6 Incredible Places to Visit in Menorca This Weekend

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Menorca, you are on the right page! Menorca is often overlooked by travelers visiting the Balearics in favor of the bigger Mallorca and the more popular Ibiza.

As such, it’s one of the quietest islands in Spain and an ideal option for those who prefer a tranquil and more laid-back vibe. Your visit to Menorca will reward you with secluded coves, unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and numerous fun things to do. 

Menorca is known for its breathtaking scenery, nature preserves, and beaches. Explore the island’s wild coastline and towering cliffs along the Cam de Cavalls, a famed walking route that offers breathtaking views and opportunities for unforgettable hikes.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, are interested in history, or want a peaceful getaway, Menorca is the perfect destination. It is a location that genuinely captures the hearts of its visitor’s thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

If you’re looking for ideas on where to go, here are the most incredible places to visit in Menorca.

#1. Cala Galdana

Like the other Balearic Islands, Menorca has its share of beautiful beaches. What’s great about these beaches is they are usually quiet, and you can even have them to yourself on some days!

One of the most beautiful beaches to see in Menorca is Cala Galdana, a tranquil bay in a horseshoe shape with super smooth sands. 

The vibe at Cala Galdana is very peaceful, having just the right among of things going on along. While there are a few great places to eat, drink, and shop, they are relatively quiet.

Cala Galdana is also an ideal base for your holiday in Menorca. The area offers many superb accommodations, including luxurious villas on the hillside looking down into the scenic bay.

Many of these accommodations are close to the island’s best beaches, so you can walk right to the beach as soon as you wake up. 

Aside from swimming and relaxing in one of the sun loungers along Cala Galdana, you can also try some water sports. You will find many water sports rental facilities along the shores, from jet skis to paragliding.

#2. Monte Toro

Menorca is famous for its spectacular views of nature, and the best way to admire these views is to climb Monte Toro, the island’s tallest peak. When you reach the top, you can enjoy spectacular island views.

Aside from admiring the views, Monte Toro is also home to a few attractions, such as La Virgen del Toro, a delightful old church and undoubtedly the most isolated church on the island.

If you have worked up an appetite after climbing Monte Toro, visit a restaurant called Sa Posada del Toro, considered the highest restaurant in Menorca.

Its menu features a delectable variety of local and international dishes. But the best part of dining at this restaurant is you’ll be treated to beautiful views while you eat.

If you’re not keen on trekking to the top of Monte Toro, you can rent a car and drive to the top. Follow the road in ME-1, which passes from Mahón to Ciutadella. You will then reach Es Mercadal, where you can find directions to get into Monte Toro.

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#3. Ciutadella Old Town

You will find many incredible accommodations in Menorca, offering an ideal base for those who want to explore the island for a few days.

You’ll find some of these accommodations in the Ciutadella Old Town, Menorca’s ancient capital, nicknamed “Vella I Bella,” which means the old and beautiful. Indeed, Ciutadella lives up to its name. It’s a gorgeous old town steeped in history and culture. 

Ciutadella’s port was the reason it was Menorca’s capital for many centuries. Nowadays, it’s a bustling marina with many lavish motor yachts moored and comes alive in the evening.

It has a charming promenade with many excellent seafood restaurants, bars, and shops. Follow the sloping roads leading down to the harbor, where you’ll find craft markets, a fun place to window-shop.

#4. Santa Maria Cathedral

Considered an Asset of Cultural Interest, Santa Maria Cathedral is one of Menorca’s architectural gems. Dating back to 1287 and built under the order of King Alfonso III after retaking Menorca from the Muslims.

It’s on the same site as an ancient mosque. After retaking the island, he ordered the mosque to be demolished and built the church with a new floor. 

Cathedral de Santa Maria has suffered looting and reconstructions several times, particularly during the time of the Turks in the1600. Also, the cathedral’s ornaments, jewels, and pictures were damaged during the Spanish Civil War.

Aside from admiring the cathedral’s neoclassical facade, get inside to marvel at the church interiors and learn more about its fascinating history.

Aside from the Cathedral de Santa Maria, you should also check out other beautiful churches in Menorca, such as the 18th Century Sant Nicolau Castle.

#5. Cala Turqueta Beach

Surrounded by dense forests on one of the most picturesque coasts of the Balearic Islands, Cala Turqueta is one of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches, delighting beachgoers with its transparent blue waters. It’s about ten kilometers from Ciutadella between Macarella and Es Talaier.

Rugged cliffs surround the beach on each side, clad with lush pine trees, part of Ciutadella’s Natural Area of Special Interest.

Turqueta is one of those beaches you should take advantage of while in Menorca. It consists of two beaches, with the main beach located along the mouth of a small river. 

As one of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches, it can get crowded during the peak summer season, so try to come here early. You can park about a 15-minute walk from the beach. Since it’s a famous beach, the car park can get filled up fast, so come here early.

#6. S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve

S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve is one of the most incredible places to see in Menorca if you want to explore nature away from the hustle and bustle. It has scenic trails taking you to charming villages and a famous lighthouse.

Situated in the northeastern section of Menorca, the S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve was established in 1995, occupying over 5,000 hectares of wetlands and an expansive coastline.

The park’s diverse landscapes have become a shelter for hundreds of different species of birds, plants, and animals. 

S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve offers a quieter alternative to the busy beaches and tourist towns. It’s the perfect spot for relaxing scenic walks, experiencing authentic village life, bird watching, and fun wildlife encounters.

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