A calm Balearic island with unspoiled coastlines and pine-covered mountains. Mahón's old town has narrow streets and a lively harbor. Local dialect and cuisine add unique flavor.
Minorca, the easternmost of Spain's Balearic Islands, is a calm destination with over 200 kilometers of coastline. You can explore secluded coves and white sand beaches like Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana. The island has numerous prehistoric sites, including the Naveta d'es Tudons near Ciutadella. In the towns of Mahón and Ciutadella, you'll see architecture from various historical periods, such as Georgian-style buildings and Gothic cathedrals. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Minorca maintains much of its natural environment and traditional way of life.
Exploring Minorca's Beaches
Minorca has over 100 beaches, from long stretches of white sand to small, rocky coves. On the south coast, Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana have clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. The northern coast has more rugged beaches like Cala Pregonda, with reddish sand and distinctive rock formations. Many beaches are only accessible by foot or boat, which helps maintain their natural state.
Historic Towns: Mahón and Ciutadella
Mahón, the island's capital, is located on cliffs overlooking one of the world's largest natural harbors. The town has many Georgian-style buildings on narrow streets, a result of its British colonial history. You can visit the fish market and try local gin at the Xoriguer Gin Distillery. On the western end of the island, Ciutadella has cobblestone streets and a Gothic cathedral. During the Festival of Sant Joan in June, the town hosts horse parades and traditional games.
Prehistoric Minorca
Minorca has over 1,500 prehistoric sites. The Naveta d'es Tudons, near Ciutadella, is a significant megalithic site. This stone structure, shaped like an upturned boat, dates back to 1000 BC and was used as a collective tomb. At Torre d'en Galmés, the largest prehistoric settlement on the island, you can walk among the remains of ancient dwellings and structures from the Talaiotic period.
Natural Parks and Reserves
The S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park in the northeast is a wetland area where many bird species live. You can hike on trails through the park to see local plants and animals. From Monte Toro, the highest point on the island, you can see much of Minorca and, when the sky is clear, even parts of Mallorca.
Local Cuisine and Wine
Minorca's cuisine features fresh seafood and locally-produced ingredients. You can try caldereta de langosta, a rich lobster stew, or sobrassada, a cured sausage spread. The island produces its own cheese, Mahón-Menorca, which has Protected Designation of Origin status. In recent years, Minorca has revived its wine-making tradition. You can visit wineries like Binifadet or Hort Sant Patrici to taste local varieties.
Getting Around Minorca
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Minorca, as public transportation can be limited. The island has one main road connecting Mahón and Ciutadella, with smaller roads leading to coastal areas and inland villages. Many people enjoy cycling, especially along the Camí de Cavalls, a 185-kilometer trail that circles the island's coast.
