Mahón

Mahon , the thriving capital of the island since 1722, surprises for its balanced beauty built of different cultures’ remnants, between tradition and modernism, it still holds its Mediterranean essence and colonial appearance. Natural gateway to the island, its port has been for ages the bastion to be conquered in order to dominate the island. Its old town centre defiantly overlooking the spectacular cliff, and beautiful bay, have always been coveted by different people. There must be a reason, right?

The locals say that the mahonesa was invented during their brawls with the French Nowadays it is known worldwide as mayonnaise. Furthermore, Mahón holds a delicious gastronomy that is worthwhile discovering: the famous Mahon cheese, with its own DO (denomination of origin), local cold meat, the sobrasada, lobster caldereta, the famous Menorcan gin Xoriguer... One of the most beautiful pictures of the island is the Port of Mahon, a view that blends in luxurious yachts with traditional “llaüts”. In the centre of the town you will find a well-preserved old centre, the picturesque markets Mercat des Peix and El Carme, the Sant Felip fort, Es Castell, the islet of Rei, Cala Llonga and the mansion known as The Golden Farm; a huge terracotta house where, according to the legend, Admiral Nelson had an affair with Lady Hamilton. A must.

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Talayotic Route

The first traces of human presence date back to 2100 BC. Until the arrival of the Romans in 123 AD, the island's ancient history goes through different phases.

PREHISTORIC PERIOD

One of the most symbolic and exclusive buildings of Menorca are the navetas, burial collective constructions. Naveta de es Tudons in Ciutadell, dates back to the 9th century BC.

TALAYOTIC PERIOD

Between 1000 and 700 BC the talaoits were built. Their main purpose was to keep watch over the surrounding area, as well as provinding a focal point for the communities living around them. During this time period, known as the Talayotic period, burial caves were dug out of the cliffs in calas and cliffs like the Calascoves (Alaior).

POST-TALAYOTIC PERIOD

The post-Talayotic period started in 650 BC. This was the time when Menorca’s most unique and distinctive constructionswere built: the taula sanctuaries. They were used for human and soil fertility rituals.

In the settlements circular houses were built. The largest known is the Círculo Cartailhac that dates from the 2nd century BC in the Torre d'en Galmés (Alaior) settlement.

OUR 20 RECOMMENDATIONS

Naveta des Tudons
Cales Coves Necropolis
Trepucó Talayotic Settlement
Municipal Museum of Ciutadella
Talati de Dalt Talayotic Settlement
Rafal Rubí Navetas
Montefí Talayotic Settelemnt
Menorca Museum
Son Mercer de Baix naviforme settlement
Torrelló Talayot
Torrellafud talayotic settelement
Binisssafullet talayotic settelement
Cornia Nou Talayot
Cala Morell Necropolis
Trbalúger Talayor
Biniac - L'Argentna Navetas
Sa Torreta de Tramuntana Talayotic Settelment
So na Caçana
Torralba d'en Salort Talayotic Settlement

Camí de Cavalls

In Menorca there used to exist a beautiful path that went around the entire island through the coastline, crossing secluded calas, cliffs, forest and fields. It is the Camí de Cavalls (Horse Path), named after the constant circulation of British soldiers that guarded the coast on their horses during the island's British domination.

Nowadays this path has been recovered and signs have been put up for public use. Completing the full path, staying at the calas (camping is forbidden), can be an interesting and adventurous alternative to a traditional holiday, more in contact with nature. However, you can also decide to go through parts of the path, an excellent way of getting to know the coastline.

Menorca Biosphere Reserve

The UNESCO declared Menorca Biosphere Reserve on the 8th October, 1993 because of the well combined development of the economy, the consumption of natural resources and the natural environment's conservation.

Menorca is a land with a very rich traditional, rural landscape. It has a significant diversity of Mediterranean habitats where, with plantlife and wildlife found exclusively on the island. Some of these are endangered species.

Made in Menorca

To get to know Menorca, you need to learn about its economic sector, everything that is manufactured on the island: shoes, cheese, baked good, wine, gin, jewelry, boats...Produced in a semi-artisan way and with an extremely high quality standard that allows the island's manufacturers to export their products Made in Menorca, around the world

MENORCA IS FASION, fantastic shows with a good design and quality. High, low, platform shoes, multi-shaped and coloured.

MENORCA IS TASTY, it tastes like cheese and cold cuts. Cheese with a Demonicación de Origen Protegida trademark, intensa and very special. Cold cuts with different textures and flavours.

MENORCA IS SWEET, like its baked goods and sweets with a reminiscence of cultures that have left their mark on the island throughout history.

MENORCA IS TRADITIONAL, the process of making gin has been the same for the last 200 years.

MENORCA IS THE SEA. The Mediterranean sea, a beautiful sea, great for those who love sailing.

MENORCA IS NATURAL. A place where man and nature coexist.

MENORCA IS CREATIVE. It is original as the start of the island's artisan jewelry in the 19th century, as creative as its inhabitants.

Cheese

The island's gastronomical variety includes a few products that stand out for their quality and external recognition. The cheese is one of those products. It has the trademark Denominación de Origen Mahón-Menorca, made from cow's milk. The square shape and the taste are quite peculiar.

