We The People

You all know how I feel about a salty European destination. Especially when the destination happens to involve a Spanish island. We’ve traveled to our fair share of sexy beach spots, and I’m going to put it out there and say that Spanish beaches may take the top prize. Every beach is bizarrely beautiful but so different, the cliffs are raw and magnificent and the water is always impossibly clear.

Sam and I recently spent the better part of a week on Menorca with Faithfull the Brand, exploring the best parts of the island (by scooter, our holiday transportation of choice), eating our body weight of fresh Mediterranean cuisine and sipping on extra cold pomada’s (local gin and cloudy lemonade). It was tough, I tell ya.

Stay

Boutique Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes is nestled in the heart of Mahon (the capital of Menorca) and is the ideal spot if you’re after something central. With only eight rooms it’s peaceful and lovingly cared for. We stayed in the ‘Noble’ room which was the perfect mix of quaint and minimalism. And their orange tree-filled courtyard is pretty damn magic.

Otherwise if you’re after something a bit more remote, Alcaufar Vell Hotel Rural is the spot. Rustic, spacious and pretty much in the middle of nowhere. We went with the double room with a terrace which is separate from the main building – making for an even more secluded stay. Their set brunch (pictured below) is a force to be reckoned with; get those elasticated pants out.

As a quick side-note, we booked both of these using last-minute deals which ended up saving us almost 50%. It’s risky, but sometimes last-minute bookings do pay off.

Eat

From it’s location on the main stretch of the port you’d be forgiven for thinking Taverna Ca’s Mestre D’aixa is just another tourist haunt. But the food here is exceptionally fresh and interesting. Think Mediterranean with a modern twist. Best meal we had all week.

For a traditional Menorcan meal (complete with olives and sherry on arrival) Ca’n Olga hits the spot. Most restaurants have set menus for the day, but I’m all about a la carte – you’re only there once so make sure you order exactly what you want. Also, make the most of the garden courtyard by heading there for lunch.

We didn’t make it to Bodegas Binifadet, but will undoubtedly head there on our next trip. Wine is a big part of Spanish culture, and friends have raved about the winery and the lunch. Let me know if you end up going!

Swim

The lovely concierge at Alcaufar Vell Hotel told us about Cala Roig; a secret little beach on the southern tip of the island. We walked in the crazy heat for about half an hour through farmland to get there, which was more than worth it. A very quiet, tiny beach that encapsulates everything that makes the Spanish coastline so great.

On the last day we ventured to Cales Coves, an impressive coastal corner which is home to over 90 excavated coves dating back to 500BC. I prefer rocky bays to perfect white sand, so this place was pretty much heaven. Climb over the rocks until you find yourself a quiet perch, the leap into the turquoise waters below.

The best beaches generally don’t have direct road access or have any amenities, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and take plenty of water.

The Best View

Cala En Porter is one of the first resort towns of the island – and for good reason. It may be touristic but it’s also home to some pretty insane views. Head to Club Menorca for a cold drink – it’s nothing fancy, just some plastic chairs and a simple menu – but it is home to the best view on the island.

Explore

The best spots in Menorca are found on foot. Walk around the old cobbled streets and take in the relaxed Menorcan way of life. During the summer many of the small villages host mini street festivals in the evening with live music and homemade empanadas.

Created in collaboration with Faithfull the Brand