The island of Menorca

The second largest Balearic Island may not be as glamorous as its siblings but Menorca has a charm and appeal all of its own. Even though it''s smaller than big sister Mallorca it still has an equal number of beaches and here you can have a beach all to yourself in the height of summer. Menorca is the least discovered of the Balearics.

Start in the understatedly pretty capital, Mao. The port is the second largest natural deep water port in the world after Pearl Harbour and is truly impressive but the rest of the city has plenty of appeal if you spend some time wandering its compact streets.

Since 1993, over 75% of the island is an UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve. If your lucky you could catch a glimpse of the last remaining Mediterranean turtles as well as rare birds and other protected species. The best place to spy protected wild animals is in the Parc Natural S''Albufera des Grau.

Menorca brings out the inquisitive explorer in all of us. From rock climbing its rugged cliffs to making use of the brisk winds buffeting the north of the island to go windsurfing. Alternatively, if being in the water is more your thing, the rocky coastline means snorkelling around the headlands and dramatic rock formations will be very rewarding.

Inland you can find some impressive prehistoric monuments such as Trepuco and Torre d''en Galmes. Like Menorca''s versions of Stonehenge, nobody really knows what these giant stone formations actually mean. They are breathtaking nonetheless and are a great place to stop for a scenic picnic.

If you want more culture, the old capital Ciutadella is an elegant example of Moorish architecture, whilst at Sanseria you can explore Phoenician remains. A worthwhile hike is to the small Baroque church clinging to the top of Monte Toro. This may be hard work but the views are just reward.

Menorca can safely admit to have some of the best beaches in the Balearics. A new view of paradise is interpreted by the dark red sand beaches meeting rocky limestones cliffs and pine-lined coves. The best beaches are hidden and accessed through thick lines of pine, olive and lemon trees. The best of them all are Cala Macareletta, Cala Galdana, Cala del Pilar and Cala Trebaluger.

Getting around Menorca isn''t exactly straightforward if you don''t have your own wheels, so make sure you hire a car upon arrival.

Article Source: http://www.casinoarticlessite.com

Jarrett Altrogge is very fond of the Balearic islands and has been going to Menorca for years. Getting cheap car hire Menorca is essential, you can get a very cheap one at Ritmocars.co.uk

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