A BIT OF HISTORY

Some finds suggest that cheese was already made in prehistoric times. In the 13th century significant quantities of cheese, wine and meat were exported. But in the 18th century the commerce flourished, with four boats used just to transport cheese from Maó's harbour to other cities in the Western Mediterranean area.

A CHEESE FOR EVERY TASTE

The milk and production of the cheese are today one of the main incomes of Menorca's agriculture. There are three different varieties: young cheese with a mild flavour and white colour, semicurado with an orange colour and a saltier taste and curado, with a toastier colour and yellow interior, an more intense flavour and slightly spicy.

There is also a mature (añejo), much saltier cheese. All in all, Menorca's cheese is very versatile and it has many uses. It can be served as an appetiser, as the base or side to a dessert, eaten with bread or simply with some fruit.

Mahon Harbour

A cruise ship enters Mahon's harbour, breaking the silence first thing in the morning. The engine is almost stopped and the ship strolls for 5 kilometres, exactly the length of this protected inlet. It is one of the biggest natural harbours in the world. The passengers, looking over the deck, gaze at a shore filled with history.

The cruise avoids the islets of Llatzaret and Illa del Rei, leaving behind the north part of the island, the white of the English Cemetry and at last reaching the city. It clings to the cliffs, the bell-tower of the Santa Maria church and the Carmen dome, and the water strung with sailing-boats, yachts and llauts.

AN ENDLESS SEA OF POSSIBILITIES

Mahon's Harbour offers all sorts of possibilities to its visitors. The endless dock has many restaurants, cafès and musical bars. Enjoy a pleasant meal in one of the terraces. If you are tempted to explore the northern part of the harbour, the best way to do so is to get lost in one of the many nooks.

You can also this natural harbour from the sea. There are many touristic tours byt boat and catamaran that you may find interesting.

Craftsmanship

Menorca has a great craftsmanship tradition and a variety of ancient crafts. The island's artisans have been able to preserve their crafts, passing down their abilities from generation to generation and inspiring with their art, their taste for all things traditional.

MENORCA, TRADITION AND ART

In Menorca there are sixteeen different artisan guilds, divided into categories: food and beverage (cheese, liquor), carpentry, waxwork, music (guitar making), stone, leather, art (sculptures, toys), textiles, ceramics, ironmongers, paper and cardboard, shoes and clothes, glass and ornaments and jewelry.

This sector's relevance is shown in the island's Craft Fair, but you can find workshops and shops around the island and also stalls in the flea markets.

The Consell Insular of Menorca has launched the trademark Artesanos de Menorca to distinguish the craftwork made on the island and identiy the professional artisans.

Towns

Menorca has a population of 96.000, concentrated in eight towns: Maó (the capital), Ciutadella (ancient capital), Alaior, Ferreries, Es Mercadal, Es Castell, Sant Lluís and Es Migjorn Gran.

There are three other villages: Sant Climent, Llucmaçanes and Fornells, the first two belong to Maó and the last to Es Mercadal. Maó is located in the east and Ciutadella in the west, and are the most populated towns.

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Further information

Organise your trip

You can start to prepare your trip to Menorca today. We will provide you with all the required information to make your trip to the island of serenity, a perfect one.

WHEN SHOULD I GO?

Menorca has a typically Mediterranean, mild climate all year round. Any month in the year is perfect to hike in Menorca. From May to Octobre, the temperature is perfect to enjoy the fine, golden-sanded beachs and the turquoise watered beaches.

Don't forget the festivities! In June, you can enjoy Sant Joan, in Ciutadella, one of the most important in the Menorcan calendar, that originated in Medieval Times.

If you are looking for a trip to Menorca at the best price possible, travel during low season. The prices usually go up during Christmas, Easter, bank holidays and the summer months.

DOCUMENTATION

Your ID and/or passport are essential to travel as well as your driving licence if you are thinking of hiring a car. Young travellers, students or senior citizens are entitled to discounts on public transportation, museum tickets and other interesting sites.

How do I get there?

BY PLANE

With over 2.5 million passengers registred in 2013, Menorca Airport (MAH) is the island's main connecting point with the outside, especially with international tourism. Located 5 km from Mahón, the island's capital, it is well connected with the main European airports.

During low season the options to fly are very diverse and the majority of flights come from Madrid, Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca. During the summer months there are more flights available. Most passengers come from Spain, United Kingdom and Italy.

There is a bus stop and a taxi stop at Mahón Airport.

Public Bus

Bus number 10 connects the airport with the Mahón bus station. From the station there are several buses that connect with the city and other towns. Bus stop at the airport: Terminal. Floor 0. Arrvials

Taxi Stop

There is a taxi stop in the passenger terminal (Floor 0. Arrivals.) Ask for an invoice in case of any further complaints.

Car Hire

The best way to get to know the island is to hire a car at the airport. Even though there is an excellent bus network that connects the main cities (Mahón and Ciutadellla) with the most important tourist centres, the best way to move around is by car. The prices are higher during high season.

HOLIDAY PACKAGES

Many travellers hire holiday packages that include flight, transport to and from the airport and acommodation.

