Islands · The Balearic Islands
Menorca: the back story
The back story
About Menorca: the back story
Menorca, north-east of Mallorca, was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on 8 October 1993 (unesco.org). Its Talayotic prehistoric sites are on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Maó and Ciutadella face each other across the island; between them, the coves of the south coast and the Camí de Cavalls path around the shore.
Maó and Ciutadella
Ciutadella, in the west, has its harbour below the old walls and the town hall; Maó, the capital, lies on its deep harbour in the east.
The coves
Cala Macarella is the classic south-coast cove, reached through the pines. Access and parking at the busiest coves are limited in summer: check the Consell Insular de Menorca before you go.
A Biosphere Reserve since 8 October 1993 (UNESCO).
Getting there
Ferries cross from Port d’Alcúdia to Ciutadella, and flights connect Palma with Menorca: check current operators and times on their own websites.
Our advice: stay a night in Ciutadella and swim early, before the coves fill.
Why it's on our list
- Maó and Ciutadella
- The coves
- Getting there
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Menorca: the back story before you go.
What’s nearby
Distances from Menorca: the back story are approximate, measured in a straight line (as the crow flies). Times are approximate too: walking at about 80 metres a minute, cycling at about 15 km/h and driving at typical city-traffic speeds. Traffic and routes vary.
Key sights
- Cap de Formentor59 kmCar or taxi 93 min