We’re slightly biased and want people to find out about this amazing place. However if you needed some convincing then here are our 5 reasons why Menorca is the best of the Balearic islands.
The Beaches Are Insanely Beautiful
Why of the top reasons why Menorca is the best Balearic island is the beaches. There are loads of the them from wide open expanses, to small cove and inlets. They’re typically well kept, with locals and tourists having huge respect for the beaches and cleaning up after themselves.
Of course, there are plenty of beaches on the other islands. But in Menorca, given the right beach, you feel like you could be anywhere in the world from the Caribbean to the beautiful islands in Thailand. The crystal clear waters and golden sand are tempting to lay a towel down, pitch up an umbrella and bask in the sunshine and cool breeze all day.
Locals also love the beaches. Will get down early before the midday heat and relax before it gets too hot. Particularly during their summer holidays too. Which may mean some beaches are busier than others. So check out our beach guide for some great recommendations.
The Small Intimate Island Feel
Menorca is significantly smaller than it’s neighbour Mallorca. Only slightly larger than Ibiza. But quite a bit larger than the smallest of the Balearic islands, Formentera.
Having said that, Menorca’s population is only just under 100,00. Whereas Ibiza’s is over 150,000 and Mallorca’s just over 900,000. So given the size of the island, the population is relatively low. Formentera has just over 11,000 population if you were interested.
However, with it’s smaller population and being much less built up than Mallorca or Ibiza. Not having the large clubs of Ibiza and has a lot less resorts than Mallorca make Menorca feel more like family, than a noisy Cousin or loud Aunty.
A lot of these factors make for a more intimate and village type approach. Friendly and welcoming locals. Limited infrastructure and less car traffic. Typically less busy even during the height of summer.
It’s Ideal For A Peaceful Getaway
Unlike many other Spanish islands or even Spanish mainland resorts, there are always some quiet spots to be found in Menorca. Even during the peak summer months.
Menorca isn’t a place to come and party until your hearts content. Or streets filled with British families, stag-do’s or even restaurant staff trying to lure you into their restaurant with cheap deals. There’s the odd Irish or British pub of course, there are plenty of UK flights arriving throughout the summer months and there’s even a McDonalds and Burger King on the island.
Don’t get us wrong, Menorca is very popular amongst British holiday makers and families. But without these trappings, high-rise hotels and huge expansive resorts that can provide extra cheap accommodation, fortunately Menorca remains charming and not overwhelming busy during the peak season. Albeit, of course the island is busier than if you were to visit in June or September.
The island caters to this clientele too, with plenty of walking and hiking routes, some fantastic Michelin restaurants, the odd water park, a Zoo and plenty of places you can hire a boat, or bike.
The Inland Towns Are Beautiful
Not forgetting a notable mention for the capital city Mahon, or the second city of Ciutadella. However we want to focus on the beautiful inland towns here and we recommend three towns you will want to explore, Alaior, Ferreries and Es Mercadal. Although a notable mention for the tiny town of Es Migjorn.
Each town is beautifully intimate with small narrow streets and quaint boutique shops, the tapas café style restaurants you come to expect in Spain, plenty of butchers, bakers, hand crafted good stores and even supermarkets – handy if you’re self-catering and want to save some money doing a larger food shop.
Expect to see locals strolling around, having a beer in their friends bar, sitting on their doorstep chatting to their neighbours and friends. Most things the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle provides.
Focussing on the peaceful nature, you won’t find any super clubs here, just casual bars, bustling cafés and beautiful restaurants. Another reason why we believe Menorca is the best Balearic island.
It’s Easy To Explore And Get Around The Island
With Menorca’s smaller size and reduced infrastructure getting around the island is relatively simple and straightforward. It’s difficult to get too lost, let’s put it that way.
Conveniently there is one main road that runs through the spine of the country, the Me-1. The runs all the way from Mahon to Ciutadella. Conveniently, the ME-1 takes you through, or past the three towns we recommend visiting. Alaior, Es Mercadal and Ferreries. Very simple. And if you’re hiring a car in Menorca, then you should be fine.
You can check our car hire prices in Menorca through our partner Holiday Extras here.
When travelling on the Me-1 you have roads that fork off allowing you to reach the many coastal resorts. Such as to Son Bou, the Me-18 to Es Migjorn and then onto Santo Tomas, the Me-22 to Cala Galdana, the Me-15 up to Fornells and so on.
Travelling from coastal resort to neighbouring coastal resort typically requires you to travel back inland, head across then back down. Making journeys that bit longer, but you don’t mind when the countryside stays untouched. Sometimes, it may even be quicker to walk from resort to resort.
If buses are your thing then head to our Menorca buses guide. However in short, buses stick to the same routes as you would as a car typically. They head inland from the resorts, into the towns and then onto Mahon or Ciutadella.
The embedded map of Menorca below highlights just how few roads there are. So if you follow the road signs, you should be fine.
