Why Menorca Is The New Star Of The Balearic Islands
Ibiza and Mallorca have long drawn a stylish summer crowd, but the smallest of the Balearic Islands, Menorca, is finally having its moment in the sun. An understated Mediterranean gem, there are chic new hotels, a new Hauser & Wirth cultural space and endless, secluded coves. Here’s our insider guide to summer on Menorca.
Where to Stay
Son Blanc Farmhouse
This 19th-century farmhouse has been transformed into a boutique hotel with a 320-acre working farm. The 14 rooms are different with private gardens, terraces with outdoor hot tubs, dramatic views, or balconies onto the wilderness.
Book here
Menorca Experimental
Parisian-born Experimental Group has pulled off their finest work yet in a 19th-century Menorcan finca, set amongst 30 hectares of beautiful pine groves. With a design inspired by artists such as Dali and Miro, a stunning pool with its own bar and a veg garden to supply its brilliant restaurant. We love the rooms which come with their own dipping pools.
Book here
Cristine Bedfor Hotel
If you’d prefer to stay in Mahon, Menorca’s capital, Cristine Bedford Hotel opened in spring 2021 in the Old Quarter, very close to the Old Port and the Mercat del Peix. Decorated with antiques and a healthy dose of whimsy and color, this bijou guest house also has a very pretty garden with a pool and an honesty bar that makes its guests feel right at home.
Book here
Where to Eat & Drink
Nonna Bazaar
Nonna Bazaar is a new farm-to-fork restaurant set on a 400-hectare working farm. Designed to be so much more than just a place to eat, there will be a dynamic roster of live music and events, a farm shop and a boutique store for chic curiosities to take home. Laidback and charming, make sure you book in for lunch or dinner during your stay.
- Mon Restaurant & Fonda a Michelin-starred restaurant by Menorcan chef Felip Llufriu, Mon Restaurant is a love letter to his island, set in a boutique hotel in Ciutadella. Incredibly delicious and inventive, it’s so affordable that you might wonder if they’ve got the bill wrong.
- Cafè Balear stop by Café Belear, also in Ciutadella, for brilliant tapas — the pan con tomate, steamed clams, tuna carpaccio and croquetas are all stand-out. And make sure you get a seat outside.
- Cova d’en Xoroi, has the most extraordinary location, high in the cliffs. The sunset view is the best in Menorca.
- Bodegas Binifadet Menorca the oldest on the island, it’s been going since the 1970s. It’s well worth taking a tour of the 12-acre vineyard, before tasting the wines.
What to Do
Hauser & Wirth
The powerhouse art duo behind Hauser & Wirth opened a new outpost on Isla del Ray, an island in Mahon harbour, in 2021 in the 18th century outbuildings of an old naval hospital. A multifaceted arts centre, it has eight gallery spaces, an outdoor sculpture trail and a garden designed by Piet Oudolf.
Boat Days
Menorca is the proud owner of endless hidden coves and beautiful beaches that are only accessible by sea. Taking a boat out — on your own or with a skipper — is easily the best way to make the most of its brilliant blue waters.
Horse Riding
Riding is part of the Menorquin way of life. Follow in the footsteps of Cami de Cavalls and discover this unsung beauty of the Balearics on horseback.
84 Rooms recommends: An Insider’s Guide To The Lesser-Known Side Of Ibiza, and The Mediterranean Destinations For Summer 2023.