Holidays In Menorca

A Laid Back Island for a Laid Back Activity

2011-02-14T14:59:00.002Z

Okay so your first thought is probably that we’re talking about laid back as in lying on the beach. But we were actually thinking of something you would do standing up, albeit at a rather sedate pace. We’re talking about walking, and there is no better place to do it than in Menorca.

Some people find Menorca too quiet and they prefer somewhere (like Majorca) with a bit more liveliness to get them going. But Menorca is just right for many other people, and if you happen to enjoy walking you’ll love every inch of the terrain you can traverse here.

If lazy holidays spent on the beach don’t really appeal to you too much, you will appreciate the idea of getting some exercise on a daily basis. Walking is the perfect activity to show you what Menorca is all about too, as you can plan a route that takes you between some of the nice spots on the island. If you are staying for a week or more you will have plenty of time to see many of the major sights on the island. Cala n Porter and Punta Prima are just two of the destinations you could head for while you are there.

The great thing about walking around Menorca is that you don’t have to go on a route march. You can just go at your own pace and see what you find en route. Sometimes the best places of all are those that you trip over while you are on your way to somewhere else!

If you don’t know the island at all, do some research and print out a few possible walking routes to try before you go. Start with something short and sweet because you will want to ensure you can handle the hot weather. Make sure you have plenty of fluids with you and some comfortable proper walking shoes. Sandals aren’t ideal for longer treks around Menorca.

Once you get going you may find a nice long walk virtually every day you are there is just what the doctor ordered.

Is Menorca Preferable to Majorca?

2011-01-14T16:10:00.002Z

Well of course it all depends on who you talk to. Some people will say that there is nothing better than a Majorcan holiday to really let you unwind. Others meanwhile will head for Menorca every time, knowing there is something about it that cannot be beaten.

It is true that Menorca is the smaller counterpart of Majorca. But this alone should not have much of a bearing on the situation. These islands are not small enough to hinder any exploration during a week or two away there, so you should make the most of ensuring that you pick the right island for you.

However many people know that Menorca is arguably more laid back than Majorca. The latter is known for its nightclubs and vibrant nights out, but if you don’t want that from your holiday then Menorca could be the better choice for you. Certainly many families choose it because of this – you don’t really want to stay in amongst all the nightclubs if you are going to be putting the kids to bed every night.

Obviously the lack of noise and lively nights will put some people off and send them across to Majorca. But if it’s peace and quiet you’re after, Menorca is the place to get it. You will also be able to enjoy the many beaches you will find here, along with the resorts that are frequented by many happy travellers every year.

If you have been to Menorca before you will probably know where you want to stay. But don’t fall for the idea of frequenting the same places all the time. Take the opportunity to explore the island and see what it has in store for you. It might be small, this island, but it packs a lot into its mass without becoming overrun by tourists at the same time.

In a sense Menorca has managed to put all the best parts of a holiday in this region into one place, without being ruined at the same time. You will be glad you opted for Menorca – and we defy you not to go back.

What is the Attraction of Son Bou in Menorca?

2010-12-15T15:58:00.002Z

You know, if you have to ask that question the chances are you have not yet visited this part of Menorca. If you had you would know why many people are drawn to it on an annual basis, and why they never want to leave once they get there.

Son Bou is located on the southern stretches of the island, about halfway along that stretch of coastline. It is known for being the longest beach that Menorca has to offer, and as such it is well worth seeing and heading to for your own piece of sand on which to relax and sunbathe all day.

Son Bou keeps right on going for a massive three kilometres and it has plenty of room to cater for everyone. The waters here are delightfully clear and blue and it is a beach that is loved by everyone who visits it. Lots of families come here as the waters are shallow quite a way out from the beach. This means that children can happily play and their parents don’t have to worry about the water being too rough either.

If you want to you can stay in one of the hotels that is situated on the beach here. You might also elect to stay somewhere else nearby, such as a private villa for example. There are pros and cons of each but the temptation of a private pool as well as this stunning beach could well be too much to resist for some people.

The area also has the lovely advantage of having a range of beach bars where you can grab a bite to eat and a refreshing drink as well. Many say that Son Bou has been created just for families, although of course other couples and individuals visit the location as well. There is no doubt that whatever kind of holiday you want in Menorca you will probably be able to have it right here. You won’t want for anything and with everything focused around that superbly long beach, you can see why.

Discovering Es Mercadal

2010-11-16T08:59:00.002Z

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.

S’Albufera des Grau on Menorca

2010-10-15T10:09:00.000Z

It’s common enough to think only of beaches when you go to an island like Menorca. But there is enough greenery there to entertain the most enthusiastic of walkers as well. If you have packed your walking boots as well as your flip flops, make sure you visit S’Albufera des Grau while you are on the island.

This is a park on the north eastern coast of Menorca and it has plenty to offer to those who pay it a visit. Sometimes there are guided tours as well so you can take advantage of these to learn more about the area and what goes on there.

One good thing about the park is that it is right on the coast. This means you can enjoy some sensational views out across the water as well as enjoying all the sights and sounds in the park itself.

Fortunately the land here is now preserved so it will remain as it is for the foreseeable future. Lots of birds and animals make their home here and you should look out for them while you are there. You can also enjoy exploring Grau as well – the village nearby that the park takes its name from. It probably won’t surprise you to learn that there is a delightful beach here as well, so make the most of spending a day or two in the area to explore everything you can.

It’s worth knowing you can set off on a self guided walk here too. Make sure you have a map and plenty to drink with you though, as well as some snacks. Needless to say you’ll need sun lotion as well to avoid getting burnt.

Some of the walks have sections that are steep, so be prepared to burn off some energy as you negotiate your way around sections of S’Albufera des Grau. It is worth doing though as you will see what lots of other hikers and walkers have seen before you – plenty of amazing views and some amazing wetlands as well. It is worth the effort, and you can always relax on the beach nearby afterwards.

Family Friendly Menorca Holidays

2010-09-16T10:35:00.002Z

Menorca is a delight to visit no matter who you are travelling with. But if you are taking the kids with you it is important to know that your chosen destination is going to be suitable for them. Menorca certainly fits the bill in this case.

