my first choice, as it offers a great choice of accommodation at affordable prices and it’s so easy to use. TripAdvisor and Trivago are the best search engines to check deals from different websites; however not as good for checking the actual properties & rooms. Airbnb is a great alternative to find out homes and apartments to rent by real homeowners.
• Ferries : Ferryhopper is one of the best websites to check ferry schedules and buy the cheapest ferry tickets.
• Car Rental : I always check Skyscanner for the cheapest car rental options.
• Public Transport : There are 3 different companies with their own website for checking public transport in Menorca: TMSA , Autos Fornells & Torres .
• Day Trips & Tours : Viator provides the most comprehensive list of day trips and you can book directly with them. TripAdvisor is also a great place to search for tours & activities to do.
• Travel Insurance : SafetyWing is a great choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Alternatively, you can use one of the price comparison websites for cheaper quotes.

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Menorca

Menorca is found in the Mediterranean and is one of the Balearic Islands which are located off the east coast of Spain. This sunny, popular island is a favourite for summer vacationers across Europe because Menorca boasts a beautifully rugged coastline and a multitude of white sand beaches.

Compared to the other Balearic Islands, Menorca is a quieter place to visit, and you’ll find that the clubs of Ibiza and the rowdy bars of Mallorca haven’t exactly made their way over here yet.

Instead, you can enjoy a more authentic side of the Balearic Islands, and on Menorca, you can visit prehistoric standing stones, you can explore the historic streets of the capital, Mahon, and you can venture into the countryside in search of the island’s rural charms.

To inspire your Spanish getaway, here’s our ultimate travel guide to Menorca.

This ultimate travel guide to Menorca will show you all the most beautiful places in Menorca, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Menorca and things to do in Menorca which will help you in planning a trip to Menorca.

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This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

How to get to Menorca

Menorca has a small airport which is located a few kilometres away from the island’s capital city, Mahon. Menorca is very much a summer destination and the majority of flights to the island are only run seasonally, during the most popular months of the year.

During summer, you can find budget flights from many European cities with airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet offering multiple routes, from countries such as the UK, France and Germany. Package holiday companies such as TUI and Thomas Cook also offer seasonal charter flights.

There are also domestic flights available from major Spanish cities, as well as the neighbouring islands of Ibiza and Mallorca, which are just a short hop away.

The Spanish airlines Vueling and Iberia offer more consistent flights to Menorca through the year from Spain and are a good bet if you are travelling offseason.

You can also catch a ferry from Mallorca, which is just one hour away, or from Barcelona on the Spanish mainland, which is a journey of around 7 hours.

What to expect in Menorca 

Compared to Mallorca and Ibiza, the other major islands in the Balearics, Menorca has a reputation for being a quieter getaway. This doesn’t mean it’s not a busy place in summer of course, but it does mean that it’s still possible to find secluded beaches, while you won’t have as much raucous nightlife in the towns.

Most Menorcans speak several languages, with the local dialect being a form of Catalan similar to that which you find in Barcelona. People will also be fluent in Castilian Spanish, while those working in the tourism industry will certainly speak English.

The main currency in use, as with the rest of Spain, is the Euro , and you can find ATMs and money changers at the airport and in Mahon, the capital.

How to get around Menorca

The main transport hub for the island is Mahon, where you find the airport and the ferry port. If you’re arriving by plane, then you can arrange transfers in advance with local taxi companies, or if you are staying in package accommodation, these may be included.

If travelling independently, you can also catch a public bus outside the arrivals terminal, which can transfer you to the main bus station in Mahon.

From Mahon, you can use the public bus lines to get around much of the island, with most major towns and touristy areas linked to the capital.

Bus schedules are fairly regular, however, for absolute freedom and flexibility, you will want to consider renting a car instead, especially if you want to discover more secluded and hidden spots across the island.

The best time to visit Menorca

Menorca is a very seasonal travel destination, however, given the warm Mediterranean climate, it can be a pleasant place to visit all through the year, even out of the summer high season.

The island is most popular between May and September, and the busiest periods are generally July and August when many countries in Europe have school holidays.

This can be a busy time to visit, but given the island’s seasonality, it’s also when you can rest assured that you’ll find regular flights and ferries, and also when businesses are open across the island.

Things start to close down come October, and there are fewer flights to the island and fewer package deals.

Outside of high season is a good time for independent travel, and while the temperatures won’t be as high, Menorca weather is always good, and there’s still lots of sunshine well into winter, and almost no other tourists around.

Things to do in Menorca 

Mahon is the capital and largest city in Menorca, and even if you don’t stay here you’ll be transiting through to get on and off the island.

