The Charms Of Menorca

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 46
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For a Mediterranean experience away from the brashness of Majorca or Ibiza, then the modest, quaint island of Menorca offers just the break you might need. With its cute marinas, its street markets, its pleasant small shops, and its harbours, Menorca is a gem among the Balearic Islands, a charming and quiet place to head to.

From one side of the island to the other you will be able to find perfect spots to while away lazy hours in the sun. The scenery all round is wonderful: the hills in particular are great for a slow-paced walk. Menorca has its fair share of historic sites too, especially in the cities of Mahon and Ciudadela. Menorca proves the claim that good things come in small packages.

With over a hundred beaches to choose from, you are sure to find somewhere to relax. Son Bou for instance is the island''s longest beach, situated on the southern coast. Tan-toppers, snorkelers and windsurfers meanwhile head off to Punta Prima. All around the island however you will find so many gentle coves perfect for enjoying the sunshine and taking time out.

The people of Menorca love their fish: seafood is what ...
... they do best. In some seafood joints you might even have the chance to see your food as it is landed. However if it gets too much, you''re sure to find somewhere that serves a good plate of fish and chips or a perfect Sunday roast.

Menorca is a quiet island that sets itself apart from its rowdier neighbours; nonetheless in resorts like Es Castell and Cala''n Bosch you can discover good venues that play music, whilst in Cala''n Forcat and Cala''n Porter the nightclubs are always worth a visit.

Mahon and Ciudadela are of course the two main cities. As well as the good nightlife on offer there, you''ll find them great places to enjoy some retail therapy. The designer outlets in the capital are set beside small, trendy boutiques and specialist stores. Whether you''re out to treat yourself or looking for something to take home to friends and family, you''ll find something here.

The food markets across the island are worth a visit too: Mahon hosts fruit and veg stalls inside the Claustre del Carme whilst the crowds head to the farmer''s market by the cathedral in Ciudadela every Saturday to try the produce at the sausage and cheese stalls. Some local delicacies are a must to try, particularly the Xoriguer gin and the pungent queso de Mahon cheese.

A quaint, charming island, Menorca is not like some of the other destinations in the Mediterranean. Nonetheless there is so much that you will be able to see and do if you take a flight out that getting a hire car for your arrival is a must. Then you can fit in as much as you can, and make your holiday in the sun truly worthwhile. Bonny Kominek is very fond of the Balearic islands and has been going to Menorca for years. Getting cheap car hire in Menorca is essential, you can get the right car from Ritmocars.co.uk.