Menorca is an island in the middle of the Balearic archipelago known for its pleasant climate and peaceful life. This unique place receives a lot of visitors every year, most of them families. And it goes without saying that Menorca, unlike its neighbours, is a quiet island with beautiful beaches and historical monuments. The island has a lot to offer: in the north as well as in the south, by the sea or in the hinterland, the Spanish island is full of historical jewels to explore, new coves to discover... Discover the must-sees of the island with Villanovo!
Menorca is divided into eight municipalities, but the towns of Mahon and Ciutadella, at the ends of the island, account for two thirds of the 93,000 inhabitants. These two towns, which are home to many restaurants, shops, sights and places of interest, must be visited. But we also invite you to discover the villages spread throughout the island, which also have a rich history and culture. Finally, enjoy your stay with the Minorquin way of life and adopt the Poc a Poc (the "each thing in its time") you will have other opportunities to come back to our beautiful Menorca.
coves and beaches
Menorca has more than 220 km of coastline and over a hundred more than a hundred incredibly beautiful coves and beaches. The island has been classified as a Biosphere Reserve since 1993, and managed to preserve its coasts and their wild aspects. The choice was not easy, but we have selected for you our 15 most beautiful beaches and calas spread in the 4 corners of the island: from the reddish clay and slate beaches in the north to the transparent and turquoise in the south. Note that restaurants and bars on the beach cannot be found in Menorca (better!) we advise you to prepare a good picnic if you want to spend the day.
Besides the beautiful beaches and coves, Menorca also has historical treasures. They include megalithic stone constructions, called talayots, taulas or navetas, spread throughout the island. Menorca has almost 1,600 prehistoric monuments. Those prehistoric monuments bear witness to the first civilisations that populated Menorca. Most of them date back to the 9th century BC. It is easy to visit these archaeological remains, as they are exposed in open air and integrated into the landscape. Access to knowledge about prehistory has never been easier.
MUNICIPALITY OF CIUTADELLA
The Tudons Shuttle
Torrellafuda & Torretrencada
Son Catlar
MUNICIPALITY OF MAHON
Trepuco
Talati de Dalt
MUNICIPALITY OF ALAIOR
Torre d'en Galmés
Torralba d'en Salord
Cami des cavalls and La Mola
Cami des cavalls
Re-opened and returned to the public domain in 2010, the Cami des Cavalls (horse path) has a historical and cultural value to which the Menorcans are very attached. Its origins date back to the era of King Jaime II, who is said to have ordered the knights to patrol the entire coast to defend the island and its inhabitants. The path would therefore be the consequence of this royal order. Today, the path is signposted and approved as GR223, making it an ideal route for all types of excursions. On foot, by bicycle or on horseback, joining the 20 stops of this 185 km trail is one of the best ways to discover the great richness of Menorca's heritage and nature.
La Mola
Fortress of La Mola
Location: MAHON
Tel: 0034 686 659 400
Numerous castles, fortifications and military batteries testify to the island's military past. The fortress of La Mola is the most imposing of the fortified constructions. It was built during the reign of Elizabeth II between 1850 and 1875 and was intended to protect the port of Mahon. Fortunately, it has never been attacked and has retained all its splendor. That's all the better for its visitors! On foot or by buggy, you can explore its towers, its defensive buildings, its main fortress, and even its underground. Audio Guides are available at the entrance of the site: ideal for discovering all the secrets of the fortress.
The 7 lighthouses
The lighthouses, which are a guide for navigators, have become emblems of the Minorcan coastline. From the oldest, the Cavalleria lighthouse, to the to the most recent, the Favaritx lighthouse, the seven lighthouses continue to fulfil their function today. Throughout your stay and your discoveries in the 4 corners of the island, don't miss the opportunity to admire these fascinating silhouettes. In summer, we advise you to savour the last light of the day at the Punta Nati lighthouse or the Cavalleria lighthouse on the north coast.
After reading the guide to the must-sees in Menorca, there's only one thing left to do: pack your bags and enjoy the holiday!
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