MENORCA

We were here: 5 days at the end of September 2016.
Number of days required: at least 3.
My score: 4/5.

Few know that it belonged to United Kingdom during almost the entire eighteenth century, at the same time that Spain lost Gibraltar. Although the Caribbean island of Trinidad was given in exchange, we could say that we Spanish can still thank (and probably the only thing we may thank him) Napoleon for helping to recover it, because although similar to the others, Menorca is a small paradise that nobody should resign to. It is inevitable to compare the islands that make up the Balearic archipelago among themselves; all get a very high rate, since on one hand they are more or less similar, and on the other each one has its own merits:

It does not have the mountains in Mallorca, nor its long beaches of fine white sand are so great that those in Formentera, but within the vortex of spectacular coves that abound in these islands, maybe those of Menorca are the best group:
- In the southern part most are white sand, surrounded by vegetation, mainly pine and Mediterranean forest. Some of the most famous can be covered on foot through the Camino de Caballos (Horses’ trail).
- In the north, thanks to a different geological process, there are red sand beaches, where in addition to the sea, bathers enjoy mud baths.
There are no big cities, but some towns have notable architectural aspects, the main Binibeca, a beautiful white village with an extremely original architecture. The historic center of Mahón and Ciudadela are not a big deal but do not detract from a visit either.
It does not have the Ibiza party, nor does it need to; what differentiates Menorca from the other 3 islands is tranquility. It seems that being the furthest from the peninsula and the shortage of direct flights (apart from Barcelona and Madrid) discourages many from going, which is a blessing. It is the only one where even in the middle of summer we can find a spot on a beach or a seat on a terrace, where there are not so many bars or music at full volume in each cove, but if we want to party we can also find it. Paradoxically, here is one of the best-considered premises of the Islands, Cova d’en Xoroi, a bar / disco located in a natural cave with unbeatable views of the sea.

It is the last hope for those who want to go to the Balearic Islands looking for a certain tranquility and can only travel in summer time. If you belong to that group, do not give it publicity, Menorca will thank you.