30 essential things to do in Minorca

1. Take a stroll through the old town of Ciutadella

Ciutadella is located in the western part of the island of Menorca. Once the island's capital, today the administrative capital is Mahón. Ciutadella's cobbled streets, the characteristic Mediterranean-style buildings, and its unique ensembles and squares are well worth a stroll (at any time of day).

In a road map with the essential things to visit in Ciutadella, you should not miss the Santa María Cathedral, the Municipal Museum of Ciutadella in the Bastió de Sa Font, the Town Hall building, the Castle of San Nicolás or its charming port.

2. Visit Ses Pedres de s'Hostal (the stones of S'Hostal)

Recommending a visit to an old abandoned quarry is not something very common, but Ses Pedres is worth it. It is on the outskirts of Ciutadella, about three kilometres away. It is a very photogenic place and is therefore an unusual visit.

The quarry was abandoned in 1994 and some surprising geometric shapes remain from the sandstone extraction works. The surrounding gardens, the orchards adapted to the site are part of the charm of a place that has been described as a 'stone labyrinth'.

3. Visiting the Cova d'en Xoroi cave

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This is a classic in the chapter of what to see in Menorca. The cave is a natural cavity in one of the cliffs of Cala en Porter in Alaior. You have to drop in at dusk. This is the most romantic moment.

Unfortunately access to the cave is not free, but it is well worth it. At night it becomes the most famous discotheque in Menorca, where theme parties are organised, especially on summer days. Address: Calle Sa Cova, 2, Alaior. Telephone: +34 971 377 236.

4. Let yourself be seduced by the local gin

The suggestion is to visit the facilities of the Xoriguer gin distillery. Gin is one of the cultural curiosities left behind by the British who dominated the island in the 18th century.

Xoriguer gin is made with ingredients from local plant species kept secret by the family that owns the distillery. An opportunity to bring a product from Menorca as a gift, as original as it is typical. Address: Moll de Ponent 91, Mahón. Telephone: +34 971 36 21 97.

Does Menorca appeal to you? You won't go wrong with your choice for your holidays. Wherever you stay you will be fine, but it never hurts to know a little about the best places to stay in Menorca: Where to stay in Menorca.

5. Climb Monte Toro

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This is one of the most typical and recommended hiking routes to do in Menorca. Monte Toro is the highest mountain on the island, although its peak is only 358 metres above sea level. The views from the heights of Monte Toro are superb. On clear days you can even see the island of Mallorca on the horizon. The two islands are only 35 kilometres apart.

The path up the mountain is very well marked at the exit of the town of Es Mercadal, in the centre of the island. At the top, you can also see the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Monte Toro, built in the 17th century. The sanctuary is home to a community of cloistered nuns.

The figure of a miniature Christ the Redeemer gives the place a special charm. A small restaurant-café with its panoramic terrace allows you to take a break before walking back the way you came.

6. Coves to fall in love with Menorca

No guide to the island of Menorca would be complete without reference to one of its assets: its coves. Small open bathing areas on the island's rugged coastline. Some are on rocks; others have sandy bottoms. Some are more isolated and difficult to find, more solitary; others are more popular and perfect for family holidays.

It is very difficult to select the best island coves from among the 128 that surround the island, but below I recommend some of the best coves and beaches in Menorca, in this case for their particular beauty, to enjoy the island of Menorca:

Cala Pregonda

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It is located in the north of the island and is one of the most beautiful. It is very isolated. It is a 30-minute walk from where you leave your car to the cove. You can also go by boat, kayak or jet ski. It is well worth the effort. Location: on the coast of Es Mercadal and Ferreries. To the west of Fornells beach (6 kilometres).

Pilar Cove

This cove is another of the most paradisiacal and secluded coves on the island. It is also located on the north coast. It has an extraordinary attraction: with the mud from the nearby cliffs, it has become fashionable to take mud baths.

However, this is an environmentally unfriendly activity, as it deprives the local vegetation of its natural soil support and creates artificial cuttings on land that is already sufficiently eroded. Cala Pilar is immediately to the west of Cala Pregonda and can be reached after a short walk. It is on the coast of Ferrerías.