When you have kids you will probably want a good beach holiday and Menorca can give you this quite easily indeed. The Balearics are known for their clubs and bars too, but in the case of Menorca you won’t see this quite as much. It bridges the gap between quiet islands and islands that don’t know when to quit – and as a family it makes the perfect choice to go with.

As you might expect this makes Menorca very busy during the summer holidays. If you have younger children and it is possible to book a break just before the holidays get underway, you will be able to enjoy a quieter time. It won’t be quite as busy and this can be good if you hate crowded beaches.

Don’t miss out on visiting such delights as the Los Delfines Aqua Park either. Every child of every age will love everything on offer here, and you will enjoy the safe surroundings as well. As you can see there is plenty to look forward to when you visit Menorca on a family holiday.

Of course the island also benefits from having lots of beaches, but you need to choose carefully when you have young children to think about. One of the best ones has to be Son Parc, as it is ideal for swimming. The water is incredibly shallow for some distance as it slopes very gently into the sea. This means even the young ones can enjoy it and make the most of every minute they spend there.

There is no doubt that Menorca is a delightful place to go to if you like family friendly destinations. With ideal beaches, plenty to do and lots to explore as well, you will never be short of thing to do even if you do have children under 5 with you.

A Forgotten Sight In Menorca?

2010-08-17T10:54:00.003Z

If you are planning a holiday in Menorca in the near future you may have been flicking through guide books in the hope of jotting down a few places to go to while you are there. Did you come across the Lithica quarries in those books? If you didn’t you should definitely add them to your list, because they are nothing short of stunning.

These are sandstone quarries and some of them date back as far as the Roman era. The various quarries are being turned into gardens and some of them are quite beautiful. This is a non-profit work in progress so you should expect to see work going on while you are there.

You can visit the Medieval Garden in the Quarry of the Prows. This is a very practical garden with herbs grown for medicinal purposes among other things. Even this corner of Lithica alone is worth seeing, but there is much else to see besides this.

Another part of Lithica consists of the Great Labyrinth Project. There are four labyrinths set aside for future development, and while nothing is happening with them at the moment the site is still well worth seeing. Just imagine what has happened here over the years – it is certainly a fertile site for the mind and imagination.

Above all it is the scale of the place that really takes your breath away. This is much larger and more sprawling than you might imagine. There is much to be seen and explored here, and even areas that have not yet received much attention are worth looking at. From some vantage points you can see mazes and structures below, giving you a day out you will remember for some time to come. Watch out for the maps as well – the botanic circuit is well worth doing while you are there.

As you can see the Lithica area is something of an undiscovered gem in Menorca. It may not be as well known as some other days out on the island, but it’s certainly a day out you won’t forget.

The Ancient Side Of Menorca

2010-07-19T16:01:00.002Z

When you visit Menorca today you tend to focus on the modern side of it, and all the entrapments of the traditional summer holiday. For instance there are the beaches, the gorgeous blue sea and the many and varied places you can stay in when it comes to visiting this beautiful island.

But with any island like this, it also has a past to consider. And with Menorca the past is just as interesting – if not more so – than its present.

One thing you cannot miss when you visit Menorca is Naveta des Tudons. You may not be any the wiser initially when you see those words, unless you already know something of the history of the island.

The Naveta des Tudons is a burial site, and an ancient one at that. The chamber is roofed and it is the oldest one of its kind in the whole of Spain. Amazingly enough it was only uncovered in the 1950s, and it brought to light a whole new side of the island that was heretofore undiscovered.

This discovery meant that one hundred corpses that were buried there were suddenly revealed to the rest of the island. The site is located on the Mahon-Ciutadella road, and it is far over on the western side of the island. Happily it will cost you nothing to see the Naveta des Tudons, and it is definitely worth doing so.

As soon as you lay eyes on the building you will see that it is indeed thousands of years old. There are two levels to the construction and as you wander around the building you will see that the stones have been very precisely placed together. When you consider the art of modern building it is a wonder how expertly this ancient one was constructed.

Some say there is a distinct feeling and atmosphere about the place and this is hard to argue with. It is more crowded at some times than others, but if you can get there earlier in the day before the rest of the holidaymakers do you will have a better chance of appreciating the quiet and stillness there.

Are You Up For El Toro?

2010-06-17T12:46:00.000Z

In many ways it is always a good idea to visit the highest point of wherever you happen to be visiting. Not only can you look down on where you are staying for your holiday, you can also see for miles on many occasions and get a whole new feel for the country you are in.

The same goes for Menorca. If you want to try this out, the place you need to head for is El Toro. This sounds quite dramatic and indeed the view from here certainly lives up to that. We cannot really call it a mountain – it is more of a hill than anything – but it still claims a height of over 350 metres so it is worth taking the trip to the top.

It isn’t too taxing for those who aren’t used to mountain climbing on a regular basis either. Just make sure you take plenty of water and some snacks with you, in case you find the heat a bit much. A lot depends on the weather conditions when you go, as well as the time of year.

The good news is that there is an easy path which winds its way right up to the top and this is wide enough for cars to use if you don’t fancy the walk. If you do take the car you will be pleased to know there is ample parking once you reach the summit.

And you can grab a snack here too as there will be a café awaiting you. This is the ideal place to plan your lunch, so make sure you leave in plenty of time to ascend El Toro before stopping for lunch at the top. You can then take your time looking around and getting plenty of photos of the view, which is quite spectacular.

There is also a church here and a statue of Christ, which also draws in the visitors. The church itself is not a busy one though, so you will find a moment to sit and enjoy the peace as you explore everything El Toro has to offer.

Would You Prefer A Menorca Villa Or The Beach?

2010-05-19T13:04:00.003Z

If you are thinking about heading out to Menorca for your summer holiday this year, it’s worth thinking about the kind of accommodation you want to stay in. Most people will want to stay somewhere that is nice and close to the beach – but are you ‘most people’?

There is a lot to be said for staying in a private Menorca villa during your stay, particularly if it has a nice swimming pool included with it. Make sure if you spot one of these that it doesn’t have a shared pool. If you are going to all the trouble of staying somewhere secluded and relaxing, it makes sense that you would want the pool to yourself as well.

