Menorca is one of the Balearic islands located off the West coast of Spain in the Mediterranean sea.
Weather
Menorca experiences a Mediterranean climate and so enjoys mild winters and warm summers. There is little to no rain during the summer months, and the temperature can peak to around 28 °C during the month of August.
Events
February and March see many carnivals taking place all over the island, where locals dress up and have parades on the last weekend before Lent.
Sailing enthusiasts have a number of boating events to look forward to throughout the year. The Princess Sofia Trophy in April and the Copa del Rey in early August both take place in Palma and are very famous and well attended yachting regattas.
Festa de Nostra Sanyora de la Victoria is held on the second Sunday in May, and sees the staging of mock battles to commemorate a raid by Turkish pirates in 1561.
Dia de Virgen de Carmen is celebrated all over the Balearic islands on July 15th and 16th. This is where fishermen bless their boats and hold parades.
There are also a number of important religious festivals celebrated throughout the year., including the Festa de Virgin on October 21st, Processio de la Beata on the first Sunday in September and Assumption of the Virgin on August 15th.
Things to see and do
For the best way to see the beautiful coastline around Menorca then you can take a boat tour. These operate out of Menorca harbour and most have guided tours available to point out all the sites.
The Castell de Sant Nicolau stands at the entrance to the harbour in Ciutadella and dates from the 17th century. The castle features a working drawbridge and is a great place to visit for beautiful views of the sea.
Gin lovers shouldnât miss a trip to the Xoriguer Gin Distillery on the Moll de Ponent seafront to see how this fragrant beverage is made. There are many samples of Balearic gin available as well as a well stocked gift shop.
Menorca is also home to a number of beautiful churches.
There has been a church on the site of Santa Clara sine 1287. Over the centuries it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, but in modern times this pretty little church still houses a group of nuns.
Ciutadella Cathedral dates from the 13 century and though it was damaged in a fire in the 16th century, today it features beautiful architecture including many stone carvings.
And of course, Menorca is famous for its miles on beautiful sandy beaches, so no trip is complete without spending time lazing on one of these amazing beaches.
Son Bou is the longest beach in Menorca, at around 2 miles (3km) long. This is a very popular beach which is ideal for families as the water is fairly calm.
Els Canutells is another beach which is great for taking a dip in the sea as it is situated at the end of a long bay and so is quite sheltered.
Cala Binibeca is fairly quiet as the surrounding area is not very built up. This is perfect for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busier beaches, but there is a restaurant situated nearby.
Other beaches include Cala Binisafuller, which is conveniently situated very close to a number of hotels, and Punta Prima on the very south of the island which boasts excellent views of the sea and cliffs.
Resorts
Menorca has a wide range of accommodation available all across the island.
The Jardin De Menorca Aparthotel, located in Son Bou is situated in peaceful extensive grounds and is ideal for families. There are plenty of pools, gardens and areas to eat and drink, both during the day and in the evening. There is plenty of entertainment available, including a kidsâ club, for children, as well as a fitness centre, Jacuzzi, sauna and spa for adults.
Club Hotel Sur Menorca is situated very close to Punta Prima beach and runs regular shuttle services from the resort. There are many onsite activities to keep people of all ages occupied, with many kidsâ activities and sports facilities available for use. There is also several bars and a kidsâ disco and teen club for the evenings.
Also located on Punta Prima beach is the Barcelo Pueblo Menorca Hotel. This resort caters to younger people as well as families and older holidaymakers. If staying in the resort, the Tramuntana Buffet serves three meals per day. There is a range of sports activities available, as well as a spa and fitness centre. For relaxing, there are bars by the pool, in the sports area, and the Garbi bar for evening drinks.
Mar De Menorca in Cala Canutells boasts a large sun terrace so is ideal for sun worshippers. It also boasts fantastic entertainment for children and adults alike.
If you want more private accommodation then Villas Menorca Sur will be perfect for you. This is a collection of 27 villas with a private pool and stunning views over the ocean. You can come and go as you please, eat whenever you like, and simply enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.
Menorca is a perfect holiday for all kinds of travellers. Families will enjoy the extensive facilities and peaceful beaches, whereas as younger holiday makers can take in the many historic sites and revel in the nightlife.
With beautiful beaches and warm weather all summer, youâd be guaranteed a fine all round holiday.