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Menorca overview

OverviewMenorca has well over 100 beaches, each of them with their own character and facilities. Many are extremely child friendly, making them perfect for family holidays, but there are also secluded coves, which are popular with those taking tailor made holidays. Spain has long been highly prized amongst those seeking cheap summer holidays and Menorca is no exception.   Resorts  Those taking well earned cheap family holidays might want to consider the beach of Sant Luis; not only is it unspoilt and postcard-perfect, it has a long, protected bay that makes for very safe swimming. Cala Galdana in the Ferreries region offers a beautiful pine fringed bay that has many facilities, such as bars and restaurants. This beach, known as the ‘Queen of the Calas’, is also excellent for water sports, such as sailing, diving and water skiing. Cala’n Bosch is another of the island’s major resorts, a family friendly and seriously laid back vacation spot that has something for everyone.  Activities But there is more to Menorca than powdery beaches and aquamarine waters. For those wanting to add a cultural edge to their Menorca holiday, the island has been described as a ‘living museum’. A holiday here will introduce you to the remains of prehistoric civilizations in the form of imposing monoliths (taulas), prehistoric burial chambers (navetas) and stone age watchtowers (talyots) that appear all over the island. If architecture is more your style, consider a visit to the fortress at the end of Mahon arbour, La Mola. Not only is the craftsmanship awe-inspiring, but the battlements also provide stunning views of the east side of Menorca.  Food Food is an important part of life on this island and everything seems to stop at meal times. Being surrounded by crystal waters, fish and seafood are extremely popular and extremely fresh! Local specialities include caldereta de llagosta, a lobster stew that has its roots in Menorca’s peasant history, but is a favourite of King Juan. Desserts are also very popular and Menorcans have their own ice cream, La Menorquina. Menorca is also a gin producing island and the local Xoriguer Gin is consumed in abundance. Traditionally, it is drunk neat, or with a local liqueur or a lemon squash to make ‘pomada’, which is the drink of choice during the many fiestas that take place across the island. A Menorca holiday will introduce you to a lively, vibrant culture and leave you in no doubt as to why the island is known as ‘The Jewel of the Balearics’.

Five of the Finest Menorca Beaches by Brenda Jaaback

Menorca is famed as one of the most relaxing holiday destinations in Europe. Less touristic than Mallorca or the Costas, it offers a traditional island culture, relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural attractions. There are numerous outstanding hotels, apartments and villas in Menorca and there's plenty to see and do on the island, from the horse show in Cala Galdana to the panoramic sights from the summit of Mount Toro. But without a doubt the biggest attraction for a holiday in Menorca is going to be the beaches.
The island has more beaches than Ibiza and Mallorca put together, ranging from long, bustling beaches to peaceful little coves. Whether you want to enjoy fully developed beaches close to the hotels and villas of Menorca or secluded stretches of sand where you can swim and sunbathe in peace and quiet, you are sure to find a beach here that is perfect for your needs. Here are five of the very best beaches on the island…
Cala Pregonda
Perhaps the finest secluded beach on the island, this stunning bay features crystal clear water and is backed by tamarisk and pine woods. It is unspoilt, with a few nearby Menorca villas the only local buildings. It is hard to get to, a twenty minute walk from Binimella, but the effort is well worth it.
Punta Prima
Located in the far south east of the island, this beach is a long, attractive stretch of sand that is well populated with bars and restaurants. The strong currents mean that it is sometimes not safe for swimming, but the beautiful sand and stunning vistas more than make up for it. Parents should supervise their children at all times due to the strong waters.
Cala Santa Galdana
Cala Galdana is one of the best beaches on the island, combining plenty of facilities with a beautiful and unspoilt beach. This horseshoe bay is the most photographed beach on the island, and it is especially good for those on a family holiday in Menorca due to its safe shallow waters. But adults will delight in the natural beauty that surrounds Cala Galdana.
Son Bou
Son Bou is the longest beach in Menorca, a glorious 3 km piece of sand that has plenty of bars and watersports facilities to keep visitors entertained. It is big and usually packed solid, so it isn't the place to go for privacy, but it is one of the finest large beaches on the island. Make sure you check the flags on the beach before you swim, as the currents can be strong.
Es Grau
Located close to Mahon, the capital of the island, Es Grau is one of the most naturally beautiful beaches on the island. The shallow waters in this horseshoe shaped bay are great for family bathing, and just behind the beach is the wetland park of Albufeira, a stunning national park filled with wildlife and fauna.
Whether you want to stay in a resort hotel or a secluded rural villa in Menorca, or are there for a family holiday or a romantic getaway, you are sure to find a nearby Menorca beach that is perfect for your needs!
About the Author
Brenda Jaaback is the ¬Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you a choice of hand picked Menorca villas, resorts and retreats in prime locations for all your family holiday needs.

