Just 200 kilometers east of Barcelona is Menorca- a small island with tons of character. Menorca (also spelled Minorca in English) is the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands behind Mallorca and Ibiza. If you are looking for a sunny escape with the turquoise water of the Mediterranean but want a more relaxing, less touristy vibe then Menorca may be your perfect destination.

Despite only measuring 10 miles wide and 35 miles long, Menorca has over 360 beaches ranging from secluded to family friendly (and yes, some nude beaches also 🍑).

Many of the beaches in Menorca are surrounded by interesting pebbles

Menorca is famous for stunning sea coves that are present throughout the island

The capital of Menorca is Mahon which is where you will fly in to, should you choose to fly. It is an easy 1 hour flight from Barcelona. If flying is not your style, there are also ferries from Barcelona that take around 3.5 hours to get to Menorca.

Menorcan landscape has rolling hills with flower fields that neighbor the beaches

Unless you are staying only in Mahon, renting a car is your best option as the island is small and easy to navigate for day-trips. Since Menorca is a Spanish island, traffic is on the right side of the road as it is on mainland Spain. There are multiple car rental companies located in Mahon.

If you are a foodie, Menorca has a treasure trove of fantastic cuisine to experience. One of the most famous foods from Menorca is Mahon cheese. Although this cheese named after the island’s capital, you can find producers (or queserias) all over the island. Take a tour of a queseria and learn how to make Mahon cheese or buy direct from the producers during the local markets in towns across the island. Other well known Menorcan foods include Sobrassada sausage and the light, fluffy pastry known as Ensamaida. Since Menorca is an island, there are vast seafood options available fresh from the Mediterranean Sea. And, of course, you must try fantastic Menorcan wine while you’re here. A beautiful place to experience excellent Menorcan cuisine and wine is at Bodegas Binifadet winery. They offer wine tours, tastings and also have a full service restaurant where you can enjoy your meal with a pretty view of the vineyards.

Menorcan cheese and dried sausage, Ciutadella de Menorca

Be sure to take a day trip to the beautiful city of Ciutadella de Menorca. Ciutadella de Menorca is located on the western coast of Menorca and is a charming city famous for its cobblestone streets and medieval building. Spend the afternoon wandering the stress while you do some shopping. Stop into the beautiful 14th century Santa Maria of Ciutadella Cathedral for awe-inspiring architecture.

It’s time for your Menorcan getaway!

Menorca: Spain’s quaint Balearic island

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