About menorca
The peaceful isle. Jewel of the Med. Mallorca’s little sister. The Balearic island of Menorca has had many names. But it is singular in character and culture. Just 47km long and 19km wide, it has a surprising 200km of coastline with over 120 beaches. The eastern-most point of Spain, it is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise-blue seas thriving with marine life, and enjoys more than 320 days of sunshine a year. Unspoilt by development, the island is a natural haven to wildlife, earning Menorca the coveted distinction of being a UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve.
Rich history
Menorca boasts an astounding number of pre-historic sites, over 1000, many from the Talayotic period, and is often referred to as an ‘open air museum´. The original Moorish capital was Ciutadella at the island’s extreme western end, and the city’s heritage can be seen reflected in the stunningly elegant Moorish architecture and Mediterranean feel of the whole city. The modern capital is Mahon, featuring many historic buildings with colonial-style features and the world’s second deepest natural harbour.
Population & climate
Average summer temperatures are around 27C and average winters14C, with sea temperatures to match. Menorca’s resident population is around 75,000 and the local languages are Castellano Spanish and Catalan, sprinkled with colourful Menorcan words and phrases. Popular with the British, there is a sizeable ex-pat community and English is widely understood.
Famous for …
» Fiestas with traditional horsemanship displays
» Menorcan Gin and Cheese
» Avarca Sandals with soles made from car tyres!
» Jewellery and Designer Shoes
» And more recently, Formula One race car testing