Welcome to the Lifestyle section. Here you will find a directory of recommended Hotels and Restaurants with a list of phone numbers should you want to make any reservations whilst you are here. You will also be able to see photos of some of our boat handovers and our customers enjoying the Menorcan Mediterranean Lifestyle !! If you have any photos that you would like us to add, please send them to info@fairlinemenorca.com.

Please explore the individual photo albums by clicking on their relevant image.

Menorca offers some of the finest and most relaxing settings in the entire Mediterranean. From lounging by the pool, sampling some of the best cuisine of local produce , fish and meat, to enjoying an excellent golf course under blue skies and sunshine. All these ingredients make up for a fine place to sail your boat and to visit. Days can be spent idling through the many cala’s (bays), and finding new restaurants to dine out every night.

We are pleased to recommend several places to stay and many restaurants to enjoy around Menorca, and details are given in the list below.

Island Guide of Menorca

Highest Point is Mt. Monte Toro at 1,000 feet

Length is 35 miles

Average Width is 9 miles

Distance to Barcelona is 140 miles

Distance to Mallorca is 25 miles

Population around 72,000

Local Industries are Cheese, Costume jewellery, Footwear, Tourism, Leather goods, Gin

Menorca, known by the locals as ” la isla de azul y verde” (Island of Blue & Green) and has over 100 beaches and numerous coves or “Calas” as they are called in Spanish. In fact there are more beaches on the island than the rest of the Balearic Islands combined. With over a 220 kilometre coastline, which varies from rugged cliffs to breathtaking coves and beautiful white sandy beaches all surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters and clear blue sunny skies. The island is only 47 km long and between 10 and 19 km wide. As a result, the entire island is really all coastline. The sea is a constant factor and an important part of daily life in Menorca, and its numerous coves and natural harbours are ideal for the practice of all kinds of water sports. Menorca presents a fairly level landscape, its highest point being Mount ‘Torro’, on the top of which stands the shrine of the island’s patron saint. The views from there are quite breathtaking and on a clear day, you can see the water all the way around the island, as if looking from a plane or a map of the island. Menorca has a population of around 72,000, and is a bright and radiant island bathed by the magnificent Mediterranean sun, which reflects the dazzling whiteness of the white-washed houses. The lush green countryside, the blue sea and sky, and the white of the buildings are the three main colours that go to form the island of Menorca. A visit to the island is like arriving at a promised land, where everything is nice and simple. The shortest distance from the Spanish mainland by sea is via Barcelona, it is a 9 hour ferry crossing or 40 minutes by air, Palma in Majorca is around a 5 hour ferry crossing or only 20 minutes by air with regular daily flights all year round. There are also some rapid ferry options depending on weather conditions, for instance Menorca to Barcelona in just 3.5 hours. Most major, regional UK airports fly direct scheduled routes to Menorca along with numerous charter flights operated by First Choice, Thompson, Thomas Cook, British Airways, Jet2, Easyjet, etc. Another option of flying into Menorca is to fly to either Palma or Barcelona and then get a transit flight to Menorca which run many times a day, every day.

THE MAIN TOWNS

Mahon, or “Mao” has been the capital of Menorca since the British moved it from Ciutadella in 1721. The reason being, the harbour at 5 km long and over 1 km at its widest point, and 15 to 30m deep, is one of the largest, natural deepest harbour’s in the world, this coupled with its location in the Mediterranean, has made it a strategic stronghold for many nations throughout history. The port Itself is relaxing by day and buzzing by night. The bars and restaurants along the portside come alive at night and it is easy to spend many hours ‘down in the port’, watching the ships, admiring the views, enjoying the hospitality of the restaurants, or just sat taking in the atmosphere and culture. Mahon town has plenty to offer, most of the shopping is along pedestrian streets with wonderful cake shops, swish boutiques, leather, pottery and fresh fish and food in the markets. With traditional Narrow streets to explore, pleasant shady squares with welcoming pavement cafe’s and shopping that ranges from the twice weekly market to expensive designer boutiques, Mahon town is a must on every visit to Menorca.

Es Castell, situated a short distance from Mahon is the town of ‘Es Castell’, the most easterly town in Spain and first to get the morning sun! The town is steeped in military history, which can still be seen today in its architecture, the most obvious is the central square, which was the main parade ground. Now it is a play park for children.

Es Castell has plenty to offer its visitors, with shopping, restaurants and some nightlife. There are market days twice a week, and the Fiesta de San Jaume, at the end of July. Most of the bars and restaurants are situated around the two coves, ‘Calas Fons’ and ‘Calas Corb’. Calas Fons is the main place to head for, it has something to suit all pockets and all tastes and has a brilliant atmosphere.

Fornells, a lovely fishing village with lots of Mediterranean atmosphere, beautiful waterfront restaurants and bars with some shops. A favourite of the King of Spain where he chooses to indulge in some fabulous local fresh lobster stew known locally as ‘caldareta’.