This isn’t to say you wouldn’t fancy the odd trip down to the nearest beach of course. But if you dislike the noise and the crowds and you don’t really like swimming in the sea too much, a private pool can be so much more inviting. You still have the best of both worlds if the beach isn’t too far away, and you can also enjoy sunbathing whenever you like.

Oh and of course there is another great benefit to staying in a Menorca villa like this as well. You don’t have to worry about trawling all the way to the beach laden down with bags and snorkelling gear. Instead you can simply walk out of your villa onto the patio and hey presto, there is your pool ready and waiting for you.

As such it is also good if you have young children and you’re heading out to Menorca for the first time. Every parent will know the huge amount of gear that has to be carried around with you to cater for all child related eventualities. As such, having a villa to stay in with a pool right there on the property can make life so much easier.

So the question is this – are you going to be a dedicated pool and villa fan this year, or will you just head out to the nearest beach?

Great Offerings On The South Coast Of Menorca

2010-04-19T09:08:00.001Z

The southern coast of Menorca provides the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to the island if you have never been before. With places such as Son Saura, Cala Torret, Punta Prima and Cala Mitjana to explore, you will never tire of finding out all that the south coast has to offer you.

There are plenty of good resorts and places to stay on this side of the island, so whatever you are looking for you have a good chance of finding it. Cala’n Forcat is a good bet for families as it offers good accommodation and a water park nearby as well. This will give you the chance to enjoy a day away from the beach if you fancy a change of scene while you are there.

Wherever you go though, there are some wonderful beaches awaiting you. If you want hidden coves you’ll find them in plentiful numbers on the south coast. Perhaps this is one of the main reasons why some people return to southern Menorca every year. It certainly has a lot to offer in the way of quieter spots to relax in. You can happily look for secluded spots away from the main beaches to enjoy all to yourself if that’s the kind of holiday you are after.

As you might expect from a popular holiday destination like Menorca, some of the beaches have been overhauled to better cater for holidaymakers. But many of them are still more natural and much quieter in appearance, and there’s no doubt many people prefer it this way.

If it is a peaceful holiday you want on Menorca, the south coast is the place to have it. With miles of sandy beaches and the sea gently lapping at each and every one of them, you will feel spoiled and steeped in luxury at every turn. You’ll have a hard time dragging yourself away when it is time to go home, but before then you can enjoy every single minute of calm and peacefulness that Menorca can offer you.

When you have the south coast, why go anywhere else?

Exploring The Cala Morell Necropolis

2010-03-19T12:47:00.000Z

Never heard of Cala Morell before? Don’t worry – it isn’t one of the best known resorts in the whole of Menorca. For that reason it is worth considering as a possible venue for your Menorcan holiday.

Size wise Cala Morell is pretty small and for that reason it doesn’t tend to get overrun by tourists. This makes it a potential destination for you if you happen to be looking for somewhere that is quiet and less touristy than some other destinations in Menorca.

Cala Morell is perhaps best known for its caves rather than its tourist scene. The caves can be explored quite freely and indeed many tourists make the trip here from other places in Menorca to see them. The most stunning aspect of them is that they are not made by nature. Instead they were carved and hollowed out by man. When you take a closer look at the caves you can see the various marks on them that illustrate this.

These caves were in use many centuries ago so it is really like going back in time when you step inside them and see how they were created. A necropolis, as you may know, is used to bury the dead. You will see various cavities and other smaller holes there as well, and although we don’t know what they were used for, many suspect they were used for burial urns after a cremation.

It might sound quite macabre but in fact a visit to the Cala Morell Necropolis is an eye opening thing to do while you are in the area. Even if you decide not to stay close by in Cala Morell you should certainly go there to see back into history as it was many centuries ago. There are fourteen caves in all, so it isn’t just a five minute visit either. You can see how they are all close together and look at the columns that hold up the ceiling. It is quite safe to enter these caves, and if you think about how long they have already been there, the chances are good that they will still exist many centuries into the future.

Menorca – A Quieter Escape

2010-02-16T08:08:00.001Z

Many areas of Spain and the Balearic Islands are renowned as the venues to go to if you want to sunbathe by day and party by night. But in Menorca there is an altogether different atmosphere waiting for you.

This is the island of the beaches. We can call it that because despite its relatively small size it has beaches which number into three figures. Can you imagine having that many beaches to choose from when you visit this small island?

As you might expect they are dotted all around the coast, and there is something here for you no matter what you demand from a nice beach. Make no mistake though, Menorca offers a more relaxing and laid back view of the Balearic Islands, rather than the excitement of Majorca. If this suits you, let’s take a look at some of the beaches you could soon be laying back on.

Cala’n Porter is a good place to start as it is relatively well equipped without being packed with tourists. It does depend on when you go of course, but you can reasonably expect a relaxing time here. You can either drive down to the beach or brave the steps that go down there – but since there are nearly two hundred of them make sure you go prepared!

Santo Tomas is a great bet if you really do want to go to the beach for the day and be relatively uninterrupted. This is traditionally a quiet spot to visit but it does have facilities for you to use as well, which make it even more pleasant.

Punta Prima is about as far to the south east of Menorca as it is possible to get without wading into the sea. You can do that here too of course but be careful as the location of the beach makes the sea very exposed. And when you have had enough of the beach and of swimming you can visit one of the restaurants for a bite to eat.

And these beaches merely touch the surface of what Menorca has to offer. Which one will you pick?

Are You Ready For The Rush Of The Aquapark?

2010-01-18T12:11:00.003Z

If you are going to visit a sun soaked island for a summer holiday, you have to head into the water sooner or later. It’s one of the best ways to keep cool, relax and have some fun as well.

But the sea isn’t the only option you have when you go to Menorca. You also have the Los Delfines Aquapark – and it provides a great day out for the whole family, regardless of what age your kids are or what kind of water rides you enjoy the most.

Let’s take a look at just some of the great examples you have to enjoy yourself while getting wet. For starters there are the water tunnels. Climb to the top of the rock, head down the tunnels inside and find yourself splashing out into the big pool below. There is more than one tunnel and you can climb back up to the top and enjoy them as many times as you like.

