Menorca

Menorca, the second largest of the tree islands, is the unsung sister. A bit quieter with less of a scene, it is also, for those in the know, Spain's best-kept secret. Low undulating hills, miles of coastlines, wonderful sailing.

There are two main towns on the island. Ciutadella in the west is the ancient capital, a beautiful medieval city with narrow streets, a beautiful cathedral and a seafront promenade lovely for strolling along. In the summer it does get very busy. Mahon in the south east is the modern capital and is also rich in history. Rising steeply out of the deepest harbour in the Med (and second only to Pearl Harbour in the world), it was occupied by the British in the 18th century and has a Georgian feel to much of its architecture. The British also left behind a gin-making heritage and Xoriguer gin is still made locally and extremely popular, generally drunk with lemonade.

Menorca has more beaches than Ibiza and Mallorca together. The most popular are on the south coast, Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana are perfect white powder and clear water, and although they get very busy in summer, they are still worth the trip. Son Bou is the longest beach on the south side of the island. There are lovely beaches in the Des Grau National Park, a couple of nice restaurants and windsurfing, kayaaking. For somewhere really special, try Cala Pregonda in the quiet north of the island, a gentle 30-minute walk from the carpark.

Menorca is heaven for boat lovers. Although yachts can be chartered from Ciutadella and Mahon, the watersports and dinghy centre of the island is Fornells in the north. The highly recommended Menorca Sailing can be found there.

Menorca was created a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993. The stunning and totally unspoilt S'Albufuerra des Grau National Park is worth a visit. There are lots of trails across its 5000 acres teaming with birdlife. You can hire kayaks in the village of Es Grau and paddle into the lagoons or round the rocky coastline. If you are lucky, you might see a turtle. 

Menorca does not have the high hills of Mallorca but is gently undulating, making it perfect horse riding territory. The ancient Path of the Horses, Cami des Cavalls, is almost 200 km of bridle path round the outside of the island, popular for leisurely trekking or mountain biking.

Don't miss the fish mrket in Mahon. A couple of times a week, they have live bands and everyone hangs out eating tapas. Lobster stew is a local speciality.

Menorca is famous for its shoe making. The popular ballet pumps, Pretty Ballerinas, were born in Menorca and you can pick a pair in Mahon. 


Mahon

From the airport

Airport bus: the airport bus to Mahon bus station runs every half hour outside Arrivals, 5.55am-6.55pm, then hourly until 10.30pm

Evening artisan markets brighten up the island's towns throughout the summer. Ideal for picking up pottery, jewellery and other gifts. Try the daily market at Cales Fonts or at Ciutadella port.

Don't wait until you are at the airport to buy cheese, spicy sausage or huge ensaimadas (soft pastries sprinkled with sugar). For better prices head to the indoor market at Claustre del Carme.

In August, it is fiesta time across the island. The horse parades, fairground atractions, market stalls, concerts and fireworks are not to be missed. A swig or two of potent pomada (Minorcan gin and lemonade) should keep your energy levels up.