White-washed houses, palm tree lined waterfront, its an amazing place to while away hours on end soaking up the sunshine.

Ciutadella, on the west side of the island, is an historic town that has held up well to the pressure of tourism in the twentieth century. It was originally named by the Carthaginians who called it ‘Jamma’, and was the original capital of Menorca until the British came along and moved it to Mahon in the eighteen century. But Ciutadella still remains the religious capital of Menorca.

The harbour, a narrow inlet is one of the smallest ports in the Mediterranean. Here, sitting in good company at one of the harbour side cafe’s, you can experience what Menorca is all about, relaxed and bathed in sunshine, watching the boats bob up and down and the people strolling by, all the worries of the world seem to vanish.

The Beach Guide

Punta Prima

A large beach of fine white sand, very rocky at the eastern end. Situated in a small but growing resort with a good selection of accommodation, with ample bars and shops, easy parking right on the beach, sun beds, water sports and lifeguard facilities. Very family friendly.

Binibeca

Small sandy cove in the resort of Binibeca. With Binibeca Vell to the west & Cala Torret to the east with a selection of bars and restaurants in each. Binibeca is all self catering villas and apartments, not a hotel in sight. Beach bar (renowned the world over ?) sun beds, water sports, easy parking. Lifeguard facilities.

Cales Coves

Has a small coarse beach reached by a short walk down a steep sided, limestone gorge. There are many caves high up in the walls of the gorge, making the exploration of this area very exciting for children and there dads as well.

Cala en Porter

All the facilities of an established holiday resort, quite large and lively by Menorcan standards beach bars and easy parking. The beach is reached from the resort by steps, or down the windy road, and there is a regular shuttle from the centre straight to the beach. Good beach with everything one needs, beach bars, sun beds, water sports etc. Lifeguard facilities.

Son Bou

The longest beach on Menorca. A good choice of accommodation, although some are a good walk or drive from the beach. Bars and restaurants in the nearby commercial centre. Three modern beach bars with telephones connected by a wooden pathway. A red cross hut with lifeguards, sun beds, wind surfing, water slides and plenty of space for relaxing and beach games. Very large car park.

Santo Tomas

At the western end of Son Bou. A long narrow strip of soft white sand backed by dunes. A very quiet resort with beach bars, water sports and parking facilities.

Cala Trebaluger

Typical of the stunning Menorca coastline. An absolutely amazing beach and one seen on many Menorcan postcards.

Cala Mitjana

Situated down a small rocky track off the road from Ferreries to Galdana, on the left hand side just before Cala Galdana but at the end, lies a idyllic south-facing cove, bounded by wooded cliffs. Easy to park, but no facilities, bring a picnic and a camera.

Cala Galdana

Known as the “Queen of the calas”, it is a beautiful pine-clad bay. This wide, open-mouth bay, is sheltered from any winds and has all the facilities including hotels, villa hire, bars, restaurants and water sports. There is a great restaurant overlooking the bay called ‘Mirador’ – well worth ordering some local seafood.

Son Saura

Follow a sign posted minor road from the southern ring road at Ciutadella. There are many gates to open, but the track is unmistakable and leads to a beautiful sheltered bay with gently shelving pure white sand. No bar, No restaurants, No people or facilities, except parking.

Son Xoriguer

Two smallish beaches of white sand. Small resort with a hotel and a nice centre around a marina, easy access, ample parking, beach bars and restaurants. Water sports are a specialty.

Son Parc

Medium size resort with small commercial centre featuring a large white sandy beach. It is ideal for children as it is very shallow for the first 20 to 30 meters. Good parking near to the beach, there is a beach bar and water sports of all kinds.

Arenal d’en Castell

With two large hotels and lots of villas and apartments, the beach is an almost perfect circular cove, with fine sand that gently slopes into the water. This is a good family resort with beach bars, restaurants and all types of water sports available.

Cala Mesquida

A lovely unspoiled cove with plenty of parking. This beach is popular with the locals on a weekend but is less busy throughout the week. This is probably the closest beach to Mahon by road as it is about a 6 minute drive.

Cala Macarella

An extremely picturesque pine-fringed cove. Approachable by car from the outer ring-road at Ciutadella or by foot from Cala Galdana. Beach bar and sun beds, etc, for hire. Taking a five min walk around the cliff to Macarelleta is well worth it, don’t take anything with you then swim back.

Cala Macarelleta

Part of the picturesque pine fringed cove above.

Cala Blanca

Small picturesque resort beach with all the facilities you need, like sun beds, pedalos and a choice of beach bars serving hot and cold food and drinks.

Agaiarens

Classified as an area of special interest. Beautiful unspoiled beach with dunes. Walks with panoramic views and picnic areas. Also a land train will take visitors down to the beach. Toilets and car parking provided. An outdoor Museum is 2 km away towards the lighthouse where there are also toilets and a small bar.

