The Little Known Island Of Menorca

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 46
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The second largest Balearic Island may not be as glamorous as its siblings but Menorca has a charm and appeal all of its own. Even though it''s smaller than big sister Mallorca it still has an equal number of beaches and here you can have a beach all to yourself in the height of summer. Menorca is the least discovered of the Balearics.

Start in the understatedly pretty capital, Mao. The port is the second largest natural deep water port in the world after Pearl Harbour and is truly impressive but the rest of the city has plenty of appeal if you spend some time wandering its compact streets.

In 1993, UNESCO designated the entire island a Biosphere Reserve and more than 75% of the territory is now protected. If you''re lucky you can watch the last of the Mediterranean turtles as well as rare birds and other protected species. The best place to spy protected wild animals is in the Parc Natural S''Albufera des Grau.

Menorca brings out the inquisitive explorer in all of us. From rock climbing its rugged cliffs to making use of the brisk winds buffeting the north of the island to go windsurfing. Alternatively, ...
... if being in the water is more your thing, the rocky coastline means snorkelling around the headlands and dramatic rock formations will be very rewarding.

The island also has its own version of Stonehenge. Trepuco and Torre d''en Galmes are found on the island''s interior, and like other prehistoric stone monuments, no one really knows what these giant stone formations actually mean but they provide a breathtaking spot for a picnic.

The island has more cultural and architectural gems such as the old capital Ciutadella which is an elegant example of Moorish architecture and at Sanseria you can explore Phoenician remains. Although the hike is hard work, the views you can enjoy from the small Baroque church clinging to the top of Monte Toro make it worth it.

The beaches in Menorca are arguably some of the best in the Balearics. Dark red sand beaches meet rocky limestones cliffs and pine-lined coves provide an alternative view of paradise. The best beaches are hidden and accessed through thick lines of pine, olive and lemon trees. The pick of the bunch are Cala Macareletta, Cala Galdana, Cala del Pilar and Cala Trebaluger.

Exploring all these ''secret'' sites requires a car. You can hire one upon arrival from the airport. Bonny Kominek is very fond of the Balearic islands and has been going to Menorca for years. Getting cheap car hire Menorca is essential, you can get a very cheap one at Ritmocars.co.uk