If you want something a bit more challenging than that, the Los Delfines Aquapark has everything you could want. Try out the Giant Slide that gives you the chance to head down a huge slide in a giant tube – it cannot be beaten.

Except perhaps by the Kamikaze ride; this is a long tube that heads straight downwards. Be prepared for the fast speeds and the quick journey to the bottom!

The Adventure River is a popular ride as you can grab a figure of eight style tyre to sit in along with someone else. So if you fancy one of the best tube rides in the park and you don’t want to experience it alone, grab your best friend, your partner or your child and experience it together.

There’s plenty for the smaller children to do as well, with water slides and chutes to find in the dedicated children’s area. The Water Castle is another firm favourite as well, so as you can see you’ll find plenty to do and enjoy here, regardless of who you arrive with and how long you spend there.

See A Different Side To The Beaches In Menorca

2009-11-18T12:09:00.002Z

We all know that sunbathing is a key part of any summer holiday spent abroad. But some islands have some surprises in store for those who love the beach – and Menorca is a great example of this.

If you fancy the idea of journeying back to the Bronze Age, head for Cales Coves. They aren’t the easiest of places to access but the effort will certainly be worth it. Perhaps surprisingly the area is not very well catered for so it will pay you to hire some transport to reach the caves themselves.

But what can you expect to find once you get there?

Well, there are a hundred or so caves in the area, although you won’t always be able to see them all – even if you have a whole day to spend there. As with all caves not all of them can be safely accessed.

You might be surprised to hear that these caves were once burial caves too. And the caves are not all near the water. As you clamber down the gorge to reach the beach at Cales Coves, watch out for caves as you go. You’ll see some smaller ones that make the journey down to the beach and the water that bit longer!

As you can probably tell, this is ideal territory for anyone who loves exploring. One thing to remember though is a torch. Even if the weather is spectacular remember that the sun won’t be able to find its way into all the caves. It might be an idea to give your kids a torch as well, so they can see more of the caves that were burial chambers in another lifetime.

Be sure you go prepared when you pay a visit to the caves though. Despite the fact that they are a popular haunt for tourists there are no snack bars or other facilities of any kind in the area. Needless to say then a packed lunch is a great idea, plus anything else you would need to enjoy a quick dip in the sea before heading back to your apartment or hotel once again.

Treasure islands

2009-03-16T09:26:00.004Z

The four main islands of the Balearic archipelago – Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera – are famed for their beaches and 300 days of sun each year, but they also offer a surprising range of cultural opportunities.

In Palma, the Balearics' capital, important places to visit include the Pilar and Joan Miro Foundation, the Muesum of Spanish Modern Art, the cathedral with its Gaudi altarpiece, and the Gothic Maritime Exchange. The Es Baluard Modern Art Museum overlooking the port has three floors of galleries containing works by Miro, Picasso, Magritte, Tapies and Calder. The King's Garden, with its fountains, is a pleasant place to sit and watch the world go by.

A tour of Majorca reveals a variety of cultural treats, beginning with the Alfabia gardens, in the Traumuntana mountains, where a 12th-century Moorish viceroy constructed a lush oasis with some 40 species of trees and flowering plants.

The town of Soller, north of Palma, has Modernist gems such as St Bartholomew's church and Can Prunera, a house dating from the start of the last century with an eleborate facade, while The Station Building Gallerie-sart gallery at the railway station on Placa Espanya displays Joan Miro engravings and Picasso ceramics.

In Deia, southwest of Soller, literary buffs can browse through Robert Graves's house, now a museum where the writer's books, personal items and printing press are displayed.

Son Marroig, west of Deia, was the retreat of the Austrian archduke Luis Salvador who died in 1915. His mansion displays Mediterranean ceramics, antiques and paintings. The Deia International Music Festival holds classical concerts here from April to October.

Valldemossa, 18 km north of Palma, is the site of the Royal Carthusian Monastery founded in 1339. It was here that Frederic Chopin and Baroness Amandine Dupin – the French novelist better known as George Sand – spent three months during the winter of 1838-39.

Treasures include the frescoes over the nave, painted by Goya's brother-in-law, the perfectly preserved pharmacy and the Chopin and Sand apartments, including the original piano.

Pollensa, 55km northeast of Palma, is a pretty town inhabited since Roman times. Its international music festival held in July and August has attracted starts such as Rostropovich and Jessye Norman to perform in the St Domingo's Convent cloisters.

For a completely different world, head to Menorca, the second biggest of the Balearic Islands, largely undeveloped and rich in Neolithic taulas (T-shaped stone monuments) and talayots (stone cones). Mahon, one of the main cities, was established as the island's capital in 1722 when the British began their 80-year sojourn.

Four-storey Georgian town houses with sash windows still remain. The Scientific, Literary and Artistic Centre is filled with paintings and mementoes of Menorcan writers, poets and musicians, along with natural artefacts from seashells to stuffed birds. The Principal Theatre, built in 1824 as an opera house, is a miniature La Scala.

Menorca's main cultural events are Mahon's international opera week and the Capella Davidica concerts at the other main city Ciutadella, along with the summer organ festivals in Santa Maria Church, Mahon, and Ciutadella cathedral. Easter week in Mahon brings out spectral penitents, while in late June Ciutadella's dancing horses perform in honour of St John the Baptist.

Ibiza, long famed for sun, sand and hard-partying, is not without its share of music, dance, architecture and archeology. The walled medieval upper part of the town of Ibiza is a Unesco World Heritage site. The Contemporary Art Museum has interesting permanent and temporary exhibits, while both the Ethnography Museum and the Archaeological Museum show evidence of the many cultures that have inhabited the island over the past 3,000 years.

In mid-August Ibiza temporarily sheds its party image with opera nights held in the cloister of the Town Hall.

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Spain loses 1 million UK tourists on crisis and weak pound

2009-01-15T09:51:00.004Z

One million Britons have abandoned Spain's bars and beaches in the last year after the pound dived against the euro and the financial crisis took hold, Spain's main tourism trade body said on Wednesday.

