MENORCA - BALEARIC ISLANDS

Menorca is the most picturesque and tranquil of the Balearic Islands. The Menorcan coastline is glorious with spectacular clear blue sea, silver-sanded curving bays and picture postcard rocky inlets with pine tree settings. Undoubtedly the island’s biggest attraction, there are over 100 beaches to choose from. Some of the most popular and developed beaches are found on the southern coastline. While in the north, you’re more likely to stumble across picturesque horseshoe bays, coastal views and rugged, beautiful scenery.

Great for exploring, the island offers an impressive green and hilly rural interior remaining largely untouched by tourism with picturesque resorts and fishing villages around the coast. In Mahon, Menorca’s pretty harbour side capital, you can see the famous 18th-Century Xoriguer Gin Distillery and its enormous copper stills in action before sampling the 100 different types of gin on offer.

The old city of Ciutadella on the Western point of the island is the former capital of the island is known for its medieval charm. Ciutadella is considered a "Guardian of Traditions", and has superb examples of local architecture, narrow streets to explore, markets and restaurants. The beautiful harbour lies on a deep bay and is a favourite place to sample locally caught fresh fish with a glass of wine.  The ferry port here is one of the smallest commercial ports in Europe but still offers a great ferry service from and to Barcelona which takes just 3.45 hours each way.

Arguably the best buy in Menorca is leather goods - from footwear, in particular locally manufactured sandals known as 'Abarcas', to bags and jackets. Jewellery is a Menorcan speciality, alongside locally produced pottery and cheeses made in the Quesos Coinga factory. Small, local markets sell traditional arts and crafts, as well as fresh produce. All in all, the attractive villages, city architecture, life and culture as well as mysterious prehistoric sites all combine to make Menorca simply sparkle with calm and charm.