Top Five Resorts in Menorca

Menorca sits like a beautiful teardrop in the Mediterranean, just south of France and east of the Spanish mainland. As you can imagine, the weather is balmy, the sea is clear and the air is clean, crisp and fresh. It's almost as if Menorca was designed with resorts and relaxation in mind, and we believe that visitors to the island should experience this to the full. Indeed, Menorca has many villas, apartments, and resorts that lift your enjoyment to the highest possible level. We count down the top five resorts on the island for a perfect mix of relaxation and fun.
5. Binibeca
A great little resort on Menorca's south eastern tip, Binibeca starts our count down in style. The resort leans towards the relaxed rather than active end of the scale, with the surrounding areas being peppered with well presented Menorcan villas. The sparkling white of the villas creates a pleasing tableau amongst the area's sloping, wooded hills, while the warm Mediterranean wind completes the picture. It's instantly relaxing and welcoming from your first moment there, and there's a palpable feeling of a weight being lifted.
The choice of catering options is wide, but if you choose to go self catered your stay is even more secluded. Food packs can be set for when you arrive, and when you need supplies you will find most of your needs locally as well as some good bars and restaurants for eating out. Further facilities can be found in Sant Lluis just a short drive away. The row of shops has all the necessities you will need, as well as some bars and restaurants for eating out. All in all, Binibeca is just a great place to lose yourself, relax and unwind.
4. Torre Soli Nou
Torre Soli Nou is a step up from Binibeca in terms of seclusion and relaxation. Villas in this part of Menorca fit with the even more laid back attitude of the area. Situated in the bay of Son Bou, the resort gives you complete control over your choice of experience; you can walk to San Jamie, enjoy the wide variety of beautiful flora and fauna or just sunbathe on the beach. The area is entirely as you want it to be.
3. Santo Tomas
To the west of Torre Soli Nou is Santo Tomas, a resort with a greater feeling of community. Wide wooden walkways, bars and excellent local restaurants are populated but not as brimming as some parts of Menorca; Villas and apartments in the area create a neighbourly feeling, as does most of the local area. This small, community feel also extends to the nearby Es Mijorn Gran, a village with many different attractions, from churches to cafés, and the host of the colourful Festival of St Christopher in late July (the perfect time to see the area at its best). Santo Tomas creates a family feeling while keeping your own relaxation to a maximum.
2. San Jamie
San Jamie is an oasis of Menorcan villas and apartments set against a background of endless beach and azure blue waters. Instantly relaxing, the resort is within easy reach of a wildlife conservation area, an iron age fort, children's play areas and the local complex, which offers a varied selection of entertainment, bars, restaurants and shops. The resort is more active than some others, which increases the amount of choices available to holiday makers in terms of relaxation versus activity. A perfect destination for those looking for a wide range of opportunity while in Menorca.
1. Cala Galdana
Universally acknowledged as one of the jewels in Menorca's crown, Cala Galdana is the final resort of choice on our list. The perfect mix of unspoilt sands, enjoyable and relaxed nightlife, long walks, and secluded spots to read or sunbathe. The great profusion of options and experiences on offer mean that the resort is also family friendly, with different activities available to cater to all tastes. The area has everything, and epitomises the very best aspects of the island as a whole.
Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you a choice of hand picked Menorca villas, resorts and retreats in prime locations for all your family holiday needs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brenda_Jaaback

