If you thought Menorca was just about pretty coves and sobrasada, then you’re in for a nice surprise. This little Balearic island harbours much more than its beaches with turquoise waters and colourful umbrellas.
In the heart of this land of reddish soil, between holm oaks and wild olive trees, you’ll find sleepy towns that taste of the sea and the countryside, full of tales, whitewashed walls and green windows. Today we’re going on a tour of Menorca’s most picturesque towns.
Es Mercadal: the heart of the island
Es Mercadal not only lies in the geographical centre of Menorca, but it can also be considered its rural soul. Just picture it: low houses, olive-green shutters and the smell of toasted bread wafting from the open door of a kitchen. This is the perfect town for seeing the most authentic side of Menorca.
Things to do in Es Mercadal: climb Monte Toro, the tallest point on the island (358m, so you don’t need to be an expert climber), from where you’ll get a 360º view of Menorca. And don’t miss the sanctuary at the top, finishing off with a delicious “ensaïmada” in the local restaurant at the viewpoint.
How to get to Es Mercadal: it’s halfway between Mahón and Ciutadella, well connected by the Me-1 main road. There are buses from both cities.
Fornells: delicious flavours of the sea
An old fishing village with a slower pace of life, Fornells is famous for its lobster stew, but seafood is not the only attraction.
Things to do in Fornells: stroll around the harbour at sunset, with the boats bobbing in time with the Tramontana wind. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, why not hire a kayak or go paddle boarding to explore the bay. Or if you prefer something less energetic, you can visit the Fornells Tower, a British fortification with breathtaking views.
How to get to Fornells: it’s no more than 10km from Es Mercadal. You can go by car, bike or bus.
Sant Lluís: a little taste of France
With its different sounding name, Sant Lluís was founded by the French in the 18th century, and you can tell by its urban layout. Straight streets, low houses with an almost Provençal air… and a leisurely pace, ideal for visitors who like to take their time.
Things to do in Sant Lluís: Go and see the Molí de Dalt, a windmill that’s been converted into a small ethnological museum. Followed by coffee on a shaded terrace and a chat with the locals, who always have a story or two to tell.
How to get to Sant Lluís: just 4km from Mahón by car or bus. You can also cycle there if you have the energy.
Alaior: art, cheese and alleyways
Alaior is like a snapshot of a Sunday afternoon: quiet, quaint and with memorable moments. The old town spreads out over a hill, with narrow streets, little steps and photogenic façades.
Things to do in Alaior: visit the church of Santa Eulàlia and wander around the local art galleries and charming little shops. And if you like cheese, you’ll find some of the island’s finest cheesemakers here. Ask for a taste and take some cured cheese home as a souvenir (wrapped up, so it doesn’t make your suitcase smell!).
How to get to Alaior: 12km from Mahón along the Me-1. There are frequent buses.
Ferreries: mountains and craftsmanship
Ferreries nestles among the green hills and has an artisan soul. Home to the famous Menorcan sandals, leatherwork is combined here with the stunning natural surroundings.
Things to do in Ferreries: visit the artisan shoe workshops and shops (it’s not all about cheap souvenirs). Walking routes lead from here to the Algendar Gorge, a walk through a leafy canyon, where you may spot the odd goat or falcon.
How to get to Ferreries: located between Es Mercadal and Ciutadella, along the Me-1. It’s well connected by bus.
Es Migjorn Gran: the least well-known town (and perhaps the most enchanting)
Es Migjorn Gran isn’t usually shown on the tourist maps… and maybe that’s why it’s so charming. It’s small, secluded and quiet. It has that air of a town where nothing ever happens, but in a good way.
Things to do in Es Migjorn Gran: take a stroll to the Sant Cristòfol hermitage and then find the local bar where they serve the best “pa amb oli” in the area (it’s debateable which bar this is, so you’ll need to try a few). The town is also very close to beaches such as Binigaus, which you can walk to.
How to get to Es Migjorn Gran: Between Ferreries and the south coast, accessible by local roads.
An island that takes care of itself (if you take care of it too)
Menorca has been a Biosphere Reserve since 1993, and that’s not just a nice title. It means that it is fragile, valuable and deserves to be treated with care. If you visit these towns, please remember: don’t make noise where silence reigns, buy locally, and take away only memories (and maybe a matured cheese).
Avoid places that are already too busy, such as Binibeca, to allow the island to breathe, and explore the less frequented corners. Because travel is also about making good choices in terms of where we go and how we do it.
For more ideas and info, take a look at our articles on Menorca.
Have a great trip, and may it be a beautiful one!
