Why go?

Also fondly known locally as Maó, Mahón sits on a ridge above the inlet that forms its famed harbour (the largest natural port in the Mediterranean) on one of the most unspoilt coastlines in Spain. The architecture of this laid-back town bares the stamp of its British occupation in the 18th century in four-storey Georgian townhouses and the locals’ penchant for pomade (local gin made in the London fashion with lemonade). Mahón’s good looks have remained intact after it was designated a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in 1993 and avoided the over-development which has blighted neighbouring Balearic islands of Mallorca and Ibiza. The enigmatic natural parks, hidden pine-fringed coves and low-key seaside dining take on a buzzing energy in July, but Maó is also popular in September, when the Nuestra Señora de Gracia (Our Lady of the Grace) festival and horse races ride into town.

What to do

Lace up your walking boots and discover birds of prey and rare flora and fauna living along the protected shores, on wetlands and in deep gorges. While the biggest beaches can be found on the south coast, it’s worth seeking out the smaller and quieter bays; the picturesque and deserted Cala Macarella is just a short walk from the popular Cala Santa Galdana. After a morning on the playa, move to Mahón’s mellow beat and stroll through the warren of alleyways, browsing the many small boutiques and cafés. Stop by the Museum of Menorca 00 34 971 350 955, museudemenorca.com set in a 17th-century monastery for an insight into the history of the island – take a walk around its beautifully preserved cloisters, too. Indulge in local delicacies at Mercado del Claustro del Carmen in the baroque lobby of the Carmen church before heading next door to the city’s bustling fish market, Mercat del Peix. Gin has been made in Menorca since the 18th century, when demand was rife during the British occupation. Take a tour of the nearby Xoriguer distillery xoriguer.co.uk where you can taste the distinctively aromatic local tipple – try the chamomile-based Hierbas de Menorca.

Where to stay

Housed in an elegantly converted salmon-pink 1700s mansion, a stone’s throw away from the central Plaça d’Espanya, Casa Alberti 00 34 686 393 569, hotelcasalberti.com oozes character. Snug yet stylish, boutique Jardí de Ses Bruixes 00 34 971 363 166, hotelsesbruixes.com makes for a peaceful stay with a subterranean spa. Bang in the heart of the marina, Port Mahón Hotel 00 34 971 362 600, sethotels.com is a popular choice and comes complete with colonial-style decor and a pool.

Where to eat and drink

While seafood and charcoal-grilled meats are king, cheese (made with the milk from Friesian cows) and paprika-spiked sausages play an important part in Menorcan cuisine, too. Prop up the bar at scarlet-walled bistro Ses Forquilles 00 34 971 352 711, sesforquilles.com and enjoy creative tapas plates with a couple of glasses of Balearic wines. Try the red tuna sashimi, montaditos (small sandwiches) and moreish tortilla with sobrassada (local sausage). No visit to Mahón would be complete without sampling the island’s emblematic dish, caldereta de langosta, or spiny lobster stew. S’Espigó 00 34 971 369 909, sespigo.com is a popular spot with locals, not only for this dish but because of its port-side location and pretty terrace overlooking the water. Bright Jágaro 00 34 971 362 390, jagaro.es offers competition in the lobster stakes, including the simple adaptation served with a fried egg and chips. Nestled on the seafront in the smaller harbour of Es Castell, Trébol restaurant 00 34 971 367 097, trebolmenorca.es showcases the very best seafood in the capital. From grilled sardines to langoustine and squid, make sure you round things off with a refreshing gin sorbet. For panoramic views and creative dishes, El Rais 00 34 971 362 345, sesforquilles.comis hard to better at sunset.

Time running out?

Take a sightseeing boat trip around the sparkling waters of Mahón Port for £11pp. yellowcatamarans.com

Travel Information

Travel Information

Currency is the euro. Time is 1 hour ahead of GMT. Flight time from the UK is around 2.5 hours.

Getting There

easyJet offers daily flights from London Gatwick to Menorca Airport. easyjet.com

Jet2 offers regular direct services from London Stansted to Menorca Airport. jet2.com

Resources

Menorca is the official tourist board website, and is packed with ideas to help you make the most of your visit. menorca.es