MENORCA has been named one of Spain’s best hidden gems by The Times, which describes the Balearic island as a ‘quietly cool’ alternative to its busier neighbours.
Ibiza and Mallorca often overshadow Menorca, with just around 1.76 million of the 19 million holidaymakers who visited the Balearics last year choosing to stay on the island.
In particular, The Times highlights the island’s pristine beaches, rich history, gastronomy and growing arts scene.
Beaches
Menorca is renowned for its beaches, known for crystal-clear waters and golden sands.
Spots such as Cala Macarella, Cala en Turqueta and Cala Mitjana are among the most popular, but visitors will still find it far easier to secure a sunbathing spot here than in Ibiza or Mallorca.
In the north, the coastline gives way to striking red-hued beaches such as Cala Pregonda and Cala Pilar, while the south is home to long stretches of white sand like Son Saura and a string of idyllic coves.
History
Menorca boasts a rich historical heritage, reflected in its architecture, traditions and well-preserved towns.
The old town of Ciutadella, the island’s former capital, is a maze of cobbled streets, plazas and historic buildings.
Meanwhile, the current capital Mahon features elegant Georgian architecture overlooking a harbour which is a popular spot for touring yachts.
If you’re looking to learn more about Menorca’s history, head to the Museo de Menorca or the Torre d’en Galmes, an archaeological site dating back to around 1600 BCE.
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Gastronomy
The island’s food scene is also singled out, with Menorca offering a blend of traditional Balearic cuisine and modern Mediterranean dining.
Local dishes such as lobster stew, sobrasada and stuffed aubergines are essential tasting during any visit, alongside standout local produce like Mahon cheese.
With a remarkably long history, Mahon-Menorca cheese is believed to have origins dating back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting cheesemaking on the island as far back as 2000 BCE.
Cheese lovers can even take part in guided farm tours and cheese tastings showcasing the produce of the island.
If you’re looking for fine dining, Menorca also offers a range of high-end restaurants.
A particular standout is Godai in Ciutadella, a Japanese-Menorcan fusion restaurant serving Japanese classics with a Menorcan twist.
One of its signature dishes is a Japanese take on the traditional lobster stew.
Arts scene
The Times also highlights Menorca’s growing arts scene, singling out the Hauser & Wirth gallery as a key example of the island’s cultural offering.
With exhibitions showcasing the work of leading contemporary artists and an outdoor path lined with contemporary sculptures, it’s a must visit for art lovers.
The gallery is also surrounded by gardens with a range of native Mallorcan plants and the gallery has its own restaurant, Cantina, which serves seasonal dishes made with local produce.
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