Central Menorca – it isn’t the main area of the island you would head for is it? After all you would think that the best place to go would be to the coasts and the fabulous beaches you would find there. But the truth is that all parts of Menorca – even the central parts – hold secrets and surprises that are worth seeing.

There is a road that cuts right through the middle of the island and can take you from the most western point to the eastern reaches of Menorca. All you have to do is get on this road and you will eventually come across El Mercadal midway along it. Mount Toro isn’t far from Es Mercadal so you also have the opportunity to climb to the highest point on Menorca in the same day if you wish.

But let’s get back to the delights of Es Mercadal. Here you will find many things worth discovering, including the market that the area is famous for. It has been held here for many hundreds of years, as long ago as the 1300s in actual fact. Perhaps you will follow in the footsteps of many others who have been here in years gone by to buy their provisions. You will certainly be carrying on a tradition.

Elsewhere you will spot the famous sandals that give Es Mercadal another claim to fame. They used to have a very practical use but now it is the tourists who buy them in great numbers to wear on holiday and take back home with them. Have a look for the almond biscuits as well – these are another claim to fame that El Mercadal has.

In truth this is not an area that lots of tourists flock to. The mountain looming over it is another matter though, and although El Mercadal does not really cater for tourists in a big way, you should see it if you visit the mountain. It will be worth the trip and whether you buy their sandals or not, you will appreciate the life that goes on here on a daily basis.