|
Menorca, with a
population of 62,000, is a bright and radiant island bathed by the
magnificent Mediterranean sun, which reflects the dazzling whiteness
of the whitewashed houses. The green countryside, the blue sea and
sky, and the white of the buildings are the three main colours that
go to form the island of Menorca.
A visit to the
island is like arriving at a promised land, where everything is
simple and nice, as are its inhabitants. Strange as it may seem,
Menorca is basically an unknown island in terms of modern tourism.
Its rocky and ever-changing coastline is made up of magnificent
beaches and coves, some of which are being developed, and others
which are secluded and quiet, where man has yet to reach.
Thanks to the shape
of the island, which is only 47 km long and between 10 and 19 wide,
it has a coastline of some 200 km. As a result, the entire island
is really all coast. The sea is a constant factor in the life of
Menorca, and its numerous coves and natural harbours are ideal for
the practice of all kinds of water sports. Menorca presents a fairly
level landscape, its highest point being Mount Toro, on the top
of which stands the shrine of the island's patron saint. The views
from here are quite breathtaking.
The shortest distance
from the mainland by sea is via Barcelona, although there is also
a ferry service from Palma. In addition, there are regular flights
between Barcelona and Mahón (Maó) that take about
forty-five minutes, and also flights between Mahón and Palma.
The latter now has a new and modern airport that is specially designed
for handling heavy air traffic, both from mainland Spain and abroad.
Mahón (Maó)
The capital of
Menorca, with its population of about 22,000, has a picturesque
appearance that distinguishes it from all the other towns and villages.
Its layout and architecture are a combination of typical island
and English characteristics, seen mainly in the streets, where we
find houses without balconies, and around the port area, where the
houses have sash windows. On the north side of the port stands the
San Antonio Estate ("Golden Farm"), which, according to
legend, was the residence of Admiral Nelson and Lady Hamilton during
their stay on the island. Mahón has all the attractions of
a modern city, and all along its promenade one can find many of
the old, typical fishemen's taverns.
The port, which
stretches some 20 km along the coast, and has a width of almost
5 km, is the most sheltered and imposing on the entire Mediterranean.
This is the location of the island of El Rey, on which stand the
ruins of the old British Naval Hospital. Some of the other important
constructions to be found are the Church of Santa María la
Mayor, which has an enormous organ; the Churches of San Francisco
and El Carmen; and Mercadal House, which today serves as a museum.
Two kilometres outside Mahón is the prehistoric settlement
of Trepucó, which has impressive talayots and taulas. And
close-by are several beaches and coves including Cala Mesquida and
Cala Fons, the latter being near to Villacarlos.
Villacarlos (4,637
inhabitants)
Lying at the entrance
to the port of Mahón its architecture and appearance show
a clearly British influence.
Sant Lluis (2,200
inhabitants)
An inland village,
founded by the French in the 18C during their shortlived period
of domination.
Cala Alcaufar
A fine urban development
with a lovely beach.
Alaior (6,007 inhabitants)
Famous for the
manufacture of men's footwear. Close-by are the popular beaches
of San Bou and Cala's Porter.
Mercada (3,000
inhabitants)
Lying inland and
not far from Mount Toro, the highest point on the island. Nine kilometers
away is Es Migjorn, with the beach of Sant Tomas, and at a distance
of 10 km we find the beautiful Arenal den Castell beach.
Ferreries (3,076
inhabitants) Located in the centre of the island it has picturesque
red and white houses.
Cala Sant Galdana
This cove, not
far from Ferreries, offers the most beautiful scenery with rocks
and hundred-year-old pine trees.
Ciutadella (19,311
inhabitants)
A very traditional
small town with an interesting cathedral. Nearby is the naveta (prehistoric
tomb) of Els Tudons, the largest and best-preseved of its kind.
There are also the excellent beaches of Cala Santandria, Algañares,
Cala Blanca and Cala Blanes.
Fornells (150 inhabitants)
A typical fishing
village, surrounded by pine groves, with a large natural port. It
is a popular summer holiday resort.
Punta Prima
Has an excellent
beach with fine sands.
|