Spain, the world's second biggest tourist destination after France, relies on tourism for around 10 percent of its GDP or some 100 billion euros a year. It welcomed 16 million Britons, or 28 percent of all foreign arrivals in 2007.

But, in 2008 the pound weakened to near-parity with the euro - a 22.4 percent fall - and cost-conscious Brits looked to holiday in non-single currency destinations to the east.

"Spain has lost 1 million British tourists in 2008. The British are being turned more towards Turkey or Egypt," said Sebastian Escarrer, the chairman of trade body Exceltur and also chief executive of Spain's biggest hotel group, Sol Melia.

He said for the first time he could remember, no British tour operator was operating flights to Spain's Balearic islands of Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza this winter.

Exceltur said Spain's tourism income would fall 5.7 percent this year as the global economic crisis deepened. Spain will earn 40.5 billion euros (36.5 billion pounds) from foreign tourists this year, Escarrer told reporters, down from 42.2 billion two years earlier, according to balance of payments data.

Earnings for the first 10 months of 2008 dropped by 4.1 percent. "Bad figures registered in November and the expected figures for December look like producing a bigger fall up to the end of the year," Exceltur said.

Exceltur, whose members include Spain's main airlines, hoteliers, travel agents and car hire companies said not only was demand falling among foreigners, but also from Spaniards.

It said the number of nights spent by Spaniards in Spanish hotels will fall 5 percent this year. It added that even among the best performers, hotels' key revenue per available room (RevPar) indicator had fallen between 5 and 7 percent over 2008.

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Travel Expert Charmed By Wonderful Menorca

2009-01-15T09:23:00.003Z

Menorca is a particularly peaceful Holiday destination during the low season, according to a travel expert.

The claim that Menorca has the best beaches in the Mediterranean "may very well be true", suggests Paul Richardson, writing for the Observer.

It is a fairly flat landscape on the island, with a gentle routine of market shopping and quiet dinners to be enjoyed outside its busiest months of the year, he adds.

"Many of Menorca's hotels and restaurants close for the winter but enough stay open to make for a perfectly wonderful low-key, low-season break," enthuses the travel expert.

The Balearic island has something of a "quirky charm", he concludes.

According to menorca.world-guides.com, the popular holiday destination is the second-largest of the Balearics after Majorca.

It states that tranquil family-friendly holiday resorts can be found on the south coast of the island, while fishing villages are waiting to be discovered on its rockier northern shores.

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Tourism booming in Balearic Islands

2008-11-28T12:13:00.003Z

The Balearic Islands is the second most popular holiday destination in the whole of Spain, according to statistics for 2008 so far, with Catalonia coming first, the Institution of International Tourism in Spain has announced.

The Balearics saw a staggering 7.5 million tourist arrivals between January and September of this year alone.

LoveSpainHolidays.com, the online holiday company specialising in the Balearics, has borne witness to the popularity of these islands for many years, but they have seen an even greater increase in bookings in 2008.

Founder of LoveSpainHolidays.com, Rafael Ocana, explains: "The Balearic Islands have been a tourist hotspot for decades now, with each island offering a different Balearic experience, from the excitement and hedonism of the Ibiza clubs, to the tranquility and beauty of the beaches of Formentera. It comes as no surprise that the islands came second only to Catalonia for tourism, given that Catalonia's capital is Barcelona.

Love Spain Holidays' bookings for holidays in the Balearics increased significantly at the end of 2007 and the first half of 2008, with people already booking up their 2009 holidays. Whether this is because the smaller islands are becoming more well known and the word is spreading about the beauty of the Balearics, or because the credit crunch is causing people to holiday closer to home is unclear. What is without doubt is that the Balearic Islands are firmly at the top of people's favourite holiday destination lists."

The FRONTUR report states that tourism in Spain has increased by 3% compared to last year, with 41.5 million visitors arriving in between January and September alone. Nearly two million of these tourists chose the Balearic Islands as their holiday destination in August alone, according to the report. There are many reasons why these islands are a perennial favourite among holiday-makers. They boast year-round sunshine, stunning scenery that ranges from white sandy beaches to mountainous peaks, a rich and inspiring cultural heritage and amenities that cater for every type of tourist, from the night-owls and sun worshippers to the art-lovers and bohemians.

Love Spain Holidays is an online one-stop shop for everything to do with the Balearic Islands. You can research into the history and culture of each island, find out what's on throughout the year, book flights to Ibiza, hotels in Mallorca and villas or apartments in Menorca. Whatever you need to know about all of the islands and whatever kind of holiday you would like to plan, you'll find everything you need at LoveSpainHolidays.com. And for those who have fallen in love with the islands and dream of moving there, you can even browse through property and businesses for sale in the Balearics.

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Sailing Holidays in Menorca

2008-09-25T10:29:00.000Z

Heading into the late summer months, many a traveler will look to head south and hit the shores. Popular destinations include various spots all around the Mediterreanean Sea, and the famous Balearic Islands of Spain.

Heading into the summer months, many a traveler will look to head south and hit the shores. Popular destinations include various spots all around the Mediterreanean Sea and the famous Balearic Islands of Spain.

The main islands of the Balearics are Menorca, Mallorca and Ibiza. One common way to get the best of all these islands is via the sailing route. But once that is determined, it is up to your group to decide which route to take.

Some decide to work on their sun tans and simply take it easy. Tanning by day and sailing ashore for some of the finest food and drink by night. On the other hand, some decide to go all out when sailing in Menorca - going climbing the cliffs around the island, snorkeling, deep sea diving and various other recreational pursuits.

Companies such as Go! Nautic provide private yacht charter with snorkelling packages and equipment available, and can also arrange that a fully qualified private diving instructor (PADI) is there for deep sea diving.

While single day yacht charters are available, for one to get a full view of the Balearics, a weekly or custom yacht charter is recommended. Try to find Menorca sailing holidays that allow you to plan your day according to your wishes and thus do not push pre-planned itineraries. This means you can tailor each trip to your very own needs. The only possible diversion is based on potential weather conditions. However, your group will be kept informed on weather conditions and any changes that may be necessary.

