While one may expect the cuisine waiting to be experienced on Menorca holidays to be typically your standard Spanish fare, it can come as a surprise to visitors that the food on the island is actually very different from that found on the Spanish mainland, or even the islands nearby. To be sure, there are still the standard Spanish dishes, such as paella, morçon and spicy sausages, but the varieties you find on Menorca are distinctly unique.

A Melting Pot Of Flavours Cooked Throughout the Centuries

One of the components that distinguishes Menorcan cuisine is the prevalence of dairy – such as milk, butter and cheese. It is a legacy of the British who occupied the island previously, bringing in the cattle that are a large part of its agricultural scene to this day. These same people are to thank for the distinctive Xoriguer gin, first distilled in Maó for British sailors.

A product of the various people and cultures that have, at one time or the other, stayed on the island, the food is a distinct blend of influences, covering medieval cuisine, both Islamic and Catalan, to the Romans, Arabs to the French and British, and these days, even Asian. The presence of a rich agricultural sector that produces the freshest meats, vegetables and other ingredients in the finest dishes, as well as the sea providing the rich marine bounty for the famous seafood dishes, are two factors to thank for the wonderful flavours and satisfying meals one finds on Menorca holidays.

So, where exactly on this wonderful island can you sample these culinary treasures? Here are just a few suggestions to start you off – the rest is up to you!

Café Balear. One of the names often recommended by past visitors is Cafe Balear in Ciutadella and Cap d’Artrux. It is known for its fabulous traditional paella and its seafood dishes – particularly lobster, monkfish and prawn casserole, and mixed fried rockfish. Their seafood is all freshly caught from their own boats and cooked to perfection. While the prices are a little on the high side, they are definitely well worth it.

La Minerva. Another restaurant that showcases the bounty of the sea surrounding Menorca, this favourite of visitors on Menorca holidays is considered the finest restaurant in Mahon. Exquisite, flavour-filled seafood dishes feature heavily on the menu – such as the fish baked with slices of garlic in an oil or vinegar sauce, served with an aromatic ratatouille.

Menorca holidays would not be complete without an authentic taste of the famed caldereta de llagosta – the renowned spiny lobster stew that the island is famous for. Arguably, your best bet for this is to head to Fornells, and follow the fishermen to find where the best hole-in-the wall places are. Of course, many restaurants do serve great versions of this as well, but this is much more fun!

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great villas for your Menorca holidays. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

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On Menorca, villas are located all over this fascinating island, meaning you could choose to stay in any part of it. However, no matter where you stay, you should definitely try to spend a bit of time getting out and exploring the beautiful natural surroundings.

You’ll have plenty of time to relax on the pristine beaches and swim in the warm azure sea during your stay in Menorca. However, if you want to see the real Menorca, you should put on some good walking shoes and go exploring. There are many beautiful towns and villages both inland and along the coast, so simply head out and see what you can discover.

Explore the Coast

Coastal walks in Menorca combine the best of both worlds because you get to explore the wild, rugged beauty of the island whilst still being near the ocean, so you’re never far away when you want to cool off in the water. The north coast of the island is particularly beautiful, and if you stay in one of the Menorca villas in this area then you will be perfectly situated to explore places such as Punta Nati, Cala Morell and Cala Carbo. There are both easy walks and more difficult walks in this region, so you should work out what level suits you and then find a good trail to explore.

The Beautiful South

People often say that the south of the island is less dramatic than the north, but there are still some excellent walks to be enjoyed when you stay in one of the Menorca villas located in the region. There are many secret coves to discover, and you can also visit beautiful places such as Son Bou, Cala en Turqueta, Son Xoriguer and Binigaus, to name a few.

Some Well-Known Walks

There are a number of well-known walks that many people decide to go on when they stay in Menorca. Villas located across the island are often situated near to good walking areas, but the two following suggestions are some of the best.

Punta Nati to Cala Morell – this walk is about eight kilometres in length and should take about four hours for the average walker. It goes right along the coast, where you will enjoy a spectacular rocky landscape, and you can even stop off to visit the prehistoric caves in Cala Morell when you arrive at this tiny village.

Ets Alocs to Mount Mala – this walk is six kilometres and will take about three hours to complete. It is a coastline walk and highlights include the beach at Cala Pilar and the interesting village of Ferreries.

