One of the Mediterranean’s most unspoilt islands, understated Menorca has pine-backed bays and sweeping golden beaches. Discover the highlights of this unique destination at your own pace with laid-back yet stylish Zafiro Menorca in the heart of Cuitadella.
Here are 10 reasons why Menorca should be top of your list:
1. Thriving Wildlife: Unspoiled by tourism, Menorca has been encouraging sustainable travels long before it became fashionable. Declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993, the island is protected against the scourge of development and is home to idyllic coastlines and deep gorges where you'll find some of Europe's rarest flowers. 2. Brochure-like Beaches: With impossibly turquoise waters and the softest white sand, Menorca’s beaches are deemed to be the Caribbean of Europe. The island is home to more than 100 beaches and coves, linked via walkable coastal paths. 3. Slow Dining: Menorcan culinary tradition celebrates simple and tasty recipes, masterfully prepared with the freshest Mediterranean produce. One of the typical dishes is a flavorsome lobster stew (Caldereta de Llagosta), famously served in the little fishing port of Fornells in the north-east. 4. Horse Riding: Menorca offers stunning routes for horse riding lovers of all ages and levels. Trot along the ancient Camí de Cavalls (Path of Horses), which encircles the island, and soak up the Mediterranean sun and breeze. 5. Maó: Set on the island eastern edge, Menorca’s capital, Maó boasts the biggest natural port in the Mediterranean. Visit the former Baroque cloister, now a food market, and one of the oldest opera houses in Spain Teatro Principal de Mahón. Families can enjoy a tour on the little red Mahón Express Train. 6. A Quirky Legacy: Due to the 18th century British dominance, Maó mixes elegant Georgian-style mansions with Baroque elements and Spanish architecture. Don’t miss a tasting at the famous Xoriguer Gin distillery, another sign of British influence. 7. Cuitadella: The island’s old capital and second largest town, Cuitadella is a joy to discover. Declared Artistic Historic Site in 1964, it boasts a smart, yacht-filled harbour from which medieval streets filled with palaces, churches and fortresses depart. Stay in the stylish, family friendly Zafiro Menorca. 8. Stone Wonders: Scattered across the countryside in the South East, the magnificent vestiges of Talayotic settlements provide hikers with picture-worthy stops along the way. Other megalithic sites can be found along the scenic coastal path Camí de Cavalls on the south east of the island. 9. The Perfect Sandals: The island of Menorca is renowned for its shoe industry and there is no shortage of artisanal shops. Choose between the classic abarca, the simplest leather sandal symbol of the island, the fashionable espadrilles or a model form one of Spain top shoe designers, the Menorca-born Jaime Mascaró. 10. Family Adventures: from Los Delfines water park to the Lloc de Menorca zoo situated between Maó and Alaoir, the island offers an array of activities for families. If you love water sports, try kayaking to caves and coves, the water condition is excellent and totally safe.