Mitjaneta Cove

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This is a mini cove located next to Mitjana which is very popular on summer days. Mitjaneta is for a select few, there is no room for more than twenty people at any one time.

In summer, the turquoise waters, the bright sand, the white limestone rocks and, perhaps, the blue sky and a bit of wind are the perfect cocktail of this unique beach. And hidden. It is close to Cala Galdana, in the south of Menorca, and, as I said, next to Cala Mitjana.

With such marvellous coves it is not surprising that the most popular tours and almost a must for anyone visiting the island are those that take you by boat along part of the coast and enjoy these marvellous coves.

Among the options you can find are the tours that take you by boat to visit the most spectacular coves in the south of the island

Escorxada Cove

This cove is located to the east of Cala Mitjaneta, in the south of the island. It is in a natural area enclosed by copses of pine trees and bushes. It takes about an hour's walk to reach the bathing area. The reward is a white coastline with spectacular sky-blue waters and a calm sea when the wind blows from the north.

Coves coves

This is a cove with a somewhat peculiar profile located to the east of Cala en Porter on the coast of Alaior. The place has two moments, at high tide and at low tide, when the sea rises or recedes, two times when the profile of this natural amphitheatre changes its appearance.

The beaches, the lines of white sand, are two and both are located on two branches of the inlet separated by vegetation-covered cliffs and connected by land. In the cliffs there is a group of caves that in the Bronze Age were a necropolis.

7. Take time to take a leisurely stroll around the Museum of Menorca

The museum, which is located in Mahón, houses an extensive list of archaeological remains from each of the cultures that settled or developed on the island. From the Talayotic period to the Islamic period, including Roman and Byzantine references.

The permanent exhibition also has historical maps of the island, sculptures and art objects from the 18th to 20th centuries. Admission is free on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and Sundays. Address: Pla des Monestir, Mahón. Telephone: +34 971 350 955.

8. Make time exclusively for Santa Maria Cathedral

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The Cathedral of Santa Maria is the most important church on the island of Menorca. It is, as mentioned above, in Ciutadella. Its oldest remains as a Christian church date back to the 13th century, and they stand on what was once a mosque. Part of the minaret from that construction is still preserved and can be seen above the structure of the temple.

Inside, which is not very large, you should take a close look at the columns that support the roof, the main marble altar and the large vaulted apse. Address: carrer Cal Bisbe Torres, 8. Ciutadella. Telephone: +34 971 380 343.

9. Visit the Military Museum of Menorca

The island was a disputed territory because of its position in the Mediterranean and because it was part of the British Empire (1708-1802). With this background, it is easy to understand why there is an abundance of military constructions on the island. The museum is located in the Bastió de Sa Font (1692), in Ciutadella, in what is today the Municipal Museum of Ciutadella.

In its rooms, you can see plans of the island's defensive constructions, models and other weapons, as well as archaeological remains of different origins. Address: Pla de Sa Font, Ciutadella. Telephone: +34 971 380 297.

10. Enjoy the charm of Binibeca Vell

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Binibeca Vell is a recreated fishing village that was born from nothing in the 1970s. It is one of the most popular attractions to see in Menorca for its photogenic beauty. It is about five kilometres from Mahón.

It was designed by the architect Antonio Sintes and, in essence, it is an urban nucleus made up of cobbled streets with whitewashed houses, all with a Moorish air. The houses that form the labyrinth of narrow streets overlook a tiny port.

There is a renowned restaurant here, Sa Musclera, which offers quality cuisine and also has a cosy bar.

11. Sail along the Menorcan coast

One of the most popular activities for visitors to the island are sailing excursions. You can join a sailing tour visiting some of Menorca's best coves or, if you prefer, take a catamaran excursion.

12. Indulge in the caldereta de Langosta (lobster stew)

If you are one of those who appreciate good gastronomy, you must try the caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), one of the specialities of Menorcan cuisine. Scattered around the island there are excellent restaurants serving Menorcan cuisine where you can enjoy this dish that is so representative of the island.

One of the places with the most tradition and tradition to treat yourself to a lobster stew dinner is the Es Forat restaurant in the Port of Ciutadella.

