The beauty of MENORCA gives no hint of its turbulent past when it was conquered by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines and Algerians. During the 18th Century the island belonged to Britain on three occasions, until finally in 1802 it returned to Spain. In 1993 UNESCO declared Menorca as a Biosphere Reserve because of its extensive, natural, ecological and environmental diversity.

Apart from tourism, the island depends on its traditional crafts of jewellery, pottery, textiles and handcrafted leather. Typical cuisine is based on local produce. Fish, Seafood, beef, traditional sausages, wonderful cheeses, delicious cakes and desserts, as well as the famous Menorcan gin will satisfy any appetite.

The Medieval capital of MAHON is situated on a vast natural harbour. The attractive architecture here is a mixture between local and colonial and there are many excellent shops, bars and restaurants.

CIUTADELLA with its squares and narrow cobbled streets, Gothic churches, impressive buildings, and attractive port, is a must to visit.

On the north coast lies the delightful old fishing village of FORNELLS and the port of CALES FONTS at ES CASTELL, just south of Mahon, has a typically Mediterranean ambience. One of the loveliest places to visit is the protected woodland area of LAVALL on the northwest coast. Extensive forests lead down to Cala Algaiarens and two very special sandy beaches. The National Park of S’ALBUFERA DES GRAU on the east coast is considered the central area of the biosphere Reserve. The fresh-water lake here is home to many migratory birds including herons, osprey and cormorants and there are wonderful walks along marked paths all round the park.

Driving in Menorca is very relaxed and you may like to hire a car for a few days to visit the wonderful bays and beaches found all over this lovely island.

A variety of excursions and boat trips are normally available, or alternatively there are local bus services and taxis.