Mahon though is well worth a stay, or at the very least a day trip if you are heading off to stay at a resort because this is a truly historic destination.

You can enjoy excellent restaurants and local taverns overlooking the sea, or the ramshackle streets, and Mahon is well known for its wonderful culinary scene.

Explore the harbourfront, and admire the superb blend of architecture, which has influences from Spain, from France, and notably from the 18th century British occupation of Menorca.

Museum of Menorca

For history buffs, one of the Menorca things to do that you can’t miss is a visit to the Museum of Menorca . Located in the capital, Mahon, at the museum you can delve deep into the island’s past.

You’ll find archaeological finds on display in the galleries here, as you’re taken on a journey from prehistoric times, through to the Roman colonisation, the Moorish days and finally to the British and Spanish eras. There’s a lot to learn about Menorca, and this is the place to do it.

Taulas of Menorca

To see first hand just a small piece of Menorca’s long history, then head to the Taulas of Menorca .

Found in the centre of the island, the Taulas are prehistoric monoliths which were raised thousands of years ago by the local inhabitants of Menorca. The Taulas are ancient structures and are often seen as being Menorca’s Stonehenge.

On the opposite side of the island to Mahon, you can find the town of Ciutadella, which is the second-largest settlement on Menorca.

Ciutadella has a rich history and you can stroll through the pleasant streets admiring the different influences that are visible, from Arab and Moorish designs to Italian architecture.

The harbour here is beautiful too, while you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

The highest point on Menorca is Monte Toro, but don’t expect too much, because it only rises to a height of 342 metres.

Although it’s more of a hill than a mountain, Monte Toro is still high in comparison to the surrounding landscapes, and it rises dramatically on the skyline, close to the town of Es Mercadal.

You can hike to the top of Monte Toro, or there’s a four by four-track leading to the summit if you’re feeling lazy. The views from the top stretch across the island and far out into the Balearic Sea.

Beaches and Bays

History, culture, heritage and food aside, the best reason to visit the island is really for the outstanding Menorca beaches.

The coastline is rugged in places, with the north being particularly renowned for its blustery weather and high winds, which together with the surf have carved the cliffs and beaches into a spectacular wilderness over time.

There are also more pristine, white sand beaches across the island too, and plenty of protected and calm turquoise bays glistening in the sun.

In high season, the beaches closest to the towns will always be busy but head further afield and you can always find a quiet spot in Menorca.

Some of the best beaches to visit include Cala Macarelleta and Cala Macarella, both iconic destinations where you can find white sands and clear water.

Calas Mitjana is a lovely, and beautiful cove to visit, but in peak season, it can be one of the busiest spots on the island.

What to eat in Menorca

Menorca has a great culinary scene, and you can find a wide range of restaurants and cuisines from around the world in the resorts and in the towns and cities.

There’s a rich culinary tradition in Menorca, and it’s even claimed that Mahon is the birthplace of Mayonnaise.

The cuisine is very typical of the Mediterranean, with plenty of olives, fish and cheese to sample. Mahon Cheese is a local speciality, and you’ll recognise it by the distinctive orange peel.

You can find fresh seafood everywhere, but a particular local favourite is seafood meatballs . Lobster Stew, or Caldereta de Langosta , is another must-try dish when you are in Menorca, while you’ll find local cured meats for sale everywhere.

Where to stay in Menorca

Budget – Menorca isn’t a big backpacking destination and you won’t find so many hostels on the island. There are some in Mahon and Ciutadella, but budget travellers may find it’s easier to rent out local apartments or rooms on AirBnB.

Mid Range – If you’re wondering where to stay in Menorca, then there’s plenty of mid-range accommodation across the island, and you can find good value resorts complete with pools all along the coast, while you can score excellent deals if you book a package holiday.  

Luxury – Menorca has some lavish luxury offerings, and some of the best on the island include the 16th-century rooms of the Hotel Can Faustino or the boutique, countryside climes of the Hotel Torralbenc .

Tours to do in Menorca

With a beautiful, long coastline to explore, one of the best ways to get around the best of Menorca’s natural sights is to join a boat tour.

From Mahon and other harbours around the island, you can join a variety of boating excursions that take you to both popular beaches, and secluded bays. There are a variety of boats on offer too, from fast, sleek catamarans to rustic sailing vessels.

Try to join a tour that stays out until sunset, so you can enjoy a fiery end to your Menorcan day trip from the water of the Balearic Sea.

Kayaking Tours

Another great way to explore the coastline is to hire a kayak or canoe for the day or to join an organised kayaking tour of Menorca.

