Language
Currency
Forever in the shadow of perennial holiday favourites Ibiza and Mallorca, the quiet charms, laid-back ambience and gentle beauty of Menorca make it a great place for families in search of an intimate holiday spent exploring one of the most underrated spots in the Mediterranean.
An island of wild olive groves, pristine waters, prehistoric caves and friendly pueblos blancos Menorca is Villanovo's destination of choice for families in search of true tranquillity.
We take a look at some of the best activities and experiences on offer for an unforgettable family holiday in Menorca.
While the other Balearic islands steal the limelight, those in the know are happy to slip unnoticed to the low-key delights of Menorca's splendidly picturesque beaches, many of which can stake a claim to being the best in Spain. These quiet spots, fringed by Mediterranean woodland and kissed by shallow, turquoise waters, offer an unparalleled setting for a holiday spent with your loved ones in almost Eden-like natural surroundings.
While the more popular Cala Galdana certainly has its charms, we at Villanovo suggest the secluded Cala Mitjaneta, the unspoiled Platja de Cavalleria and Son Bou and the achingly beautiful Calas d'Algaiarens and Es Grau; stunning spots guaranteed to inspire memories to last a lifetime.
This ancient trail is a great way to explore Menorca's rugged coastline and unspoiled countryside. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the Camí de Cavalls offers stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities. Perhaps not ideal for the littlest legs, but for the more active among you, this historic trail is a must-see and a perfect way to explore the island's understated natural beauty.
To inspire lasting memories and the best family photos, consider taking the kids on a guided horse tour, where they can experience the rugged trails as intended.
>>> See our exclusive selection of luxury villas in Spain
While the islands idyllic beaches and secluded coves might be perfectly suited to mum and dad's taste, to really please the little ones and create memories they'll be bursting to share with their friends at school, a trip to one of Menorca's waterparks provides the perfect setting.
Splash Sur Menorca and AquaRocks are the two big ones to keep in mind; the former, found in Biniancolla at the southernmost tip of the island, provides hours of fun, with its lazy river, pirate ship and series of slides, while the latter, a stone's throw from the popular Cala n Bosch, combines its series of slides and pools (and sun loungers for those with other priorities) with another kids favourite - a karting track. A great way to keep everyone entertained!
This unmistakeable, quirky fishing village, not far from Biniancolla couldn't be more charming if it tried. This warren-like network of narrow streets, and pretty houses sporting wooden balconies looks like it has come from another era altogether.
Just 8km south of Mahon, the quiet ambience of this cosy hamlet is complemented by the serene, picturesque bays that surround it. A true oasis of peace and tranquillity and a great place to visit with babies and toddlers in need of an afternoon nap.
A holiday is an opportunity to inspire and enchant young minds, and Menorca's rich history, wonderfully preserved in the colourful architecture of its main eastern town of Ciutadella, is one such example. It's ancient medina harking back from the times of Moorish occupation is a great starting point to spark interest in the shifting fortunes of ancient civilizations. However, there are other places ideal for keeping inquiring minds well occupied.
The ancient quarry of Lithica, Perdreres de s'hostal just outside of the former capital, is one such example. The site is responsible for providing much of the raw material that makes up the western towns of Menorca. The Lithica association has restored it by adding a botanical garden and two labyrinths, to the delight of children. Numerous art, photo and theatre exhibitions are regularly held at Pedreres de S'Hostal. In recent years, the site has even become the home of the Mediterranean Film Festival. Meanwhile, just a little further from there, the remains of the Naveta d'Es Tudons represents one of the oldest burial sites in all of Europe.
On the other side of the island, the capital, Mahon, provides plenty more opportunities to learn about the island's history, with the Fortalesa de la Mola (build between 1850 and 1875) and the gorgeous spectacle of the old port, one of the deepest natural harbours in the world. Just 2km outside the city you can find the Taulas de Trepuco. This site of approximately 5,000 square metres is one of the largest and most important Talayotic villages in Menorca. Traces of it remain to this day in the form of living quarters, ramparts, etc. Explanatory signs throughout the site reveal exactly what each building was used for, painting a perfect picture of another time long gone.
6
3
2
8
4
4