13. See the Molí de Dalt Ethnological Museum in Sant Lluis

This is an ethnographic museum located in an old windmill. The museum is dedicated to the history and vicissitudes of this construction that was erected by the French at the end of the 18th century.

Special attention should be paid to the information detailed inside about the tools used for the work by the farmers, the life of the local people over time and the peculiarities of the local crafts. Address: calle Sant Lluis, 4. Sant Lluís. Telephone: +34 971 151 084.

14. Get a feel for Menorca's nature in the S'Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve

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This is a protected area located in the northeast of the island. It covers an area of more than 50 square kilometres and you can see up to a hundred different species of birds at different times of the year.

The area has an extensive field of dunes, cliffs, marshes and vegetation of high ecological value. The area has a visitor centre from which guided tours are organised. Address: Mahón-Es Grau road, kilometre 3.5. Mahón. Telephone: +34 971 177 705.

15. Enjoy the delicacies of the Binifadet winery

The bodega opened to the public in 1979 and since then it has been offering local wines with the most exquisite dishes of the island's gastronomy in an atmosphere that is as romantic as it is rustic. The interior decoration of this restaurant in Sant Lluís makes your stay even more pleasant and warm.

One of the specialities that has made the bodega famous is the Binifadet goat's cheese marinated in their own red wine. You should also ask for the wine jams. Visits to the winery are guided, free of charge and include a tasting tour.

Visits are by appointment only and take place every day at around midday. Address: Camí de Ses Barraques. Sant Lluís. Telephone: +34 971 150 715.

16. Take the kids to Splash Sur Menorca

Splash is an ideal water park for families with small children located next to Punta Prima, in the southeast of Menorca. It is the largest water park on the island and has everything children could dream of: water slides, water jets, bucket rides and the best attraction 'The Black Hole'.

For adults looking for a quieter thrill, there are options for rubber rafts on a slow water circuit. For the more adventurous, a swimming pool with a jacuzzi can be a real treat. Address: carrer Equinoccis. Sant Lluis. Telephone: +34 971 159 195.

17. Let yourself be seduced by the magic of the Talayotic settlement of Torralba d'en Salord.

Photo: Anibal Trejo/Shutterstock

The site is an open-air Bronze Age ritual space. It is famous for the so-called Taula de Torralba, a menhir with a heavy stone placed five metres above the ground.

In the area, there are excavated caves, other megaliths and constructions with pillars and walls formed by large rocks. The site, which was home to the island's earliest settlers, is known to date back to around 1700-1400 BC and remained occupied until Roman times, although there is also evidence that it continued to be used in some form until the Middle Ages.

In its heyday, the site must have been home to a population of around 500 inhabitants. The smaller archaeological remains can be seen in the Museum of Menorca. The site is about five kilometres from Alaior.

18. See more of the Talayotic world Where? Well, in Torre d'en Galmés

The site is also an ancient Bronze Age settlement that happens to be the largest in the Balearic Islands. It was home to the first inhabitants of the island. The enclave is located on top of a hill and offers the extra of panoramic views of the southern part of the island territory.

On the site, you can see circular houses and some buildings for religious use. Address: San Bou road. Telephone: +34 902 929 015.

19. See the Naveta d'es Tudons (Naveta d'es Tudons)

More things to see in Menorca, a 3,000-year-old monument, the Naveta d'es Tudons. It is a collective burial chamber made up of walls created by ashlars without mortar. Just stone on stone.

A local legend says that the naveta, because of its size, was built by giants who fought for the love of a girl. This story is an attempt to explain the lack of one of the ashlars at the front of the complex. The reality is simpler.

Inside, human remains, ancient weapons, some bronze jewellery, ceramic bowls and different types of ornaments were found. Location: near Ciutadella.

20. Stroll around the Port of Mahon

Photo: Karol Kozlowsk/Shutterstock

Another activity to do in Minorca is to take a gentle stroll around the port of Mahón. The harbour is said to be the deepest natural shelter turned harbour in the world. Along this long stretch, the town is laid out with a whole host of restaurants, bars and boutiques that are a draw for shopping in the town.