It’s a fantastic way to get some exercise while you are on holiday, and it’s a beautiful way to experience the best of Menorca’s great outdoors at the same time.

Many kayaking tours will take you to hidden spots along the coast, that are otherwise inaccessible, while you’ll also have plenty of opportunities for snorkelling and swimming too.

Jeep Safaris

Menorca’s rugged interior is another great part of the island to explore, but much of it is off-limits unless you are driving an off-road vehicle.

Popular jeep safaris will whisk you away from your hotel and into the heart of Menorca’s most dramatic countryside, where the roads end and there’s little around you except wilderness and wildlife.

Day trips from Menorca

North coast marine reserve.

Off the north coast of Menorca, you can find a protected marine reserve that’s well regarded for its high level of biodiversity.

Part of the wider Menorca Biosphere Reserve, which recognises and guards this high level of biodiversity, the North Coast Marine Reserve makes for a fantastic snorkelling or diving destination.

Take a day trip out into the Balearic Sea , and join a boat tour into the marine reserve, where you can find an abundance of underwater life.

You don’t necessarily need to pick between Menorca or Mallorca, because you can actually enjoy the best of both worlds.

Stay on peaceful and relaxed Menorca, but take a day trip over to Mallorca to experience the busy beaches and rowdy bars, or to take in the history and architecture of Palma, the island’s largest city.

Mallorca just just a one hour ferry ride away Mahon, and you can easily make a day trip across from Menorca in the morning, and return late afternoon.

Recommended tours in Menorca

• Private Tour with SUP and Snorkel along the coast of Menorca
• Around the island of Menorca
• Jeep Safari
• Sail Boat Sunset Trip in Menorca
• Hiking Trail Menorca Transfers Stage 6 Son Bou to Cala Porter/ Es Canutells
• Jet Ski trip in the North of Menorca
• Visit and explore Ciutadella
• Guided Visit to Binnisues Natural Sciences Museum of Menorca with Live Entertainment and Food Tasting

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Holiday hotspot popular with Brits threatens to ban all visitors

• Binibeca Vell has been dubbed the  'Spanish Mykonos' is popular with tourists

A Menorca holiday village dubbed the 'Spanish Mykonos' has threatened to ban all tourists after previously telling them to only visit between 11am and 8pm so they can enjoy their breakfasts. 

Binibeca Vell, which is popular with Brits, is set to receive one million tourists this year after its popularity boomed on social media. 

Locals have complained about the bad behaviour of visitors with one claiming 'they went into homes', 'sat on chairs' and 'climb on our walls'. 

Last year, residents began to hit back, requesting tourists only visit the fishing village - which is famous for its unique whitewashed walls - between 11am and 8pm.  

In a post on the village's website, locals also asked vistors to refrain from 'entering homes' and 'climbing balconies'. 

The message included a series of pictures showing one tourist splayed out on a stairwell and another sitting in a chair belonging to one of the locals.  

Óscar Monge, who runs a group representing Binibeca Vell's 195 property owners, told the Guardian : 'Binibeca Vell is not a place of adventure, but it's a private housing development where people reside.' 

'If the administration continues to leave us abandoned, in August we'll carry out a vote among owners on whether we should close up the development,' he added.

Mr Monge explained that the main problem is the Spanish authorities who residents believe are not doing enough to tackle the issues with tourists. 

Binibeca Vell residents were given £12,850 by the government last year to help deal with rubbish removal but the deal has not been renewed. 

Begoña Mercadal, head of tourism for Menorca told the El Diario newspaper that residents would be able to close their village to tourists if they wished.

She said: 'We fully acknowledge that it is private property and, therefore, if they want to close it, that is their right.'

The row in Binibeca Vell comes amid a number of protests across holiday hotspots in Spain that are struggling with overtourism. 

Last month, furious locals in Mallorca demanded that British holidaymakers 'go home' in anti-tourist graffiti scrawled across the isalnd. 

'Go Home Tourist' was written in English over a wall underneath a real estate promotion billboard in Nou Llevant, Mallorca, a neighbourhood that has seen a massive influx of foreign buyers over the past few years.

Thousands of people also demonstrated in Tenerife, Canary Islands in April to demand that the government temporarily limit tourist arrivals.

Residents in Mallorca are echoing some of the same complaints that protestors in the Canary Islands have been making, claiming that the boom in short-term holiday rentals is driving up housing costs for locals.

British visitors to Tenerife are also set to be hit with a controversial 'tourist tax' from next year, local authorites recently confirmed.  

The proposal is part of the island's new tourism strategy and is seen as an eco tax, but the level of charge and the formalities are yet to be agreed by Parliament.

