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’.