Menorca is the Place to Be

Once you take your first look at the tropical palms casting forgiving shade on these golden, soft sand beaches, and realise there are an abundance of these picture perfect beaches available to you and your family, Menorca will have you captivated. As well as the scenic beaches Menorca boasts a well established holiday location with the tourist in mind, that has not turned into a cheesy beachside resort.
The restaurants and cafes are high quality and not highly expensive, the outside activities range from snorkelling to pirate themed cruises and the family friendly atmosphere all over the island makes this the perfect place to bring your family for a summer holiday in the sunshine.
The majority of hotels or holiday rentals will have facilities suitable for babies and young children up to teens so your kids can occupy themselves while you have a well earned rest on that sun bed or catch up with the novel you've been meaning to read.
If you and your family enjoy having some well earned fun while you're on holiday you can take advantage of the many water parks, marine zoos and beaches that are spread across the island. If you're after an afternoon of relaxation, why not take a trip on a boat and have lunch on the deck? Perhaps a walk around a white washed traditional village is more to your liking, as you take in the dusty landscape that falls below your feet.
Menorca manages to maintain its "isolated" feel while at the same time being very accessible. You won't have to go far to find a modern supermarket for that specific brand of soda or a doctors surgery in an emergency. You'll also be able to rely on a traditional butchers and green grocers if you prefer it.
When it comes to finding a destination that will cater for almost any family, Menorca is a winner. If you're still not convinced, just look up some other reviews!
For sun dazzling holidays on this serene island, explore for cheap holidays on offer. Last minute holidays are abundant in supply at this time of year, so take benefit!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Quirk

Visiting Menorca

Covering 702 square kilometers with 216 kilometres of coastline and despite being a fairly flat island with no great mountains, Menorca has many natural treasures and a variety of landscapes which include lagoons, marshes, small springs and smooth hills.
The natural variety of the island is extremely wide and a real treasure with deep gorges starting from the insides of the island and winding their way towards the southern coast. These ravines are authentic, holding a variety of flora with 220 species, which cohabit, with the remains of mares stone quarries and prehistoric constructions. Marine species of special interest are those found in the more than ten underwater caves which aren't found anywhere else. As well as these underwater caves, Menorca bears over fifty inland caves to explore. Menorca is extremely cultural and it's passion is particularly expressed with the Sant Joan festivities, where the Menorcan horse breed becomes the one and only protagonist, as well as the variety of handicraft created by the most skilled hands of the island or the expressiveness of its atavistic folk jigs. Menorca has always been the birthplace of different artistic personalities.
The continuous exposure to such beauty of the island has inspired writers, painters and sculptors, as well as musicians; a unique muse for its best symphonies. Local festivities are celebrated during the summer throughout the different towns and such events are the best proof of the traditional Menorcan customs. The starting point of these festivities, and considered the most popular, are held in Ciutadella between the 23rd and 24th of June. Menorcan craftsmanship, includes an authentic and variable form of modeling beauty. Some examples of this diverse craftsmanship are master woodworkers of farming tools, fashion jewellers, pottery, blacksmiths, cheese makers and boat makers of llauts (menorcan vessels). Menorca offers the most natural way of experiencing sport - the island is lined across with countless country paths to discover. These can be enjoyed by walking along established routes or by bike, taking advantage of its flatness or experiencing an exciting feeling of freedom on horseback along the coastline. The "Cami de Cavalls" (a path originally created to take by horseback which surrounds the island) is recommended in order to capture the charm of the Menorcan coastline as it follows the island's entire outline. The sea breeze helps to create the best atmosphere to fight back the heat and enjoy the fresh air and all excursions allow for some common stops - the many coves and beaches where to recover and refresh in the privileged waters.
The Camí d'en Kane, made during the British dominion, is an appropriate route for two wheelers, which offers the opportunity to get together with the essence of the old rural scenery. Known as the Island of wind, Menorca is great for sailing and windsurfing. A number of companies rent out different kinds of vessels or offer excursions to any of the beautiful beaches where you can enjoy a wonderful dip in the Mediterranean or a dive into its depths. If you practise scuba-diving in Menorca you will fall in love with its transparent waters. Its sea bottoms are an enchanting forest of unique plants and marine species, caves, light effects and shipwrecks. Diving in the Protected Area at the north of the island is a real underwater adventure where lobsters and basses can be seen as they move about freely. After so many thrills, you can relax with a game of golf with the advantage being the climate, which allows for play at any time of the year. By being located close to the sea and surrounded by nature, golf can be played within an incomparably quiet scenery. Most towns host handicraft markets every week, where real handmade works of art are exhibited. A ritual not to be missed is a walk through the stalls at Calas Fonts, Fornells or the Ciutadella Port; idyllic sceneries next to the sea where you can feel a special atmosphere. The town centres and main tourist centres are packed with exclusive shops where you can purchase the latest models of clothing and footwear.
Shoe manufacturing in Menorca is still very important, as it has been in the past. Search for your own paradise near the sea at the island's exquisite restaurants and taste the freshest products withdrawn from the Mediterranean. There is no other moment better than this to enjoy the calm roll of the sea on a terrace while trying to discover the ingredients of the Caldereta de Langosta (lobster stew): the island's best held secret. The Menorcan cooking is a rich traditional expression which has passed on from parents to children, a wise combination of ingredients offered by the island's fertile soil and recipes that have adapted to modern proposals without losing a speck of its taste. Menorca hides many secrets. It is said that the strong gusts of tramontana wind soak the grazing fields with sea salt. This is why the cattle are so fond of it and explains why the cheese has that special bouquet. The original cheese of Menorca is one of the most appreciated in the world. Menorca is also open to entertainment. Enjoy magical nights at concerts at unbelievable sceneries such as a stone-quarry. Or feel the beat within an impressive cave rebuilt into a disco, hanging over a breathtaking cliff on the coast, where the trendiest DJ's meet or dance until sunrise at any of the terraces along the ports of Maó or Ciutadella. If you prefer peace and quiet, you can also enjoy an authentic Menorcan night at one of the fishermen caves at Cala Corb, listening to traditional sailor's songs accompanied by the captain's guitar who is willing to let anyone play it and share his artistic knowledge. Visit Menorca and delight your senses!
For further travel advise and accommodation in Menorca visit http://www.choicetravelinfo.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kay_Gordon