Where can I stay?

In Menorca you will find a wide range of hotels to suit all tastes and budgets, offering spectacular resorts with an “all inclusive” basis or half board, most of them specialised in family holidays. Most of these resorts have swimming pools, entetainment for children, leisure activities for adults...

For those who prefer staying in cities like Ciutadella and Mahón, Menorca offers city hotels and boutique hotels located in symbolic buildings.

For a more intimate stay, there are exclusive villas that offer all of the facilities you need. If you want a taste of the real Menorca atmosphere there is nothing better than staying in a rural hotel. Ideal for a relaxing holiday and for lovers of hiking, nature and traditions. Many of them are buil near the Camí de Cavalls.

You also have a wide variety of first class hotels located along all of the island's beautiful coastline. Check if your acommodation includes breakfast at the hotel. The majority of the hotels include buffet breakfast with a wide variety of cold and warm dishes. They also usually offer local dishes cooked seasonally.

Medical Assitance

You may take out an insurance policy to cover medical assistance during the trip. We also offer a travel insurance policy, which covers medical assistance, theft and cancellation charges. Several private medical centres and private hospitals throughout many towns on the island offer medical assitance.

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

In order to get assistance at a public medical centre or hospital you must have a Medical Card. Menorca has medical services all over the island. The Public Health Service has hospitals located in the main towns and medical centres spread all over the island. In Mahón you will find IB Salut Mateu Orfila Hospital.

There are also private medical centres. The Red Cross has several emergency centres in many villages and beaches. As in the rest of the country, in case of emergency you must dial 112. The call is free of charge and you will receive attention immediately in four languages (Spanish, Catalan, English and German). They will coordinate all the required emergency services such as ambulances, Fire Department and Police.

Currency and Customs

The Euro is the official currency in the Balearic Islands. As in the rest of the country, you may use credit cards for most of your financial transactions, especially in the touristic areas, where they tend to facilitate consumption to their clients. There may be some shops or small bars that only accept cash.

There is a wide network of ATM’s in the main towns of the island, but please bear in mind that banks charge a commission if you withdraw cash with other banks’ credit cards.

CREDIT CARD CANCELLATION TELEPHONE NUMBERS

4B - VISA Electron - Master Card - VISA: 0034 902 114 400 / 0034 913 626 200
Servired (VISA - VISA Electron - Master Card): 0034 902 192 100
American Express: 0034 902 375 637
Red 6000: 0034 915 965 335

Cultural Agenda

Land of legends, traditions and mix of cultures, Menorca offers visitors attractive, unique festivities. Cavalls a es Born (horses in Es Born) or Sant Joan are most famous. Many locals and tourists participate in one of the main events of the Menorcan summer amongst pomada, the popular drink made from Menorcan Gin Xoriguer and lemonade.

But Menorca is much more. During your holiday you can enjoy craftsmanship fairs, gastronomy, concerts, theatre, cultural events... Check our cultural calendar for the most importants events of the year

January

Sant Antoni festivity

Gastronomy festivity

March/April

Easter

June

Sant Joan

July

Patriotic feast

Carmen festivity

Santiago festivity

August

Sant Crisòfol festivity

Sant Caietà festivity

Craftsmanship festivity

September

Mare de Déu de Gràcia festivity

December

Christmas

Useful Phone Numbers

We provide our travellers with a useful telephone essential guide. Any infomation required about Menorca and any of its services can be found in the following infomation points.

SECURITY

Emergencies: 112
National Police Force: 091
Local Police Force: 092
Guardia Civil: 062

AIRPORT

Menorca Airport (MAH): 0034 971 157 115

BOAT COMPANIES

Acciona Transmediterranea: 0034 902 454 645
Flebasa: 0034 971 480 012 (Ciutadella-Alcudia)
Cape Balear: 0034 971 818 668 (Ciutadella-Cala Ratjada)

PORTS AND MARINAS

Cala'n Bosch Marina: 0034 971 726 848
Ciutadella Marina: 0034 971 383 918
Mahón Marina: 0034 971 365 022
Ribera del Puerto (Mahón): 0034 971 354 844
Addaia Marina: 0034 971 188 871
Fornells Marina: 0034 971 261 849

TAXI

Mahón: 0034 971 361 283 // 0034 971 367 111
Ciutadella: 0034 971 382 896// 0034 971 482 222

CONSULATES

German Consulate: 0034 971 361 668
British Consulate: 0034 971 363 373
Dutch Consulate: 0034 971 354 363

TOURIST OFFICES

Ciutadella: 0034 971 484 155
Airport: 0034 971 157 115
Mahón Port: 0034 971 355 952
Mahón city centre: 0034 971 363 790

The weather in Menorca

Check the weather forecast for your holiday

Monthly forecast

Jan14.0º7.5º
Feb14.2º7.5º
Mar15.5º8.4º
Apr17.3º10.0º
May21.1º13.4º
Jun25.0º17.2º
Jul28.4º20.3º
Aug28.9º21.1º
Sep26.1º18.7º
Oct22.0º15.4º
Nov17.7º11.1º
Dec15.2º8.9º