Not to worry though, as Climate is usually a sure shot, as sunshine is abundant. Temperatures range from 15 Celsius in the winter, to about 20-25 in the spring and autumn, while touching the 30's in the summer. With light winds generally, the conditions are usually just right for sailing. Sea temperature itself gets quite warm too, hitting 30 degrees Celsius in late summer.

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More Flights Going to Menorca Mahon

2007-07-17T09:42:00.002Z

Holidaymakers heading to Menorca (Mahon) now have more options to choose from, as a cheap flights provider has announced new flights from a UK airport.

Flyglobespan has announced that from this Saturday (June 30th 2007) holidaymakers can opt to fly to Mahon airport in Menorca from Durham Tees Valley Airport.

The carrier has also increased the frequency of flights to Alicante and Palma de Mallorca.

Flights to Menorca depart regularly from airports all over the UK including Manchester Airport, Stansted, Gatwick and Luton.

But it's not only flights that have become easier to book. Car rental and travel insurance can also be arranged quickly online, allowing travellers to land in their destination with everything they need including accommodation.

The UK is facing a wet summer that has seen barbecues filling up warehouses as Brits look up at grey skies and decide that it's not yet worth investing in a grill.

Instead many Britons are deciding to go abroad for their summer sun, with destinations in Spain, like Menorca and Palma de Mallorca among the favourite destinations.

Easyjet Announce New Routes From Bristol and Newcastle

2006-12-18T10:05:00.002Z

Easyjet's summer 2007 schedules from its UK regional bases will include three new routes from Newcastle and Bristol, as well as increased frequencies on popular sunshine routes.

The no-frills carrier will operate a four times weekly service between Newcastle and Krakow from April 1, and a twice daily service to Mahon, in Menorca, from July 14, increasing the total number of routes on offer from its northeast base to 18.

In addition Easyjet will also introduce a new three times weekly service between Bristol and Bordeaux on March 31, increasing to daily flights in June. This will bring the number of routes available at its southwest base to 30.

The remaining Easyjet schedule, including flights from the airline's London and European bases, will be released for sale within the next few weeks.

Cala Galdana

2006-11-20T10:07:00.000Z

Cala Galdana and the whole of Menorca is perfect for a relaxed but interesting holiday, during the summer there are fiestas in the local towns with horses and fun for all the family. There are great beaches, some with good access, parking, bar, toilets etc, and others are lost paradises in the med... get a boat and venture round, I got some great dvd postals of the island, postcards with dvd in them, there's one of Cala Galdana. I couldn't get to all the areas of the island so I got these dvd postal cards, now I can see more of the island and know where i'm going next year, the island is well worth going back to, so another visit to menorca next year.

This post was submitted by an anonymous traveller. Thank you.

Son Bou

2006-11-06T11:25:00.002Z

Son Bou has the largest and one of the finest beaches on the island, it is entered down the road from Alaior through a short tunnel. There are two sol hotels at the eastern end, the beach outside these hotels can get rather busy, so its best to take a five minute walk east.

This beach can be dangerous with strong currents at certain times. It is important that all parents with small children keep an eye on them when out swimming, also take a note of the warning flag above the red cross building on the beach which tells you when it's safe.

With nearly two kilometers of sand with plenty of beach bars it's easy to find a spot all to your selves. Be warned though the further west you go, the less clothes people have on!

Behind the beach is the San Jamie complex with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. Behind these the hillside running nearly the full length of the beach is full of magnificent looking villas.

Jet Ready to Win Free Flights With Monarch

2006-10-17T09:30:00.003Z

Low fares airline Monarch continues to fly the flag for quality low-cost travel from Luton Airport, and as we approach the winter months, now is the time to think about escaping for some winter sun.

With destinations in the Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal available, Monarch is one of the biggest players in European travel from Luton.

As well as low fares, which include complimentary daily newspapers and a refreshing hot towel service, Monarch offer a unique range of tasty hot and cold meals available with prices from 3 pounds.

Seats can be pre-booked at 5 pounds per one-way flight to avoid the last minute free-for-all, or you might prefer to try one of the 48 extra-legroom seats which offer up to six inches of extra space for just 15 pounds each way.

Regular travellers are rewarded too, with a range of benefits through the airline's loyalty scheme, Vantage Club.

Monarch flies up to 60 times per week from Luton Airport and fares start from just 40 pounds and 99 pence one way (67 pounds and 99 pence return), including all taxes.

The Croydon Guardian has teamed up with Monarch to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a pair of return flights to any of the destinations served by Monarch from Luton Airport, which include Alicante, Faro, Gibraltar, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Malaga, Menorca, Palma and Tenerife.

Monarch's Winter Flights - from 37.50 One-Way with Taxes

2006-10-10T16:47:00.000Z

Monarch scheduled is selling autumn and winter flights to its popular sunspots from 37.50 one-way including taxes.

The low-cost airline has released more than one million seats to Spain and Portugal from 37.50. Travel between October and March 2007.

Monarch flies from London Luton and Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham to popular holiday destinations such as Alicante, Almeria, Faro, Gibraltar, Gran Canaria, Ibiza, Lanzarote, Malaga, Menorca, Palma de Mallorca and Tenerife.

Xoriguer Distillery

2006-09-18T11:20:00.000Z

Menorca's 18th-century Xoriguer Gin Distillery is situated on the Moll de Ponent harbourfront. Visitors to this popular tourist attraction can admire the enormous copper stills, bubbling to produce the spirit, which is eventually blended with juniper berries to make the distinctive and fragrant Menorca gin. Xoriguer Distillery in Menorca also produces many other liquors and all of these drinks can be sampled on site and purchased at the distillery shop.

