My sunrise kayaking excursion and beach breakfast were a perfect example of how Menorca balances the excitement and physicality of adventure with a sense of slowness—a balance captured in the island’s popular saying, poc a poc, meaning little by little. This equilibrium is best demonstrated in the island’s Biosphere Reserve status, awarded by UNESCO 30 years ago in recognition of Menorca’s balance between development and conservation.

In the Noble Footsteps of Knights

The previous afternoon, I spent a few glorious hours hiking along a rugged section of the coast, following the Camí de Cavalls, of ”the horse’s path”. This 185km path circumnavigates the whole island, and its name dates back to the 14th Century, when a royal edict required knights in Menorca to patrol the coastline on horseback, in order to defend the island.

Today, it can be completed on foot, or mountain bike, as well as on horseback. Climbing out of the town Cala Galdana, we quickly left the hubbub of the resort behind. We meandered from white, sandy beaches to viewpoints perched atop limestone cliffs, relishing the shade of the untamed woodland that covers much of the coast. Reaching Trebalúger, we scrambled down from the footpath to drop into the warm sea and splash the remaining distance to this wonderfully isolated beach.

Five Activities to Try in Menorca

Mountain biking
With its network of quiet rural lanes and tracks that wind through the rolling countryside, Menorca is a mountain biker’s paradise. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a gentle introduction to the sport, or an experienced rider looking to go full Red Bull Rampage, there’s a route to suit you. Camí de Cavalls 360 provides a selection of route options, coastal and inland, plus info on guiding and support.

Hiking
There’s a huge variety of hiking on the island, from short loops taking you to epic viewpoints, to the 185km Camí de Cavalls circular trail, recognised as GR223 in the European network of long distance footpaths. Take on one of the segments for a taster of this coastal route, or if you’re feeling ambitious, commit to completing the entire path, which dates back to the days when knights would patrol the edges of the island on horseback.

Horse-riding
Horses are an integral part of Menorcan culture, with the noble black-coated Menorcan horses being a recognised breed. Additionally, jaleos, where riders bring their horses to rear on their back legs in a sort of ‘dance’, are a prominent feature of the patron saint festivities that take place in all the towns and villages across the island. Trekking into the countryside on horseback is a fantastic way to experience the island and is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Kayaking
Heading out in a kayak offers an alternative vantage point from which to see Menorca’s beautiful coast. Paddle beneath the imposing cliffs, explore caves and natural archways that are otherwise inaccessible, and find your way to some of the remotest coves on the island. Spot the differences between the two coastlines—from the white expanses of fine sand beaches on the south coast to the red-gold cliffs and beaches of the north. If you’re seeking a real adventure, you can pick up a sea kayak and circumnavigate the whole island.

Visit Pedreres de s’Hostal quarry, Lithica
Limestone was extracted from these vast quarries by hand for hundreds of years, before mechanised means took over from the mid 1900s until the closure of the quarries in 1994. They’ve now been transformed into an impressive labyrinth of public gardens—a dense, lush haven for plants and herbs. Entering the mediaeval garden through a rough archway in the limestone wall feels like stepping into a secret world. Online reservation is recommended, lithica.es

Explore the Talayotic archaeological sites
Menorca’s rich pre- and ancient history dates back to 2,300 BC. The name Talayotic Menorca comes from the distinctive tower constructions found across the island. There are around 1,500 of these fascinating, well preserved sites, and the towers were recently included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The most extensive settlement is Torre d’en Galmés, while the small settlement of Trepucó boasts one of the largest taulas still standing.

Try the unique food and wine
Menorca achieved the European Region of Gastronomy Award in 2022. Looking at its rich culinary heritage it is easy to see why. Sa Cooperativa del Camp organises tours and tastings at local producers. You can sample Mahón-Menorca Denomination of Origin cheese fresh from a dairy farm, or watch a demonstration of how to make mayonnaise, undoubtedly Menorca’s most famous product, and a strangely fascinating process to see ‘live’. The island is home to several vineyards producing high quality local wines, including Binifadet, where they also serve delicious food in a beautiful restaurant.

Go Stargazing
In addition to being a Biosphere Reserve, Menorca’s protected natural areas and exceptionally clear skies have also earned it Starlight Reserve status. Polaris Menorca runs guided night hikes and stargazing workshops for those who want to experience Menorca under a night sky. Keep an eye out for their planispheres (star wheels) which are mounted across the island, including one at Torre d’en Galmés.

Know how

Our trip
Anna’s trip was supported by Turisme de Menorca who provide adventure inspiration, information and booking links on their website.

Getting there
Jet2 operate direct flights to Menorca from Birmingham, Manchester and London Stansted in the summer. EasyJet and British Airways fly there multiple times a day from London Gatwick.