Get More from Menorca

When you stay in Menorca, villas are found throughout the island so you should be able to base yourself somewhere with good walks in the vicinity. It really is the best way to see the ‘real’ Menorca and there is so much to discover on foot.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great accommodation for your holiday in Menorca villas . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

<span style=”color: #800000;”>This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the <a href=”http://www.leadgenerators.co.uk/”>smartest online marketing agency in London</a>, and the proud host a series of <a href=”http://www.leadgenerators.co.uk/seminars.html”>internet marketing training</a> seminars.</span>

<span style=”color: #800000;”>Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!</span>

Mahón, which is also known as Maó, is one of the most important settlements on the island of Menorca. If you go for a holiday in Menorca, villas located in or near Mahón are often highly desirable, allowing you to stay in a city steeped in history and culture with many exciting things to see and do.

Brief Overview

In Menorca, villas with access to Mahón are not hard to find. When you book one, you will find yourself near a city of about 30,000 people, making it quite a small settlement. However, it is this small size that lends it its unique charm, and if it was any larger it would not have the same atmosphere. It also has a very interesting history, having been under the ownership of Moors, Spanish and British throughout the centuries.

Queso de Mahón

One of the things for which Mahón is most well known is its cheese, known as Queso de Mahón, or ‘Mahón Cheese’. This is popular all over the island, so whether you stay in Menorca villas in Mahón or anywhere else you will probably get a chance to try it. The cheese has a texture ranging from soft to hard, and is slightly salty due to the sea salt present in the grass eaten by the cows. It is quite sharp to the taste, very aromatic and delicious, so make sure you try it.

The Port

The port area of Mahón is one of the most interesting places to visit during your time here. Here you will find the remains of Castle of Sant Felip and the Fortress of Isabella II on La Mola, which was used as a prison during the Franco dictatorship. You could also take out a trip to the island of Llatzeret, which was used as a hospital for victims of cholera in the past, and you may want to check out Rei Island with its excellent Christian basilica.

Mare de Deu de Gràcia Festival

The highlight of the year in Mahón is this festival, so if you are around in September then make sure you check it out. It is a very lively affair in which horses are a predominant feature. You’ll be able to see the costumed riders performing on their horses and there are also lots of horse-related games – including jousting and galloping with arms locked together. The festival takes place to mark the end of summer, so if you are looking to book any Menorca villas at this time make sure you take a trip to Mahón.

Discover Mahón

Mahón is one of the best places to visit when you are considering booking a holiday in one of the many excellent Menorca villas on offer. With so much to see and do this should definitely be on your list of places to visit when you head to the Balearics.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great accommodation for your holiday in Menorca villas . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

The Balearics are steeped in history, and it is therefore not surprising that there are many interesting historical monuments and landmarks of interest to discover during your stay in Menorca. Villas located anywhere across the island will place you nearby to something of interest, but perhaps for the most interesting monuments and landmarks you should visit some of the larger towns and cities. Here are some of the best that you may want to visit during your time in Menorca.

Placa Esplanada

This is the biggest square in the city of Mahón and is an absolute delight to visit. Menorca villas situated not far from this city will provide you with easy access to many interesting landmarks, but this is one of the best. Here you will find tall trees providing cool shade during the day, attractive flower beds, interesting architecture, ice cream sellers, bars, cafés and more. There is even a market twice a week, and it is a popular meeting place for locals.

Castell de Sant Nicolau

This is located in Ciutadella, another great place to stay in Menorca. Villas near here will have you situated in the vicinity of this 17th century castle that is a very grand building, wonderful to look at even from the outside. It was originally built as a watchtower to protect the harbour, and it still has a working drawbridge. There are some great views to be enjoyed of the ocean, and exhibitions are held in the castle during the year.

Cales Coves

This is located seven miles west of Mahón so you may want to drive or catch a bus here. It is one of the most famous tourist sights on the island, and consists of a prehistoric cave system. The best way to see it is actually from the sea, where you will be able to spot the caves and chambers. The caves have been used for both burial chambers and pagan rituals over the centuries.

Ciutadella Cathedral

This is one of the most important landmarks of Ciutadella, so if you stay in Menorca, villas near to this city will ensure you are ideally located to enjoy it. Built in the 13th century, it was actually constructed on top of a mosque. It is built in the Catalan Gothic style, but interestingly it still features a minaret of the old mosque.

