An Insider’s Guide To Menorca
Where To Stay
MARTA PEREZ FOTO GRAFIA
Hotel Torralbenc
Torralbenc is a serene and peaceful hotel nestled on Torralbenc Vineyard. The hotel has real Menorcan charm with its white-washed farm buildings which date back to the 19th and early 20th century. When we can sneak a moment away from the kids, we head here for a glass of wine in the late afternoon before eating at their restaurant which offers traditional Menorcan cuisine.
Visit Torralbenc.com/en
Menorca Experimental
This hotel is the first opening on the island from the talented Parisian team behind the Experimental Group, who own a selection of stylish bars, restaurants and hotels. With Menorca Experimental, they’ve renovated a beautiful, traditional farmhouse into a stylish hotel. We haven’t had the chance to stay yet but the rooms look beautiful, so it’s definitely at the top of our list for our next trip. We have, however, eaten here several times – head to the hotel in the early evening to enjoy cocktails by the pool before dinner, which consists of delicious sharing plates.
Visit MenorcaExperimental.com
MARTA PEREZ FOTO GRAFIA
Artiem Carlos
If you’re after an adult-only hotel, head to Artiem Carlos in Es Castell, located on the east of the island. It has the most gorgeous sea views from the pool and there’s a great spa on site, too. For a romantic trip, book one of the rooms that overlook the bay.
Visit Artiemhotels.com
Sant Joan De Binissaida
Christie stayed here on her wedding night. Set within the beautiful countryside of Menorca, this boutique hotel is located in a 17th-century country house on the east of the island, near the entrance to the port of Mahon. Ideal if you’re after a bit of luxury R&R, try and book one of the rooms away from the main house for maximum privacy. Breakfast overlooking the pool in the mornings is a must.
Visit Binissaida.com
Alcaufar Vell
This is another beautiful traditional farmhouse hotel in the countryside. Book a table for lunch or dinner, or head to the bar for a Pomada (a Menorcan drink made with gin) after a day spent at the nearby Alcaufar Bay.
Visit AlcaufarVell.com/en
Can Faustino, Ciutadella
Set in a 16th-century merchant’s palace in Ciutadella, the city’s historic centre Can Faustino is beautiful. The rooms are simple yet stylish, especially the suites with terraces. You can relax in the steaming hammam in the ancient vaults, and try local food at the restaurant, a lively spot in the evenings. For a great day out, book a trip on one of the hotel’s private boats to explore the nearby coves.
Visit CanFaustino.com
Where To Eat
Binifadet
This is a stunning family-run restaurant and vineyard. If you want to stock up on great wines or go for a superb meal, it’s well worth a visit. Make sure you get an outdoor table near the vines for the best views. If you’re just stopping by, be sure to book a tasting and take a tour of the vineyard.
Visit Binifadet.com
Cap Roig
If you want fantastic fish with great views, this is the spot. Named after the Scorpionfish, this restaurant serves up an array of treats from the ocean. Try and get a table on the terrace for a view of Sa Mesquida, the beach below the restaurant. If you’ve had a glass or two of wine, amble down to the beach for a swim, or a snooze, and be sure to try one of the many ice-cream flavours at the famous van on the beach which has been there since the 80s.
Visit RestaurantCapRoig.com
Pan Y Vino
This is one of our parents’ favourite places in Menorca, housed in a small country finca. The menu is predominantly Menorcan with French influences from the chef, Patrick, who was born there. Expect dishes like aubergine and tomato crumble with sea bream; duck legs with orange and rosemary; and strawberry, coconut and passion fruit soup.
Visit PanYVinoMenorca.com
Passio Mediterrania, Mahón
Located in the capital, this restaurant is renowned for its tapas and extensive wine selection. The menu features dishes like iclude huevos bravos, beef carpaccio, and paella. Enjoy a glass (or two) of sangria or treat yourself to a bottle of the local sparkling wine.
Visit PassioMed.com
Mon Restaurant i Fonda, Ciutadella
Headed up by chef Felip Lluifriu, if you’re looking for stylish fine dining, this restaurant fits the bill. Housed in a boutique hotel, expect delicious, inventive dishes – the menu changed frequently so there’s always something tasty on offer.
Visit MonRestaurantFonda.com
Where To Drink
Cova d’en Xoroi
We had one of our first clubbing experiences here at one of their legendary foam parties. Nowadays, we prefer to spend sunset hour here with the incredible views and music. Set in a spectacular cliffside cave overlooking the sea, it’s truly unique and a must for a late afternoon sundowner.
Visit CovaDenxXroi.com
Isabella Beach Club
This is the place to go for sundowner drinks. Located in Fornells, it’s right on the rocks and has great sea views. There’s always a buzzy vibe, but it still feels really relaxed.
Visit IsabellaMenorca.com/en
Bar Latitud 40
If you like gin, this is the place to go. The famous bar is popular with boat cruises during their summer sails and has an extensive cocktail list.
Follow @Latitud40° on Instagram
Es Corb Mari
This is our favourite bar on Son Boy beach. The food and drinks are delicious, but it’s also a great spot for coffee after a morning dip.
Follow @EsXiringuito on Instagram
Where To Shop
CALA GALDANA PELAYO ARBUES/UNSPLASH
Sandal Factories
This might sound a little niche, but if you want a pair of traditional Menorcan sandals, head to one of island’s many factories. There are lots to choose from – our whole family, and every local, has been wearing them for years.
Ciutadella
Ciutadella on the west coast of the island has some really sweet shops. A lovely afternoon can be spent exploring the streets, popping into the boutiques and having a drink at one of the bars or cafés.
Mahon
If you really want to shop, head to the capital, Mahon. There’s a great market on Sundays, as well as lots of cute accessory stalls. Be sure to visit the Old Fish Market which does great tapas.
Es Castell
Lots of hidden gems can be discovered in Es Castell. Here, you’ll find lots of little independent boutiques and cafés.
What To Do
Hauser & Wirth
Hauser & Wirth has just opened in Illa del Rei, an island in Mahon Harbour. The area is where Christie was married back in 2015, and she even chose the middle name ‘Rei’ for her youngest son to commemorate just how special the island is for us.
Visit HauserWirth.com
Beaches
The key beaches to visit are Son Bou, Pregunda, Cala Galdana. Son Bou has crystal-clear waters, blue waters and a really relaxed vibe, while Cala Galdana, with its symmetrical horseshoe-shaped cove, is ideal for families. Menorca is also full of ‘virgin beaches’ which are beaches without immediate car access. We also love Macarella, which can be reached on foot from Cala Galdana.
Cami De Cavalls
This walking trail is a scenic route that surrounds the island. The ancient path is 185km long and follow the coast, with beautiful views en route. You can pick up different parts of the trail easily and there are plenty of good online recommendations, depending on the intensity of walk you’re after and what to want to see.
Plaça des Born
Ciutadella’s main square is lined with 19th-century buildings, including the town’s remaining bastions and bulwarks. Head up to the 14th-century Bastió d’Es Governador for a great view of the port.
Menorca Biosphere Reserve
Part of the magic of Menorca is that it was recognised as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1993, meaning its nature reserves have been able to flourish from restricted development and construction. This sense of nature and endless countryside sets it apart from its Balearic neighbours.
Visit Otiumberg.com and follow @Otiumberg on Instagram
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