It will apply to all of Tenerife's most famous protected sites, including the volcano Mount Teide and several rural parks and hamlets like Masca.

A spokesman for the Tenerife government said the introduction of this eco tax was necessary due to the vast increase of people visiting protected sites, visitors and locals alike.

Travellers aged 16 and over already pay a daily charge of up to €4 (£3.45) when visiting the equally popular Balearic islands, such as Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza.

MailOnline also reported today that the government of the Balearic Islands had introduced a ban on the sale of alcohol between 9:30pm and 8am in a bid to crack down on so-called low quality tourism.

The new decree, which will be enforced until at least December 2027, bans late night sales of booze from commercial establishments in Llucmajor, Palma and Calvia in Mallorca and Sant Antoni in Ibiza.

The government wrote in its announcement of the ban that the 'correct interpretation' of the ban was that 'commercial establishments' have to be completely closed, and cannot simply shut display cases.

It also banned party boats from being within one nautical mile of any of these destinations, and they are banned from picking up an disembarking passengers in this area.

The BBC reported that the decree, an expansion of a 2020 law, was pushed at the request of local authorities.

A spokesperson for the Balearic Islands tourism council said that the 2020 law was combatting anti-social behaviour.

He added that he hoped the law would no longer be necessary in 'in three to four years, if we instill in people how to behave.'

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Spanish holiday village wants to ban all tourists after sudden spike in Instagram travellers

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A coastal village in Spain that’s growing in popularity may soon stop tourists from visiting.

Travellers who document their awe-inspiring trips on social media are obsessed with the ‘underrated’ and ‘stunning’ village of Binibeca Vell in Menorca – so much so, it’s had a big boom in interest and visitors in recent years.

The picturesque Spanish settlement currently has 800,000 visitors annually, mostly between the warmer months between May and October, but this year that figure is set to rise to 1 million. 

As a result of the sudden influx, local officials are now planning to put an end to tourism there.

So, why exactly is it so popular?

Although the village may not be as well known as the Greek island of Santorini, it still has thousands of tourists and lots of similarities – including its pretty white-washed buildings, stunning beaches and quaint harbours.

@loverboards Menorca, Spain has my HEART. #menorcaspain #minorca #menorca #binibeca #mahonspain #covadenxoroi #barcelonatiktok #enricanamenorca #menorcaisland #eurosummer ♬ why I love you – Maria 🌹

@dreamtravel.locations The unheard-of whitewashed European town Consider the opportunity to visit this location! 📍Binibeca, Menorca travel #travellife #travelbucketlist #traveltiktok #menorca #white #foryou #fyp ♬ original sound – Must-See Places – Must-See Places

Videos on TikTok filmed in the streets of Binibeca Vell have amassed hundreds of likes each. One of the app’s users named Laura (@loverboards) called it ‘one of the most underrated places to visit’, while commenter Victoria gushed: ‘So so underrated. It’s stunning there.’

The houses are painted white, the lanes are small and you can gawk at the sea views while treating yourself to some cava and local cuisine at the bars and restaurants. It’s not hard to see why travel vloggers have fallen in love with the place.

As visitors walk through the cobblestone streets to take selfies and videos for their social media feeds, residents have long complained about the noise and disturbance this generates – and who can blame them if they’re trying to enjoy a little afternoon siesta?

Measures to tackle the disturbance caused by visitors began last year and include a scheme where locals were offered €15,000 (just over £12,800) to help clean up the litter left by tourists. 

As the town braces for its biggest wave of tourists yet, visitors are now only permitted to visit between 11am and 8pm.

One resident told the news website ElDiario.es last month how tourists ‘went into homes, they sat on chairs’. She also complained: ‘hey take things, climb on our walls, they have outdoor drinking parties’. 

A stern reminder on the village’s website tells tourists that the village, ‘is a private property condominium’. 

Óscar Monge, the head of the group representing Binibeca Vell’s 195 property owners, acknowledged that the possible ban would likely harm the people whose hotels, bars and souvenir shops depend on local tourism. 

Describing the closure as a last resort, he told The Guardian : ‘Of course it’s a difficult decision but we’re being pushed into it.’

The travel destinations that are limiting tourists

Binibeca Vell isn’t the only place looking to thwart its influx of tourists. Venice introduced a tax for day trippers , as the sinking city has an estimated 30 million tourists each year, but only 3.2 million stay overnight.

All of the extra foot traffic leads to noise pollution and commotion in the area, which locals have to deal with throughout the summer.

If you’re heading to Venice’s old city for the day, expect to pay €5 (£4.30) to enter. 