Discover Menorca

When you book a trip to Menorca, villas are to be found across the island, and if you book a villa within reach of a city like Mahón or Ciutadella then you will be able to enjoy many of the most important monuments and landmarks of the island.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great accommodation for your holiday in Menorca villas . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

<span style=”color: #800000;”>This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the <a href=”http://www.leadgenerators.co.uk/”>smartest online marketing agency in London</a>, and the proud host a series of <a href=”http://www.leadgenerators.co.uk/seminars.html”>internet marketing training</a> seminars.</span>

<span style=”color: #800000;”>Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!</span>

Menorca holidays are perfect for anyone who enjoys a relaxing game of golf on a high-quality course. The Son Parc Golf Course welcomes individuals or groups who wish to play on their beautiful, scenic course and offers attractive discounts on daily/weekly visitors’ fees.

Son Parc golf

The 18-hole Son Parc Golf Course is ideal for experienced golfers and novices alike and was designed by Dave Thomas Golf Ltd. Dave Thomas is a well-known former competitor of the Ryder Cup and has designed many first-rate, international golf courses. For example, he designed the highly regarded Belfry and San Roque on the Costa del Sol, mainland Spain. Playing this challenging course is also an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outstanding natural beauty of the surrounding countryside and the wonderful views of Monte Toro.

Green hills and birds

The fertile green hills around the course are covered by ancient woods of oak, pine and wild olives, and the splendid course also includes a protected wet zone – home to a staggering 220 species of bird and 1,000 species of plants. These important natural wetlands provide nesting sites for aquatic birds and birds of prey – and there is even a flock of colourful peacocks living near to the third green. Playing a round of golf during Menorca holidays is a unique opportunity to get close to nature and view the abundant wildlife that inhabits the ponds, lagoons, marshes and dunes.

Getting competitive
The Club de Golf Son Parc is an active golfing institution that organises many competitions throughout the year for members, visitors and high-profile professionals. Most competitions are open to everyone with a valid handicap, and in addition to regular weekend competitions, there are two popular week-long golf events in May and October.
The May Golf Week begins with the Menorca Men’s Open Championship followed by events for teams and individuals. The well-attended highlight of the week is the Ronnie Bremner Competition (Individual Stableford). The October Golf Week is held after the Under-16 Junior Competition and also includes plenty of opportunities for individuals and teams to show what they can do.
Family or group holidays
These events are usually accompanied by excellent weather conditions – dry, warm sunny days that are not too hot. This makes these special events equally attractive to keen golfers and their family and friends, who often arrange group Menorca holidays at these times. It really is the perfect way to have a family or group holiday where everyone is happy – with golf events and the sunny beaches within easy walking distance of one another!
The whole island of Menorca has been officially designated a National Park and carefully protected from even a whisper of mass tourism. This means that Menorca holidays have much to offer those of us who enjoy good weather, first-class accommodation, fabulous local cuisine, and, above all, a first-rate golf course!

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great accommodation for your Menorca holidays . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

This article was provided by LeadGenerators, the smartest online marketing agency in London, and the proud host a series of internet marketing training seminars.

Thank you for visiting our article directory! Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

If you’re what is commonly known today as a ‘foodie’, then you’re in for a real treat if you’re off on Menorca holidays. After all, there is no easier way to absorb a destination’s culture than by eating it up, and savouring every yummy bite!

What is there to eat on Menorca holidays? Plenty! No one does feasts and festival food like the Spanish, and this little island is definitely that! Your visit to Menorca will comprise fun-filled days at the beach with music, dancing, and wonderful Spanish-inspired cuisine.

Spanish Fiesta!

The unique flavours of Menorcan cooking are predominantly Spanish, but also a result of the different cultures brought by the people who have made the island their home over the centuries: the Moors, the Catalans, the French, the English and many others. Along with the abundant seafood, Menorca also has rich soil perfect for agriculture, so fresh vegetables and fruit are plentiful, while the introduction of Friesian cattle in the area has secured the supply of meat and cheese. You can definitely look forward to a diverse variety dishes on your Menorca holidays.

Seafood.

