15 Best Things To Do In Menorca

Menorca is the smallest of the Balearic Islands, the name “Menorca” means smaller island, which is true as Menorca is the smallest island compared to neighbouring islands, Mallorca and Ibiza. I’ve now been to Menorca three times, as my fiancés parents live on the island and there’s still things we haven’t had chance to do!

The island has a relaxed approach to life. After visiting, it’s easy to understand why so many people return year after year. Some (like my fiancés parents) decide to live and work on the island. Some people decide to retire and move to Menorca.

I’ve put together my list of the 15 best things to do in Menorca. Some we’ve experienced and my fiancé has taught me a lot about the island, other things are still on our to do list as we haven’t had chance to do those yet (such as visiting the gin distillery).

1. Cales Fonts, Es Castell

Cales Fonts is honestly like it’s own world, it’s just so incredibly beautiful. Enjoy a beautiful walk along the harbour. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, but it’s a lovely and peaceful part of the island. This is a must visit for any photographer, as the views are stunning.

 

2. Sample Menorca’s popular gin

I haven’t actually had chance to do this on my visits so far, but this is definitely one on my list for future visits to the island. Menorca was a British Port over 200 years ago and the British left their influence. The XORIGUER Mahon Gin Distillery is apparently a must visit!

3. Visit La Mola

La Mola is an impressive 19th century fortress. On our visit to the island this year, we finally got round to visiting La Mola. It was a hot day when we visited, but in my opinion it was well worth exploring. If your idea of a good day is strolling around a historical site, then this is perfect for you. We both enjoyed the walk, plus the views are also beautiful.

 

4. Relax and enjoy a Pomada

A pomada is the Menorcan twist on a gin and tonic. The tonic is replaced with their own fizzy lemonade. A pomada is the perfect drink to enjoy whilst relaxing, watching a beautiful sunset.

5. Grab a bite to eat from Sa Botiga de son Vilar

My fiancés parents, Di and Steve, run a wonderful little café. It’s called Sa Botiga de Son Vilar and is open from Monday – Saturday. Di (Tom’s mum) bakes all of the tasty treats herself (minus the croissants). The café is located between Mahón and Es Castell. If you’re looking for a bite to eat for breakfast or lunch, I’d definitely recommend visiting. You’ll be given a warm welcome from Tom’s parents.

 

6. Explore Menorca’s Biosphere Reserve

Menorca was officially named a Biosphere Reserve in 1993, to protect the natural beauty of the island, including its animals and wildlife. On my second visit to Menorca, we had a stroll around Park S’Albufera d’es Grau Nature Reserve. It is a Natural Park, which covers 50sqkm (19sqmi) of forest, marshland, dunes and cliffs, including five small islands. It’s home to a wide range of wildlife, including many species of birds. Guided tours can also be arranged.

7. 1 hour boat trip around the Port of Mahón

There are a few different options for trips by boat in Menorca, but during our most recent visit we decided to do the 1 hour boat trip around the Port of Mahon. It was a wonderful and informative tour into the history of Mahon, where we had the opportunity to see this part of the island from different angles. The tour was available in five different languages.

8. Discover Binibeca

Binibeca is a small resort town, which was built in the 1970s. It was designed to replicate a fishing village atmosphere. Binibeca is popular amongst influencer-types who want to get an Instagram-worthy photo amongst the white buildings.

 

9. Treat yourself and buy some Menorcan sandals

These were once the footwear of Menorcan farmers. Avarcas sandals took off as a trend and you will notice people wearing them/spot them in many of the shoe shops. They come in a variety of colours and patterns, there is something to match all tastes. I bought a pair of glittery blue ones during one of my visits last year.

10. Sushi at Sushi Es Castell

This is our go-to place for food when we’re wanting have dinner in Es Castell. On all three of our visits to Menorca so far, we’ve ate at Sush Es Castell at least twice. For the majority of those dining experiences, we’ve both chosen to have the sushi as it’s our favourite. The dishes are always beautifully presented.

 

11. Explore Cuitadella

If you enjoy street cafés, cobbled alleyways and a stunning cathedral – you will love exploring Cuitadella. It was the original Menorcan capital, before Mahon took over. I’ve only visited Cuitadella once, but I would love to visit again and explore some more.

12.  Go up Monte Toro

Monte Toro is the tallest point on the island, it’s a mountain which is 358 metres above sea level. It makes for some of the best and most beautiful views across the island. Monte Toro has been a shrine and place of pilgrimage since the 13^th century. Many believe it to be the spiritual centre of the island.

13. Visit the zoo – Lloc de Minorca

Lloc de Minorca is one of the top 10 recommendations on Trip Advisor, of places to visit in Menorca. There are a variety of different animals, an aquarium, pre-historic monuments, picnic areas, a souvenir shop and of course, important if you have children, a playground. Stroll around the zoo, looking at the animals and learn more about them. My advice would be, don’t rush around – take your time and enjoy a day out at the zoo. The facilities are clean and the priority is clearly the animals welfare.

14. Patatas bravas

Two beautiful words… patatas bravas. I swear one day I will write a blog post dedicated to the best places to get patatas bravas in Menorca. I am obsessed. What could be better than fried potatoes and spicy mayo?! Patatas bravas is one of Spain’s most popular tapas dishes. The bravas photographed above is definitely one of my favourites, from El Chivito (located in Es Castell).

15. Enjoy a delicious cocktail in Bar Lemon

Bar Lemon is one of our favourite bars to visit in Menorca, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful cocktail and watch the world go by. Run by husband and wife team, Juan and Carla, Juan’s cocktails are worth the cost. You will always receive a friendly service from Carla (and other members of staff during peak season).

 

If you liked reading this blog post and are thinking about visiting Menorca, you may enjoy 10 Things To Know Before Travelling To Menorca.