Attraction open: Monday to Friday - 08:00 to 19:00, Saturday - 09:00 to 13:00

Menorca Information Fact File

2006-07-10T09:21:00.000Z

Menorca population: 70,000

Menorca coordinates: 39"51'45" N, 04"13'07" E

Menorca time difference: GMT + 1

Menorca international dialling code: + 34

Menorcian language: Castilian (Spanish)

Spanish currency: Euro

Nightlife on Menorca

2006-06-02T10:43:00.000Z

The pace of life in Menorca is relaxed and unhurried. You can look forward to leisurely days enjoying the island's beautiful beaches. The long white expanses of Cala Galdana and Son Bou are perfect for sun-bathing & watersports. Inland Menorca is charming, dotted with ancient historic monuments. Nightlife is relatively low key, with just a handful of late night bars and discos in most resorts. Evenings are generally leisurely occasions with good food (look forward to tucking into some splendid seafood menus!), chilled wine and friendly company.

If your ideal holiday includes lively beaches, nightclubs and loud music, Menorca is probably not the right choice. Come here for peace and quiet, fantastic beaches, wonderful scenery and a welcoming family atmosphere.

Weather and Climate in Menorca

2006-05-14T14:02:00.000Z

Menorca has a truly Mediterranean climate, and averages 315 days of sunshine a year. The average summer high temperature is around 30C, although this often rises in the middle of August. The humidity is usually about 70-77% even in the winter. The winter is mild and often sunny, but the high humidity and strong winds that come down through France can make it feel rather cold and damp.

The 'season' is from 1st May to 31st of October, and normally the summer is hot and dry. The wettest months are from October to March.

The island is sometime called the 'windy isle' as there are no less than eight distinct winds each given a different name by the locals. Of these the north wind or tramontana is the most prevalent, blowing some 150 days a year, and always brings with it changeable weather.

easyJet welcomes the New Year with massive expansion

2006-04-30T12:28:00.000Z

easyJet, Europe's leading low-fares airline, today announced the addition of 14 new routes across its European network and that the airline will be converting three of its bases to solely Airbus operations.

The new routes reflect the airline's commitment to expand from its bases by using the 'join the dots' approach, connecting popular currently-served cities to ensure passengers have easy access to the most attractive destinations. In particular, the airline recognises the potential for growth in the North West of England and Italy in 2006.

easyJet also announced it is converting three of its UK regional bases - Edinburgh, Glasgow and Liverpool - to solely Airbus operations, replacing the current fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft with brand new Airbus 319s this summer. This move reflects easyJet's commitment to future investment and expansion.

Andrew Harrison, easyJet Chief Executive said:

'Some 35 million Europeans will take advantage of easyJet's unique combination of the lowest fares to the best-located airports this year; in fact, no other airline saves their passengers time and money on the same scale as easyJet.'

'14 new routes for the coming summer season is just the beginning of our plans for expansion during 2006, which will be an exciting year for easyJet - look out for announcements about more new routes to more destinations over the coming months.'

Bridge order for Outokumpu in Spain

2006-04-07T10:22:00.000Z

The worlds first overpass bridge to be made entirely from stainless steel is to be built in Spain, using material from Outokumpu Stainless. The bridge is to be built in the area of Cala Galdana, one of the most popular beaches on the Mediterranean island of Menorca. It will be 55 metres long and 13 metres wide. The bridges load-bearing construction will be manufactured entirely of stainless steel, namely high-strength duplex steel grade (2205), whilst the actual roadway will be made of concrete. The new bridge will replace an old concrete bridge, which has been eroded by environmental and weather conditions. 'The local environment is highly corrosive. The bridge is exposed to a combination of wind and seawater and the atmospheric humidity is also very high during most of the year. In view of this, the decision to focus exclusively on stainless steel offers considerable advantages. But aesthetic values have also played a part in the materials selection process,' says Anders Finnas, Manager Technical Marketing at Outokumpu Stainless Hot Rolled Plate. Outokumpu Stainless will deliver around 1000 bridge components, which after being plasma-cut to the proper size and shape will undergo edge preparation for welding. The designer for the bridge is Juan Antonio Sobrino from Pedalta Engeering, constructor is Ferrovial-Agroman and the fabricator is Ascamon. The work will begin in October 2004 and will be finished by spring 2005.

Beaches to visit in Menorca

2006-03-09T15:58:00.000Z

Minorca has a variety of beaches and resorts. Fornells, an attractive fishing village on the north coast, is on a spectacular bay ideal for windsurfing and watersports. Close by is the beach Cala Tirant. Cala Galdana is one of the most popular beaches, set in a horseshoe bay, while Santo Tomas with its stretch of golden sand is a small resort favoured by families and honeymoon couples. Son Bou is one of the longest sandy beaches on the island, backing on to open countryside and unspoilt by development, although there are a few shops, bars, restaurants and a discotheque nearby. Binebeca and Binisafua on the southwest coast were Minorca's first resort centres, now mainly residential areas filled with private villas fronting numerous sandy bays.

Minorca - What's in a Name?

2006-03-09T15:51:00.001Z

Minorca comes from the Latin 'Balearis Minor' (Minor Island) with its sister island Majorca known as 'Balearis Major'. It took its name from being smaller than the nearby island of Majorca.

It was originally called Nura by the Phoenicians in honouring their God Baal, meaning the "island of fire" and is now known simply as Minorca, although in Spanish, Catalan and increasingly in English it is known as Menorca.

Mahon - The Capital of Menorca

2006-03-09T15:44:00.000Z

Mahon, or Mao as it is known, has been the capital of Menorca, since the British moved it from Ciutadella in 1721. The reason being the harbor at 5 km long, over 1 km at its widest point, and 15-30m deep it is one of the largest natural harbours in the world. This coupled with its location in the Mediterranean, has made it a strategic stronghold for many nations throughout history.
The port is relaxing by day and buzzing by night. The bars and restaurants along the portside come alive at night it is easy to spend many hours down in the port, watching the ships, admiring the view, enjoying the hospitality of the restaurants, or just sat taking in the atmosphere.
The town itself has plenty to offer. Most of the shopping is along pedestrianised streets with wonderful cake shops, swish boutiques, leather, pottery and fresh fish and food in the markets.