Surrounded as it is by crystal blue waters, and home to a number of coastal towns, seafood will play a big part in your diet on Menorca holidays. Imagine fresh prawns, mussels, lobsters, squid, mullet, sole, sea bass and more freshly caught the same day, then cooked right in front of you!

One of the prime seafood specialties you shouldn’t miss on your Menorca holidays is the caldereta de llagosta – a lobster stew which originated from fishermen who prepared it on their boats. The fishing town of Fornells, with its excellent lobster and other seafood, is famous for this dish– it is reported that King Juan Carlos comes here especially for it.

Paella

Menorca holidays just aren’t complete without this rice dish. With the fabulously fresh seafood, meat, vegetables and spices on the island, other versions of this dish pale in comparison.

Aubergines

Another mainstay of Menorcan cuisine are aubergines (eggplants) – and you will most likely find them in nearly every meal. Variations include: roast eggplant, relleno (aubergines cored and stuffed with meat and cheese), imam bayaldi (a Moorish contribution of eggplant stuffed with onions, garlic, tomato and parsley) as well as a lovely roasted then baked eggplant with mozzarella, parmesan and tomato sauce.

Another must-try specialty to try on Menorca holidays are the many different sausages, including sobresada, cuixa and camot. Large, rich and very tasty with about 99% meat and only spices added, these sausages are often eaten with delicious bread straight from the oven.

Dairy

Menorca is famous for its Mahon cheese, which is extremely popular in Europe. Contrary to its name, it is manufactured across the island (almost all the towns have a cheese industry) to strict standards, so you can find it almost anywhere on your Menorca holidays. Mercadal cheese, a milder, creamier variant, is also popular. Ice cream, notably from Alaior, is another favourite, with its smooth creamy taste.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great villa accommodation for your Menorca holidays . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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There are people who can spend their entire Menorca holidays without leaving the resort of Son Bou or one of the other beach paradise hideaways. However, if you get the urge to explore the island a little further, you’ll definitely be glad you did.

Many visitors who get the itch to venture out around the rest of the island are often surprised and amazed at what it has to offer in terms of history, culture, arts and even entertainment. Mahon and Ciutadella are usually on the top of everyone’s list, but if you’d like to get to know the island more intimately, there are many other towns waiting to be discovered.

So, where to begin this discovery of Menorca? Holidays are all about being free, taking it easy and going with the flow, so it’s all up to you, but here are a few suggestions on where to start.

Alaior. Founded in 1304 by King James II of Mallorca, this small yet important town definitely has its charm, with whitewashed buildings lining its narrow streets. Known for its thriving shoe industry, this town is brisk and somewhat a bit businesslike, though still relaxed. Check out the footwear– you may find yourself buying a few shoe-shaped souvenirs of your Menorca holidays!

Sant Luis is a small yet charming town on the southern tip of the island, established by the French in the 18th century, and built around a church dedicated to the king of France (hence the name). It has some marvellously secluded beaches, such as those in the resort of Punta Prima, Cala Alacaufar and Cala d’es Rafalet.

Torret. It’s not quite a tourist town, but visitors on Menorca holidays who are lucky enough to discover this little gem can leisurely explore the quaint streets of whitewashed houses and relax and enjoy the local cuisine at the town’s excellent restaurant. Don’t expect any retail therapy here though!

Es Castell. Situated on the eastern coast of the island in its time this town was strategic military location due to the two harbours– Cala Corb and Cala Fonts. Visits to its museums, such as the Military Museum of Menorca, Fort Marlborough and Plaza Explanada will be an enlightening historical addition to your Menorca holidays.

Es Mercadal. At the base of El Toro, Menorca’s highest point (357 metres), you will find this lovely town. It is extremely authentic and has some wonderful bars and restaurants. The nearest beach is the delightful Cala Galdana

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great villa accommodation for your Menorca holidays . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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For many visitors on Menorca holidays, it is a given that the primary attraction is the beach. And for good reason: while there are not as many of them on the island compared to nearby Mallorca and Ibiza, the tranquil atmosphere, secluded coves, fewer crowds and rustic charm compared to those larger islands make it a favourite for beach-lovers on a Spanish getaway.

Still, there is definitely more to Menorca holidays than just sunning yourself at the beach. In fact, there are so many other places to visit it would be quite a shame to not explore the rest of the island. But if you’re one of those people who can’t stay away from the beach, don’t worry– you’ll never be far from it even when exploring these great sights!