Cala Pregonda

Access is by a 20 min walk from Binimella This beach is outstandingly beautiful. A sandy beach surrounded by unusual rock formations, pines and tamarisk. No facilities. It is a popular Menorca postcard image and well worth the trek to find it.

Cala Turqueta

Well worth a visit. No facilities. Take a boat. Again, this is one of the usual postcard images of Menorca. A very stunning bay.

Useful Information for Menorca

EMERGENCY – Police, Fire, Ambulance & Coastguard: 112 (like calling 999 in the UK)

National Police: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Local Police/Fire brigade: 092
Medical Emergencies: 061
Sea Rescue/Coast Guard: +34 900 20 22 02

Tourist Information Offices:
General Central Switchboard: +34 902 92 90 15
Airport Arrivals Terminal: Tel: +34 971 15 71 15
Mahon Bus Station: Tel: +34 971 36 37 90
Mahon Port: Tel: +34 971 35 59 52
Ciutadella: Placa de la Catedral, 5: Tel: +34 971 38 26 93
Ciutadella Turisme: Plaza del Borne, 15: Tel: +34 971 48 14 12
Es Castell: +34 971 35 15 22

State Hospitals:
Mateu Orfila (Maó)
Tel: +34 971 48 70 00

Private Hospitals:
Policlinica Virgen de Gracia (Maó)
Tel: +34 971 351 115

State Medical centres:
Dalt Sant Joan (Maó)
Tel: +34 971 352 990

Es Banyer (Alaior)
Tel: +34 971 372 917 / +34 971 372 931

Canal Salat (Ciutadella)
Tel: +34 971 480 111 / +34 971 480 112

Airport:
Menorca Airport General Information
Tel: +34 971 157 000

Taxis:
Radio Taxi
Tel: +34 971 367 111

Taxi Mahon
Tel: +34 971 357 700

Car Hire:
Sol Car Hire
www.solcarhire.com
Tel: +34 696 990 197 / +34 971 364 552

Autos Valls Rent a car
www.autosvalls.com
Tel.971 57 37 40

Autos Amigo
Tel: +34 971 377 290

Moorings:
Marina Port Mahon
Tel: +34 971 366 787

Marina Menorca
Tel: +34 971 365 889

Club Maritimo
Tel: +34 971 365 022

As citizens of any of the following countries, you are entitled to any type of information and help from these telephone numbers:

United Kingdom. Tel: +34 902 109 356 (main central switchboard)
Mrs Deborah Hellyer, MBE, Honorary British Consul
Address: Sa Casa Nova, Cami de Biniatap, 30, Horizonte or Apartado de Correos 28, 07720, Es Castell, Menorca.

Germany. Tel: +34 971 361 668
France. Tel: +34 971 354 387
Netherlands. Tel: +34 971 354 363
Italy. Tel: +34 971 368 696

The spectacular local festivities (fiestas), where the horse becomes the protagonist, are held in honour of each town’s patron saint:

Sant Joan Ciutadella 23 – 24 June
Diumenge des Be Ciutadella 21 – 22 June
Sant Martí Es Mercadal 19 – 20 July
Sant Jaume Es Castell 24 – 26 July
Sant Antoni Fornells 26 – 27 July
Sant Cristòfol Es Migjorn Gran 02 – 04 August
Sant Gaietà Llumçanes 02 – 03 August
Sant Llorenç Alaior 09 – 10 August
Sant Climent Sant Climent 16 -17 August
Sant Bartomeu Ferreries 23 – 25 August
Sant Lluís Sant Lluís 30 – 31 August
Mare de Déu de Gràcia Maó 07 – 09 September

L O C A L T O W N I N F O R M A T I O N

MAHON:
Town Hall Tel. +34 971 369 800
Consell Insular (Island Council) Tel. +34 971 356 050
Police Station Tel. +34 971 363 712 / +34 971 363 716
Transmediterranea Ferries Tel. +34 902 454 645

CIUTADELLA:
Town Hall Tel. +34 971 381 050
Geriatric centre Tel. +34 971 480 100
Clinica Menorca Tel. +34 971 480 505
Radio Taxi Tel. +34 971 382 896
Taxi Movil Tel. +34 971 482 222
Balear Ferry Tel. +34 971 818 668

ALAIOR:
Town Hall Tel. +34 971 371 002

ES MERCADAL:
Town Hall Tel. +34 971 375 002

FERRERIES:
Town Hall Tel. +34 971 373 003

ES CASTELL:
Town Hall Tel. +34 971 365 193

ES MIGJORN:
Town Hall Tel. +34 971 370 111

Weather for Menorca

Here you can find various weather reports and forecasts for Mahon, Menorca. By clicking on these forecasts, you will be taken to the specific individual web sites, in which further detailed forecasts can be found. Some of these sites also feature localised weather for specific areas on the south coast and north coast of the island.