8-day tour of Menorca | Tours of Spain

Itinerary

You’ll base yourself in the south and travel across the whole island from there. From the chic harbour in the east to the terraces of Ciutadella in the west. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon hidden coves that require a short walk to reach, but they’re more than worth the effort.

Pace

You don’t need to pack your suitcase every day, as you’ll be staying in one place. The distances are short, so there’s no stress and plenty of time for a leisurely lunch or a spontaneous dip.

Highlights

Visit the huge natural harbour of Mahón and the fort, or spot rare birds in S’Albufera d’Es Grau Nature Reserve. From the top of Monte Toro, you can see the whole island, whilst the nearby prehistoric sites take you back in time. Walk through the Algendar Gorge, explore the coastal caves and take a kayak out onto water so clear that you’ll stop paddling to admire the seabed.

Accommodation

Seven nights in an excellent Caractère hotel in the south, close to the sea. With a hire car, you can plan your own itinerary and stop wherever you like.

Profile

For the active traveller who loves nature, history and quiet beaches. You prefer to organise your own days rather than stay at a busy resort.

Day 1: Departure for Mahón

You’ll fly directly to Mahón, the bustling capital of Menorca. Your first impressions of the island will reveal some of its most beautiful spots, with breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. Once you arrive, you’ll collect your hire car and head to the hotel, located in the south of the island, where you’ll be staying for seven nights.

Day 2: Mahón

Start your adventure with a visit to the charming capital, Mahón, or as the locals call it, Maó-Mahón. The town has a large natural harbour, with the imposing Fortalesa de Mola protecting the harbour from external attacks. Lose yourself in the town and be charmed by beautiful Mahón, where you can admire a succession of historic buildings and monuments and visit the daily market.

Day 3: S'Albufera d'es Grau – Menorca’s most beautiful nature reserve

Enjoy the flora and fauna in Menorca’s most beautiful and important nature reserve, S’Albufera d’Es Grau. This nature park is characterised by its marshes, large lakes, rugged coastline and over 200 species of birds.

You can then visit the Torre de Fornells, one of over 160 defence towers built by the British Empire in the western Mediterranean. There are wonderful walks to be had in the surrounding area, and when you start to feel peckish, you can choose from a selection of delicious seafood restaurants.

Day 4: Es Mercadal - Monte Toro

The adventure continues in Es Mercadal, one of Menorca’s most beautiful villages, situated at the foot of Monte Toro. This 358-metre-high hill is the highest point on the island, offering a magnificent view across the island. From here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view stretching across the island and, on a clear day, even as far as the neighbouring island of Mallorca. Afterwards, you’ll head to the two largest and best-preserved Talayotic archaeological sites on the island.

Day 5: the charming harbour town of Ciutadella de Menorca

You’ll start day five with a visit to Menorca’s second-largest town, Ciutadella de Menorca. This town consists of a maze of narrow cobbled streets, small squares, stairways and steep lanes. During your city walk, you’ll see, among other things, the striking Can Saura and the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Ciutadella.

Ciutadella de Menorca is also known for some of the island’s most beautiful beaches, ideal for relaxing and soaking up the sun. In the afternoon, you’ll unwind on a secluded fine-sand beach before rounding off the day with a stunning sunset near a lighthouse.

Day 6: Barranco d’Algendar – Cales Coves

Undoubtedly one of Menorca’s most beautiful natural areas is Barranco d’Algendar. It is a gorge approximately 7 kilometres long, through which you can walk along winding footpaths. This gorge is one of the island’s most beautiful spots, with unique locations where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views. If you’re lucky, you might spot eagles and vultures! You’ll then walk to an impressive cave in a hidden spot and discover one of Menorca’s longest beaches. You’ll round off the day with the remarkable Cales Coves, caves carved into the cliffs around the bay, featuring numerous dwellings and burial chambers. The caves were also inhabited for a long time by hippies from all over Europe, and even today people still live in some of the dwellings.

Day 7: Camí de Cavalls

Today you have the choice between a challenging hike or a relaxing boat trip. Or both, for those who enjoy a full day out. The Camí de Cavalls trail runs along the entire coast of Menorca, offering wonderful walks. The trail is 180 kilometres long in total and is divided into 20 stages. Mountain bikers can also follow this route. From various harbours, you can take a boat trip and discover heavenly white sandy beaches, steep cliffs and impressive gorges. Round off your final evening at one of the most spectacular spots in Menorca to watch the sunset.

Day 8: Kayak trip to the caves of Menorca

On the last day of your holiday, an exciting kayak trip to the caves of Menorca is on the programme. These caves, situated in one of the island’s most beautiful nature reserves, offer a unique opportunity to explore Menorca’s underwater world. Paddle through the crystal-clear water and discover the hidden treasures of the caves. It is an unforgettable experience that you mustn’t miss!

Day 9: back home

Unfortunately, your holiday is already over and it’s time to head home; you’ll be flying back with a heavy heart, but a suitcase full of memories. Fancy staying a few days longer? No problem, Caractère will sort that out for you!

Frequently asked questions about this Menorca tour

Is a hire car necessary for this Menorca tour?

Absolutely. The most beautiful hidden coves and the best restaurants are scattered across the island. Public transport will take you to the well-known spots, but with your own car you’ll discover precisely those places not marked on the standard map.

What is the best time of year for this Menorca nature tour?

Choose May, June, September or October. Then you can enjoy gentle sunshine and a pleasant sea breeze without having to jostle with the crowds. Ideal for those who prefer to leave the hustle and bustle to others.

What makes this Menorca trip different from island holidays in Ibiza or Mallorca?

Menorca is the green, tranquil little brother of the Balearic Islands. Here you won’t find overcrowded beach clubs, but unspoilt nature and an atmosphere where you can truly recharge your batteries.