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With their eternal sunshine, sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife, the Balearic Islands attract millions of holidaymakers every year. Most tourists visit Ibiza and Mallorca. However, few bother to extend their trip to the smaller island of Menorca (also known as Minorca). A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993, Menorca is blessed with breathtaking landscapes and unspoilt beaches. Many of the island’s gems can only be reached by boat.
Sailing in Menorca, the ultimate Iberian experience
A small island compared to the other Balearic Islands, Menorca can be circumnavigated in a few days. If you opt for sailing in Menorca, you can discover some of its remote calas (coves), accessible by boat only. Hiking lovers on the other hand can follow the Cami de Cavalls, a 185-kilometre walking route. Taking you from one end of the island to the other, the trail passes through deep gorges.
Where to sail in Menorca
Mahon
A good starting point for sailing in Menorca is the Port of Mahon, on the eastern side of the island. It’s a picturesque town with Georgian-style architecture and a large marina. It’s worth visiting the Fortress of La Mola. This fort is a unique monument to the island’s tumultuous history, and a fine sample of British and Spanish influences. You will also enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea. Opposite the port is Isla del Rey, where one of the oldest military hospitals in the world is located.
Es Port de Fornells
On the north side of the island, 25 nm from Mahon, is Fornells. It’s a picturesque fishing village located in a sheltered bay. Small and traditional, this Iberian haven is famous for its delicious cuisine. The restaurants here serve a local speciality: Caldereta de langosta (lobster stew). If you have time, you can also sail to Isla Colom. It’s a small Iberian paradise that’s part of the national park de s’Albufera des Grau.
Ciutadella
The town of Ciutadella, on the eastern side, was the original capital and commercial hub of the island, until the British moved it to Mahon. Picturesque and beautiful, it boasts medieval cobbled streets, an old quarter and the splendid palaces of Salort and Torre-Saura. The port here has 170 berths and can take boats with a maximum length of 23 meters.
If you’re here in early summer, don’t miss the opportunity to attend the Fiesta de Sant Joan on 24 June. It’s one of the biggest fêtes in the country. It combines equestrian games, parades, cavalcades, performances by artists and all sorts of festivities such as hazelnut battles.
Weather in Menorca
Menorca is blessed by almost endless sunshine round the year. Summer winds averaging 3-4 Beaufort, so ideal for sailing in Menorca. One exception is Tramontana, a strong north wind blowing off from the mountains that can hinder sailing. In the summer, temperatures can reach 40 °C, although normally they tend to range between 25 and 35 °C.
