WHEN it comes to Spanish islands, trying to avoid the crowds can be near impossible.
But Menorca in the Balearics has far fewer tourists than some of it’s neighbours, and is a great alternative according to a TUI travel agent who has been in the biz for over 25 years.
Each year, Menorca welcomes around 1.5million tourists – a fraction of Ibiza that sees up to 4million visitors, or Majorca‘s 13million.
TUI Travel agent Claire Moye, who has worked in travel for 26 years, has booked over 1,000 trips to Menorca and has even dubbed it a great alternative to the lively Ibiza.
So why visit what Claire called ‘Ibiza’s chilled-out sister’?
In the summertime, Menorca can see highs of 30C, and thanks to the island’s smaller size, airport transfers are short.
Not to mention it can be less expensive too. Claire revealed: “In peak summer, Menorca can work out cheaper than some of the more established hotspots.
“A casual meal out for a family of four typically costs less in Menorca, with families often spending around €60 – €90 compared with €90 – €120 in busier hotspots. And a pint of beer can be a few euros less too.”
If that hasn’t sold you on a trip yet, check out Claire’s top beaches, restaurants and her favourite hidden gems…
Best beaches
“If you love those picture-perfect Ibiza beaches like Cala Comte or Cala d’Hort, then Cala Macarella is Menorca’s answer.
“It’s got those similar limestone cliffs and the most incredible turquoise water – honestly, it’s just as stunning but without lots of people fighting for a spot.
“The smaller sister cove, Macarelleta, is even more secluded and feels really special. I always tell couples to head there if they want that romantic, intimate vibe – although it is a nudist-friendly beach, so just be aware of that before you go.
“Cala Turqueta is another absolute stunner – the water is so clear you can see straight to the bottom, and there are pine trees for shade which is a godsend in the midday heat.
“And if you want something a bit different, Cala Pregonda has this gorgeous reddish-golden sand that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a bit of a walk to get there, but that’s what makes it feel like a proper hidden gem.”
Bars and nightlife
Claire says if you’re after the party life of Ibiza with all its superclubs like the newly reopened UNVRS, then Menorca might not be for you.
But there is one very unique bar that is worth checking out – and it has plenty of room for dancing.
“Cova d’en Xoroi, is just magical. It’s a bar built into caves on the cliffsides, and watching the sunset there with a cocktail in hand is just so beautiful.
“They do have DJ nights too, so be prepared to bring out your Ibiza-style moves once the dance floor opens at 11pm.
“The port of Mahon also has a lovely string of bars along the waterfront where you can have drinks with beautiful harbour views.
“It’s not about clubbing until dawn, but there’s definitely a buzz in the evenings and it has a lot in common with Ibiza old town – both are working natural harbours packed with history perfect for evening promenades.
“I tell all of my customers to try a pomada while they’re there – it’s the local cocktail made with Menorcan gin and lemonade.
“The island actually produces its own gin called Xoriguer, and the gin and tonics there are massive.”
Restaurants
“For restaurants, Café Balear in Ciutadella port is legendary – it’s right on the harbour and the seafood is incredible. You’ll see locals queuing up alongside tourists, which is always a good sign.
“It actually started out as a tavern in the harbour back in the 70s, mainly for seafarers who would drop by in the early hours before they went to work. Nowadays I’d recommend booking ahead because it gets packed!
“Also in Ciutadella, for those who want Michelin standard fine dining like Ibiza’s famous La Gaia or Amante, you should book well ahead for Smoix; set inside a former shoe factory it’s called out as one of the island’s best eateries.
“Or for Ibiza countryside-luxury vibes head for Cala en Porter and the Torralbenc Restaurant, set in a restored finca with vineyard and sea views, for organic farm to table food.”
Shopping
Make sure to take time away from the hotels and the beaches to explore the shops.
Claire said: “The markets in Menorca are brilliant. Mercat des Claustre in Mahón is a traditional covered market where you can get local cheeses, fresh fruits and sobrassada (which is a type of sausage that’s spreadable, a bit like pate).
“Like Ibiza’s best markets, it’s less about shopping and more about soaking up everyday island life. It’s my personal favourite, and ideal for putting together a picnic or picking up gifts to take home.”
Hidden Gems
“One of my favourite hidden gems is Lithica Pedreres de s’Hostal – it’s an abandoned quarry that’s been transformed into gardens with a bit of a maze carved into the stone walls.
“It has the same slightly surreal, unexpected feel as some of Ibiza’s ‘alternative’ cultural spaces. It honestly looks a bit dystopian, but they often host concerts and events there.
“It’s the kind of place that surprises people because they don’t expect to find something so unique on a small island.”
For more on Spanish islands, here are the ‘best of the Balearics’ with Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot’s pick of unspoilt beaches and whitewashed fishing villages.
And here’s the Spanish destination that’s the ‘hottest’ place to travel with £15 flights and over 200 beaches.