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An island that sits in the shadow of its bigger sibling Mallorca, giving it the advantage of a different kind of tourism. One that is calmer, quieter and almost more meditative. For us Menorca was a time away from the world that seems to get crazier every year, a time to rest not only physically, but with the soul.
Day 1: Melía Cala Galdana
We arrived at the Melía Cala Galdana, an imposing structure that opens to some of the best views in Menorca. Cala Galdana, located in the south west of the island, is a deep blue treasure surrounded by beautiful cliffs and lush greenery. It is a busy part of the island but an absolute must.
After soaking in some of the sun, we headed into the center of the island to discover the gastronomic heart of the island. The Ca Na Pilar, confidently led by Víctor Lidón (a chef with a reference list longer than the waiting list at the restaurant), is tucked away at the of the Es Migjorn Gran village, in a traditional Menorcan house. This really is an experience, the local ingredients, the soft and calm atmosphere and of course the taste is a fusion that words won’t do justice. See for yourself.
Day 2: Cala Mitjana and Cova d’en Xerox
The beauty of Menorca is found in places where the water touches the land, we therefore started our morning early to chase the morning sun by spending time at the Cala Mitjana. An incredible beach that is all yours (if you arrive before 9 am) even during high season.
During the summer months, you want something lighter for lunch, maybe with a bit of wine. We visited the Italian restaurant Francesca, (who eats Italian in Spain, I know, but hear me out), the interior feels open, giving a breath of fresh air during a stuffy afternoon. The dishes, a freshness and a focus on a mix of different tastes. The service, cherry on the top. Not a place to be missed if you are on the island.
Right, so you would like a nice cocktail, oh and a completely open view of the sea. Inside of tall hanging cliffs. And you want music and a perfect view of the sunset. It’s a difficult request, but might I suggest Cova d’en Xoroi? Don’t forget to book in advance, you will need a ticket to enter.
After the rush from all these experiences, we knew we had to slow down. Really slow down. We made our way to the Agroturisme Ses Talaies, a marvel hidden behind olive trees with a style and lightness, hard to find in the modern world. Based in an old stable, the setting is uniquely Menorcan. It is a place that lives in parallel to the world around it, somewhere you go to disconnect from the internet and from your own thoughts.
For dinner we visited Katú, a celebration of Mexican and Mediterranean, wrapped in a casual vibe with an incredible attention to detail. To see the day off we chased another sunset, at the Pont d’en Gil. No words are needed, your eyes will be glued to the views. The location is incredibly popular at this time of day so parking can be a bit of a challenge, and comfortable shoes are necessary.
Day 4: Cala en Brut and Smoix
The morning began with a dip at the Cala en Brut, a Cala with no sand and many platforms where you can sunbathe and use to dive into the water. The turquoise water creates a striking contrast with the white stones and greenery making it not only a great place to relax but also a perfect backdrop to any photo.
In continuing with the slow and rural theme, we visited the Smoix restaurant at Hotel Rural Sant Ignasi. An attractive laid-back space which uses the natural shade of trees to hide from the scorching sun. As is customary in Menorca, the ingredients were fresh, the tableware was handmade and the textures and tastes were extraordinary.
Not content with the amount we experienced during the day, we decided it was necessary to see another sunset. Two rules, it had to be in one of the most beautiful parts of the island and it had to be at a table serving great food and wine. Ivette Beach Club is where we finished the evening. Located in the Cala Morell, it serves delightful seafood and wonderful cocktails.
Day 5: Illa Del Rei and El Oliver de Amagatay
We did not think Menorca could amaze us even more but as we were celebrating a birthday, we decided we had to find something truly rare. We made our way to Mahon where we caught a catamaran to a very historic little island. The Illa Del Rei is a tiny island, nestled in the channel leading to Mahon. The name comes from the legend that Kind Alfonso III came ashore the island during the Conquest of Menorca. In 1711, the British created a hospital complex. Since 2004 the complex has been restored and Hauser & Wirth (a Swiss modern art gallery), has leased a section of the island to showcase modern art exhibitions. The gardens were also designed by the famous Piet Oudolf. The island is also home to a Menorcan eatery called the Cantina. A relaxed atmosphere and views onto the channel make this a fantastic way to relax after walking around the island. Make sure to book in advance!
We top of the day by having dinner at the El Olivar de Amagatay, a slow dinning masterpiece situated along rows of olive trees and shrubbery. The aesthetics of the restaurant are out of this world, but it doesn’t take the restaurant’s focus away from what really matters, the food. Made with the utmost respect to the local communities and environment at large, the dishes are a real treat.
Unfortunately the trip was coming to an end, we were completely exhausted from all the rich offerings the island had presented. We had to see the sea one last time in all its beauty and we made a quick run to the Sa Caleta. After swimming and taking some last bits of the sunshine, we were content. We had had one of the best holidays ever.