Walking along the waterfront of the bay also allows you to discover a myriad of boats of all sizes. Hour-long boat tours of the harbour area are available.

21. Visit King's Island

King's Island is a small piece of land that housed a military hospital built by the British in 1711 and remained in use until Mahón Island was built in 1964. The island is home to plants unique to Menorca and the remains of an early Christian basilica have been discovered.

22. Kayak along the coastline

Menorca's coastline is full of beautiful unspoilt coves, caves, cliffs and hidden corners where you can take a dip. One of the most popular activities for the more sporty is to rent a kayak and explore some of the island's most interesting stretches of coastline.

You can also opt to join a kayaking and snorkelling excursion.

23. Enter and see Fort Marlborough

More to do in Menorca. Marlborough Fort is a small fortress located just outside the entrance to the port of Mahón, in the southern part of the island. It was built by the British between 1720 and 1726 to defend the city and its port, which at that time was a place of great strategic value.

A Spanish assault on Mahón destroyed the fortress in 1782, which was later rebuilt with some improvements. The defensive construction has a curious heptagonal shape. Address: Cala Sant Esteve, 70. Mahón. Telephone: +34 971 360 462.

24. Something different to do in Menorca: flying and horse riding.

On the island, there is an aeroclub that operates light aircraft from an aerodrome located in the small town of Sant Lluís. The aerodrome was the island's first airport facility until Menorca Airport was built in 1969.

At the aerodrome, air excursions can be booked to fly the length and breadth of the island. Next to the airstrip, there is a racecourse which has a very popular restaurant on the island.

During the winter, the racecourse organises horse races every Saturday (evening) and Sunday (mornings). There is also a go-kart track. Address: Avda J.A. Clavé, 396. Sant Lluís. Telephone: +34 971 361 672.

25. More things to do in Menorca, flying like a bird: paragliding.

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The company Planoram Pragliding offers tandem paragliding flights over Monte Toro, Son Bou or the area of S'Enclusa. Breathtaking views are guaranteed. Flights last between 15 minutes and 30 minutes, depending on the weather conditions at any given time. Address: carrer de San Fernando, 20. Mahón. Telephone: + 34 971 350 043.

26. Something even more interesting to do in Menorca: go on safari.

A different way of getting to know Menorca is by going on safari. Well, more than a safari, a 4×4 excursion that takes you on private roads in the interior of the island, visits some villages, and takes you to unspoilt beaches among other things. Interested? Have a look here.

27. Walk the Camí de Cavalls

Another of the things to do in Menorca. The Camí de Cavalls is a road that circles the entire island of Menorca, a path that was used before the construction of modern roads to connect the island's villages.

Today, its 185 kilometres can be covered on foot, on hiking routes, or by bicycle, crossing a wide variety of ecosystems and places with a lot of history.

28. Festivals to see in Menorca (to feel them from the inside)

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Menorca's festive calendar concentrates its main popular celebrations in the summer months. And, above all of them, the San Juan de Ciutadella festival stands out as the most representative of the island. It is a famous celebration that brings together horsemen and steeds, the former dressed in the old style in representation of the traditional Minorcan trades.

The meeting place is the Cathedral Square in Ciutadella and the dishes and products that make up the local gastronomy come and go. The event takes place on the 23rd and 24th of June. Other outstanding Menorcan festivals not to be missed are those of Gracia, in Mahón. In any case, throughout the summer each locality celebrates its patron saint festivities.

29. La Mola Fortress

One of the most impressive cultural visits is to the Fortaleza de la Mola fortress. This impressive fortress, which was also used as a prison, presides over the entrance to the Port of Mahón. It is worth walking through its labyrinthine passages, admiring its imposing batteries, and enjoying one of the best views of the port of Mahón. Book your ticket here.

30. Buy Menorcan footwear

Did you know that Menorca is one of the regions with the longest tradition of footwear production in Spain? Menorca is home to several well-known brands such as Mascaró and Pons Quintana, and you can buy their shoes directly from their factory shops at great prices. You can also pick up a pair of abarcas (or menorquinas), the typical Menorcan footwear.

Menorca is an island full of charm, you only have to see it to fall in love. You just have to see it to fall in love with it.