Eating out in Menorca

2006-03-09T15:39:00.000Z

One of the great pleasures of travelling is the opportunity to try out the local food. Cookery is an important part of culture everywhere and something we can all enjoy for ourselves.
Many restaurants are helpful in translating the menu. However it is useful to know that most restaurants provide an economical set meal at midday - known as a Menu del Dia - a similar alternative - Menu del Noche - often appearing in the evenings. If you want to see the full menu then you should ask for 'La Carta'.
For a snack why not try Bocadillos, fresh crusty filled bread rolls that are available in most bars. As well as the familiar ham or cheese, try them with a fresh hot omelette - Tortilla, with the salami like Salchichon, or the excellent island-made spreading sausage - sobrasada served hot or cold, it is made with sweet paprika which gives it its characteristic orange colour. You may be asked if you want your roll 'con tomate' as a healthy alternative to butter, a whole ripe tomato is squeezed over the inside of the roll before filling.
Tapas are also to be found in most bars. They are a wide selection of typical dishes usually displayed along the top of the bar itself. They are served in small portions and can be eaten as an appetiser. Or you can choose a selection of several to make up a meal. Some of the most popular are: albondigas - meatballs, higado - liver and garlic, rinones al jerez- kidneys in sherry, calamares a la romana - fried squid rings in batter, carne con salsa - meat in a rich gravy, and of course tortilla, the Spanish omelette in numerous varieties.

Getting around in Menorca

2006-03-09T12:56:00.000Z

There is a bus service on the island, details of which you will be able to pick up from bus stations, shops or perhaps your hotel or apartment complex which will prove useful for short hops around the island but can be a lengthy trip if you plan travelling further.
The best way to get around the island is certainly hiring a car as you can really please yourself where to go and when. The island is easy to navigate as its fairly compact and once you get used to driving on the 'wrong' side of the road you'll find it quite easy. Hiring a car can cut down on excursion costs quite significantly and what is more you can easily beat the crowds by arriving at the excursion points at different times.
Taxis are easy to get and not badly priced and an easy way to get around resorts but perhaps not for longer journeys as they could prove pricey.

Menorca

2006-03-09T12:35:00.000Z

Despite its popularity as a holiday Mecca, the Balearic island of Menorca remains one of the loveliest, most unspoilt islands in the Mediterranean. The local population support the control of resort development and the woodlands and fields of its hilly rural interior remain largely untouched. This is the result of a thriving local industry that is less dependent on tourism for its survival than the other islands are.

Menorca is only nine miles (15km) wide and about 32 miles (52km) long, and boasts stretches of varied beaches, from silver-sanded gently curving bays to rocky inlets. Aside from beaches and resorts the island also has plenty of interest for history buffs and culture vultures, with several attractions to experience, including a world famous pipe organ and several mysterious prehistoric archaeological sites related to the second millennium BC Talayot culture.

The more recent history of the island is a saga of British, French and Spanish attempts at control and colonisation, each of which have left their influence on the local culture and architecture.

Excursions from Cala Galdana

2006-03-09T12:21:00.000Z

Water parks at Cala'n Bosch and Cala'n Forcat are well worth a visit and are half-price in the afternoon.
Endless secluded bays and pretty villages...try the whitewashed fishing village, Binibeca.
Ciutadella - the former capital is perfect for exploring, with its well preserved nooks and crannies, forged from the middle ages upwards. The narrow streets and harbour are a delight but navigating the one-way system takes patience and a good map.
Mahon - has a British influence, but we're talking ancient Brits rather than today's tan-seeking tourists. Narrow streets lined with lots of traditional little shops wind their way to the port which is temporary harbour to large cruise liners, ferries and yachts.
One of the world's largest Lladro shops off the main island road also provides a swimming pool and superb play area for younger children plus a cafeteria. Well worth a visit.
One recommended evening out is to see the display of horsemanship at the arena near Cala Galdana.
One 9-hole golf course.

Cala Galdana - The beaches

2006-03-09T12:13:00.000Z

Cala Galdana's beach is a broad, deep, gently shelving beach of fine, light sand and clear waters backed by shady pine trees. Access to the beach is via a wooden bridge or steps. A second, even more picturesque beach is a 30-min walk away at Cala Mitjana.
It is the focal point for the main central area of the resort so is close enough to the bars, shops and restaurants for when you've just had too much of relaxing. If you really are feeling lazy there is a small shop and snack bar on the beach itself where you can purchase drinks and snacks or a postcard to write.
The beach can get very busy at weekends with locals wanting to enjoy their beach so it's worth getting a spot early on.

Cala Galdana - Who it Appeals to

2006-03-09T11:53:00.000Z

Cala Galdana is generally not a place easily negotiated by those with mobility difficulties as although the main area is fairly flat, to appreciate the resort fully you will need to be pretty mobile.

This is a great resort for those who are fans of hiking, mountain biking and water sports as there is plenty to do, also for fans of fishing you can easily hire a boat or take an organised trip, a must for early risers as the sunrises in this resort are simply spectacular, framed by the cliffs surrounding the sheltered bay.

Families are well catered for with the resorts wonderful sandy beach and wide variety of apartments or hotels to choose from. As with the majority of Minorcan resorts, Cala Galdana is certainly not a rowdy resort appealing to the youth market but has a variety of entertainment in the hotels which anyone can pop along to or in the main square where there are bands and singers every night.

There is also a good range of activities such as mini golf in resort as well as the usual table tennis, pool table activity in the bars!

It's a great couples destination too, especially to view the amazing sunsets from the beach or one of the hillside bars over a few glasses of sangria.

Cala Galdana - An Overview

2006-03-09T11:49:00.000Z

A purpose-built resort surrounded by dramatic scenery of limestone cliffs, pine-clad hills and crystal-clear waters. The main drag runs for around half a mile along the valley, roughly following the river, and it is here that much of the accommodation as well as the main commercial centre is located.

Accommodation continues up the hillside for around 600 yds (although the winding road makes it seem farther) and there is a secondary residential area with no commercial centre over Galdana Bridge on the S side of the river. Although this area overlooks the beach, the steep incline has forced a lot of development away from the beach itself. The whole area is becoming increasingly protected to preserve its natural beauty with only a couple of monstrosities marring the landscape.

The views across the bay are simply stunning and well worth the walk up the surrounding cliffs (a moderate walk with steps and path so fairly easy for all) to appreciate the beauty of this comparatively unspoilt resort.