Mahon

Es Freginal Park, in the heart of Mahon, is a refreshing touch of green where you can go to take a break from the beach on your Menorca holidays. Not only is it a peaceful, relaxing place to enjoy nature, it is also the site of many concerts –some featuring world-class musicians such as those performing in the annual Jazz Festival.

You’re never really far from the Mediterranean on your Menorca holidays. The long waterfront of Mahon Harbour offers many interesting sights and photographic opportunities for those who are looking for them. Buildings with great architectural detail, old Balearic fishing vessels and the nearby Xoriguer Gin Distillery (makers of the famous Menorca gin) are just a few of the things you will find your explorations of Mahon.

Ciutadella

A visit to Ciutadella is further proof that Menorca holidays offer more than just lazy days in the sun. Formerly the commercial capital of Menorca, the historical and cultural treasures (not to mention the vibrant nightlife) often come as a surprise to many visitors.

Ciutadella Cathedral in the Placa de la Catedral, is an extraordinary structure dating back to the 13th century. It is often listed as among the must-see sights for tourists on Menorca holidays and for good reason– the impressive architecture, complete with stone carvings of mythical creatures, and overall historical ambience of this church is definitely nothing like just another day at the beach!

Fornells

This is a quaint fishing village off Fornells Bay with a natural wharf about the size as the port of Mahon. With fresh seafood abundant in the area, a relaxing and charming setting, and friendly villagers ready with their hospitality, Fornells is popular with those looking for an authentic gastronomic adventure to cap off their Menorca holidays.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great villa accommodation for your Menorca holidays . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

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A long, long time ago, the concepts of Menorca holidays were a little different. Unlike modern-day breaks, which are all about the sun, sea and sand, many families came here simply for the fishing!

A different coloured ocean

In the mid-1960s, just before the real dawn of large-scale foreign holidays, many families’ only experience of the sea was the rather grey-green and forbidding Channel, North Sea or Atlantic.
Most families that could afford holidays in the 1950s went to traditional UK resorts. As a result, an entire generation of British children grew up with the view of the sea as being freezing cold and unwelcoming – though that didn’t stop them doing their best to try and fish it with their toy rods and little nets!

Then new destinations arose – including Menorca. Holidays there were a real eye-opener for youngsters of the time for many reasons and, if they arrived there at night, their first sight of the Mediterranean the next morning often left them speechless. More than one child would have been moved to gasp, “but the sea’s a different colour”! The vivid blue of the Mediterranean is as far removed from the UK’s murky winter shores as one could imagine.

Menorca and the rod/net

It didn’t take those same children very long to discover a few other things about Menorca: the fabulous beaches with warm waters; adventure-filled rocky coves; the amazingly friendly people; and the ports, harbours and jetties where, incredibly, you could actually see large fish just swimming lazily around. A new holiday pastime was discovered – fishing! It became a common sight to see the children set off in the early morning with their rods and nets, not returning until sunset. It is these same children, now grown up with their own families, who return year after year to Menorca. Holidays for families are well-catered for and, although fishing may not be the popular pastime it once was, there is still plenty for the young ones to do.

The legacy

Menorca still has the charm of yesterday and it is a relatively quiet and peaceful island ideal for families and more discerning travellers. There are some beautiful resorts here. The north and west coasts (south of Ciutadella) have some of the quieter and more rustic resorts such as Santandria and Cala Blanca; while the south coast has larger resorts with a more international flavour (such as Santa Galdana), but even these have been developed sympathetically in line with the natural environment.

While the island has certainly changed since the 1950s, its charm has remained. On Menorca, holidays are big business and tourism is now its largest industry, but the best compliment its visitors can pay it is in the fact that they return year after year to, often, the same villas and hotels.

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great accommodation for your holiday in Menorca villas . Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

Thank you for visiting Travel Articles Directory. Feel free to use any of our travel writing articles for your own website, on the condition that you also take the link we have included in the text. Check back for more travel writing soon; we’re uploading more original travel articles all the time!

This article was provided by LeadGenerators – the smartest SEO agency in London, and the proud host of a series of Internet Marketing training seminars and Social Media breakfasts.