Mahon is the capital city of Menorca, the most easterly of the Balearic Islands which lie in the Mediterranean off Spainâs east coast. A beautiful island in its own right, Menorca lies somewhat in the shadow of its more famous neighbours, Majorca and Ibiza. This has helped it retain a more relaxed atmosphere as it is no clubbing mecca. The fantastic climate is one of the main reasons tourists flock here every year.
Mahonâs climate is typically Mediterranean, characterised by long hot summers and short mild winters. There are over 300 days of sunshine a year. Summer is the most popular time to visit. If you fancy a quieter break then spring and autumn still enjoy great weather. Winters are mild and see a good deal of sunshine and so could be an attractive alternative to cold winters elsewhere in Europe.
An important factor in Mahonâs climate is the influence of the sea winds â" there are eight local prevailing winds which have led to Menorca being dubbed the âwindy island.â These winds provide welcome refreshment in the summer but bring unsettled conditions in the winter.
The sea around Menorca is warm year round and helps the island to avoid real extremes of temperature. Surface temperature varies between around 15°C and 25°C.
Summer weather develops in May; the town is blessed with clear blue skies and warm temperatures. Daily highs average in the low 20s in early summer, and by the peak summer months of July and August it is frequently in the high 20s and above. August is the hottest month of the year with an average high temperature of 28°C. Good summer weather lasts long into September and sometimes early October.
Rainfall is very low in summer. The driest month is July with an average rainfall of just 4mm. Rain in June and August is rare too. By late summer rain becomes more frequent.
Since Mahon is on the coast, even the hottest days are relieved by cooling sea breezes; temperatures inland are hotter with no escape.
Autumn in Mahon is a very agreeable time. The town has quietened down after the busy summer months, but the weather remains great. Daily highs in September and into October remain in the low to mid 20s. Even November averages a healthy 14°C â" thatâs on a par with June in London - and can enjoy highs approaching 20°C.
Autumn is, however, the wettest time of the year in Mahon. Rainfall is at its greatest when the summer heat begins to wane in late September. October is the wettest statistically, with an average of 84mm. Since most of this rain falls in short heavy bursts there is still a good deal of sunshine.
Winter in Mahon is mild and a little wet. It doesnât really get cold â" the coolest months are January and February which average 10°C. Temperatures are akin to spring in the UK, and rarely drop below 5°C. A sunny winterâs day can see temperature climb into the mid teens.
Rainfall is moderate, falling on around 8 days each month. December and January are among the wettest of the season with around 70mm. After this it begins to get drier again. The level of sunshine remains healthy at around four times the UKâs average.
Spring is arguably the best time to visit the island; itâs much quieter
than summer but enjoys great weather. Itâs quite dry; by late spring rainfall
becomes very rare. While nights can still be cool in early spring â" under 10°C
- daytime highs are often in the 20s later in the season and
there are a lot of sunny days. However, it can be a little unpredictable and
the sea breeze often has a cold edge.