Villa de las Palmas

The Balearic island of Menorca is the quieter, unspoilt version of its big sisters Majorca and Ibiza. While it is partly known for its traditional summer fiestas, which take place in different towns around the island all summer long (with origins dating back to the 14th century!) it’s really the place for those who enjoy a calmer, slower pace of life. Aside from its traditional fiestas, Menorca is better visited for its white-sand bays such as Pregonda and Cala Macarella, clear, turquoise water and more gentle activities like walking, cycling or horse-riding. With a coastline punctuated by beautiful coves and a landscape awarded the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, strewn with ancient stone monuments and an estimated 70,000km of dry-stone walls, this is an island for the nature lovers, and anyone looking for a little rest and relaxation. Cala Llonga is one of the most exclusive areas in Menorca, overlooking the second deepest natural harbour in the world. It has a small supermarket, but many more amenities can be found in the island’s capital town of Mahon, just a 10 minute drive away. Mahon makes for a beautiful day of strolling, with many narrow pedestrianised streets and historical sites to visit, as well as innumerable bars, cafes and restaurants. Sa Mesquida, a beautiful cove offering safe shallow bathing and wide, sandy beach is very nearby, as is the Natural Park of S’Albufera des Grau and its unspoilt fishing village of Es Grau, with the option to stroll the 4km way-marked bridle path to it.