Lake Como is also considering a tourist fee due to over-tourism, which would only be levied during public holidays and at the weekend. 

‘We are already discussing the idea [of a tourist tax]. Revolutions begin with concrete measures and we are ready for this long journey,’ Alessandro told The Times . 

‘[It’s] difficult to be mayor when you are fighting tourism.’

The majority of visitors may be well behaved, but there are also some who are more unruly and countries even beyond Europe have had enough.

In February, the Indonesian island of Bali ushered in a new levy aimed at protecting the local culture and environment. Bali is renowned for its gorgeous beaches, looming volcanoes , wildlife, nature trails and sacred temples.

Almost 4.8 million tourists visited Bali between January and November last year, according to Bali’s Central Bureau of Statistics. But now will have to pay the fee once online, either before or during their Bali visit. Domestic Indonesian visitors heading to Bali are exempt from the tax, which is 150,000 IDR (around £7.40).

Misbehaving tourists in recent years have angered locals. In May last year, three tourists from Russia were arrested by immigration officers after they were caught dancing at the sacred Pengubengan Temple in east Bali. 

Officials in Japan have taken a more unique approach. A spot in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, outside a Lawson convenience store, has become an immensely popular photo op for snapping a particular shot of Mount Fuji behind it.

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Visitors are also gathering on a stretch of pavement next to the Lawson shop and rowdy holidaymakers are leaving litter behind and are said to be ignoring traffic regulations.

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Menorca village threatens to close to tourists after explosion in numbers

Binibeca Vell residents say officials have left them to grapple alone with noise and rubbish from stampede of visitors

Perched over a small bay, the village of Binibeca Vell on the Spanish island of Menorca has long been a magnet for tourists looking to wander along its winding, narrow lanes lined with whitewashed villas.

But as its popularity swells on social media, setting off a stampede for selfies snapped along its cobblestone streets, residents are threatening to stop access to the village all together.

“The problem isn’t tourists,” said Óscar Monge, who heads the group representing Binibeca Vell’s 195 property owners. Instead, he pointed the finger at officials, who he said had forsaken residents as they grappled with the noise generated by the constant parade of visitors and the rubbish that piled up daily.

“Binibeca Vell is not a place of adventure, but it’s a private housing development where people reside,” Monge added.

It’ is a debate playing out across Spain and much of Europe as residents call on officials to more when it comes to striking a balance between their needs and soaring tourist numbers.

As mentions of Binibeca Vell multiplied on social media, the number of visitors has rocketed to about 800,000 a year, with most of them arriving between May and October, said Monge. This year residents are bracing for as many as 1 million visitors, he added.

“If the administration continues to leave us abandoned, in August we’ll carry out a vote among owners on whether we should close up the development,” he said.

The threat follows years of complaints by residents. Speaking to the news website ElDiario.es last month, one resident vented her frustration over how tourists had behaved while visiting the village. “They went into homes, they sat on chairs, they take things, climb on our walls, they have outdoor drinking parties,” she said. “If this isn’t regulated, it will happen every summer.”

Residents began cracking down last year, asking tourists to visit only during certain hours. The schedule was tightened this month to ask that tourists stop by only between 11am and 8pm. “We want to have breakfast peacefully on our terraces and sleep peacefully without noise,” said Monge.

The request on the village’s website also asks tourists to refrain from “entering homes” and “climbing balconies”. The request is accompanied by a series of photos depicting one tourist splayed out on a stairwell and another sitting in the chair of a resident.

Seemingly at the heart of the residents’ stance is a lapsed deal with local officials. Last year, residents were given €15,000 (£12,850) to help with rubbish removal, while officials committed to better training for tour guides that visit the area and curbs on public transport into the area.

So far the deal has not been renewed. As both sides lay blame on each other, they are scheduled to meet in the coming days. “We’re going with very little hope, to be honest,” said Monge.

The head of tourism for the Menorcan government, Begoña Mercadal, did not reply to a request for comment. But speaking to Eldiario.es, she confirmed that the village was within its right to curtail visits. “We fully acknowledge that it is private property and, therefore, if they want to close it, that is their right,” Mercadal said.

Monge was swift to acknowledge that the decision to do so, however, would probably harm the 100 or so families in the region whose hotels, bars and souvenir shops depend on local tourism. “Of course it’s a difficult decision but we’re being pushed into it,” he said.

He described the closure as a last resort. “From the coast you would still be able to visit the perimeter of the village, but you wouldn’t be able to enter the interior lanes,” he added. “And that’s the charming photo that everyone wants for Instagram.”

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