THE JOURNAL
View of the mainland from the gallery at Hauser & Wirth, Illa del Rei island, Mahon Harbour. Photograph by Mr Daniel Schäfer, courtesy of Hauser & Wirth
When you think of the Balearic Islands in Spain, Ibiza or Mallorca likely come to mind – after all, they seem to be the most name-dropped vacation destinations in Europe. Ibiza in particular, the hedonistic White Isle, has been a popular destination for partygoers since the 1960s (and for good reason). But, let’s just say you’re getting a bit older and a bit less into all-nighters and raging benders. In this case, Menorca, the quieter and lesser-visited island in the Balearic archipelago, may be your gal. In recent years, the little island has experienced an influx of design-led hotels, gallerists, and travellers seeking a slower pace of life. Here’s our definitive guide to Menorca.
01.
Where to stay
Left: view of the garden and pool at The Cristine Bedfor Hotel, Mahón. Photograph by Mr Daniel Schäfer, courtesy of Cristine Bedfor Hotel. Right: lobby at the Menorca Experimental. Photograph by Mr Karel Balas, courtesy of The Experimental Group
Upon arriving in Menorca, you'll likely land in Mahón, the island’s charming capital. We recommend spending a day or two exploring the city’s winding streets, which are filled with design-led boutiques and local crafts. The cheerful Cristine Bedfor hotel is the perfect base for your exploration, boasting a sweet little pool and garden to retreat to during the siesta time when the sun gets too hot. Each of the 21 rooms is decorated with antiques sourced by the hotel’s owner, Ms Cristina Lozano, and features brightly patterned textiles.
For a more remote experience, head to Menorca Experimental – a 19th-century finca transformed into a design-lover’s paradise inspired by an artist’s retreat. Each room is picture-perfect and full of character, with textiles from LRNCE, local pottery, and a palette of pale blues and golden yellows. The hotel’s restaurant sources many ingredients from the 30 hectares of farmland that surround the hotel and offers an extensive selection of modern Mediterranean small plates.
If you’re visiting the island with a large group, consider renting out a traditional Menorcan home. Finca Bellavista, a quietly luxurious converted five-bedroom farmhouse, sleeps 10 and is situated just 400m from Son Saura beach. The pared-back interiors celebrate the best of the island, with whitewashed walls, stone-tiled floors, and locally sourced trinkets and textiles. The Finca’s team can arrange bespoke experiences and even provide the services of a private chef.
02.
What to see and do
Left: Cantina at Hauser & Wirth, Illa del Rei island, Mahon Harbour. Photograph by Mr Daniel Schäfer, courtesy of Hauser & Wirth. Right: Cala Mitjana beach, Menorca. Photo by Mr Pelayo Arbués/Unsplash
While Menorca embraces a slower pace of life compared to its Balearic neighbours, there is no shortage of things to do. Art lovers must visit the Hauser & Wirth outpost, which opened in July 2021 on Isla del Rey, an island within Mahón’s natural harbour. This gallery has taken over the site of a grand but crumbling former naval hospital and showcases a rotating selection of exhibitions, along with permanent sculptures from Ms Louise Bourgeois and Mr Joan Miró.
For those seeking a dose of history, a trip to the town of Ciutadella, nestled on the west coast of Menorca, is well worth it. Its labyrinthine streets are adorned with palaces, Gothic churches, and charming fish bars. Settle in for the evening with a round of pomadas (the local gin and lemonade) and watch the world go by in one of the town’s bustling squares.
A visit to Menorca wouldn’t be complete without stopping at one of the island’s many beaches. Cala Mitjana is worth the slightly longer walk. Park on the road and walk for about 15 minutes through the pine forest before reaching this rocky little cove. Bring a picnic (there aren’t any beach bars here) and take a dip in the clear blue waters. If you are seeking sundowners, Son Bou is a good choice – the boardwalk is lined with beach bars, making it the ideal spot for catching the sunset.
If you are feeling adventurous, hop onto the 115km Camí de Cavalls (or “path of horses”) and hike all or part of the circular trail around the island, which traces the coast, passing through hidden coves, pristine beaches and pine forests. Some brave pilgrims will hike the whole path in one trip, but it’s also easy to join for a few hours.
03.
Where to eat
Left: the terrace at Bodegas Binifadet, Menorca. Photograph courtesy of Binifadet. Right: cod with cauliflower cream at Bodegas Binifadet, Menorca. Photograph by Mr Jordi Barrera, courtesy of Binifadet
You might not think of Menorca when you think of wine, but the local winery Binifadet produces the island’s most popular tipple. A visit to their picturesque winery situated in the southeastern coastal municipality of Sant Lluis is the ideal way to while away an afternoon. Explore the 24 hectares of vineyards before sitting down at their patio restaurant for local sardines and a selection of cheeses.
Back in Mahón, you’ll find the fish market in Plaça d’Espanya. Operating since the 1920s, its where to go to find plates of paella, pan con tomate, pintxos and, of course, fresh fish daily. Pull up a seat in the central courtyard and immerse yourself in local life.
04.
Where to party
Left: evening on the terrace at Nonna Bazaar, Menorca. Right: boat on the coast of Menorca. Photographs by Ms Laura Mazzello for Nonna Bazaar
Menorca does not have the party reputation of Ibiza or Mallorca. But while you won’t find a super club on the island, there are still places to get your fix after dark. Nonna Bazaar takes over another converted farmhouse. Sure, you can explore the vegetable gardens and just soak up the Mediterranean charm of the place in the early evening. But it’s post-sunset when Nonna truly comes to life. Get ready as the in-house DJ revs up and drinks start to flow. It is a place for dancing, so make sure to pack the right shoes.