Mediterranean Sailing Holidays

There are many cruise and sailing options that offer you the wonderful sights and beautiful landscape of the Western Mediterranean Sea. Popular stops include Malta, Italy, Sicily, Tunisia and Spain. Many cruises actually make a stop on the island of Mallorca, the main island of the Balearics, which has a large expat community, but often overlook the other two main islands, including Ibiza and Menorca.
However, cruises weren't quite for me. I felt I wasn't ready for the large cruise ships quite yet and the large crowds that come with it once you hit the shore. And as for which island, I wasn't quite keen on Ibiza, which has more of a late night mentality, with casino's and clubs located throughout. Though it is a stunning island, and there are some private yacht charter trips that go from Ibiza to nearby Formentera within a day, which in fact is quite a relaxing route. One can view Ibiza's coastline and cliffs and get away from the crowd, finding a cove where you can anchor your yacht for the afternoon.
Still, for the best combination of both, Menorca is still my top choice out of the Balearic Islands. Even with more flights available to Menorca from Gatwick this year than previously, it still felt like Menorca had that calmer easy-going feel to it. Gentle, relaxed and tranquil year round, Menorca is the right combination for all types of visitors. From the relaxed sunbathers to the eager deep seas divers and watersport enthusiasts, attracted by the local cuisine and scenic coastline, it has the best of all worlds, but particularly the one where I want to detach from the faster paced life back in the city. And even the nightlife carries a different vibe, such as "The Caves of Xuroi", which is located halfway down the cliffs above the sea of Cala'n Porter, where the dancing goes well into the night.
There are many offers that package holiday villas along with sailing holidays or private yacht charter services in Menorca, however, from experience it works best to perhaps pick and choose from each category individually. With single day excursions barely over a hundred euros per person, independently owned local companies such as Go Nautic can not only provide a good price (even by today's exchange rate standards), but also add the benefit of local experience. It always helps to have someone who knows the nooks and crannies of the coastline and where the best kept secrets are. And of course, a touch of hospitality is always welcome, and having the daily yacht charter excursions include a delicious three course meal, with drinks included was a nice touch. Few yacht charter services offer a catering service of this quality, and if you contact them in advance, one can choose various dishes in their menu.
Should you want it all to yourself though, they also offer weekly charter trips that can take you around the Balearic Islands, which include Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Come to think about it, I guess you actually can have it all.
Mark Smith is a travel journalist who explores the far reaches of the earth, by sea of course. From urban delights to remote islands, he reviews the wide range of nautical travel available. This month he looks at Yacht charter holidays and Sailing in Menorca and will be focusing on the top Mediterreanean hotspots through the year.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_J_Smith