AOW's Travel Tips from: Menorca
This summer, I ventured to Menorca as I was seeking time by the Mediterranean without the usual mass of tourists. I was looking for a calm, laid-back destination without pretentiousness and that’s just what I found.
While there’s not a lot remaining in terms of craft industry (that I could find, at least), you can still have a lovely experience meeting local producers of wine and cheese as well as exploring some of the area’s great vintage shops. And if you spend any time in Mahon, you’ll feel the sense of the town’s up-and-coming design scene coming through.
The island is wonderfully dense in terms of nature and beaches. I know it’s been changing quickly but if you go off-season, you can still have the hundreds of beaches almost to yourself, plus miles of gorgeous hiking trails that surround the entire island.
While I am by no means an expert on this island, here are a few faves that I came across during my travels, with an eye toward supporting small businesses and local artists:
For Antiques + Artisanal Shops…
If you’re on the hunt for vintage, be sure to go here and track down Toni Monjo who has a tiny shop in Es Mercadal. He is a gem and probably had the most exciting pieces in terms of vintage. Papillon Menorca and Naiv are both beautiful shops in Cuidadella. Carmen of Espanolita was kind enough to share these shop names and is one to follow if looking for a beautiful artisanal-focused retreat experience on the neighboring island of Mallorca. If I were to recommend a retreat, this would be the one, hands down! Also be sure to check out Cuitadella’s weekly farmers market and the Mercat des Peix. Before you leave, be sure to pick up a pair of handmade leather avarca sandals, which are proudly made on the island, and incredibly long-lasting and comfortable. You will find shops and factories throughout the island.
Plan to spend some time in the capital, Mahon – I was pleasantly surprised by my experience. Visit Vichy's beautiful shop Tembo, which I work with. Tembo offers a beautiful selection of Spanish ceramics and other artisanal goods from around the world. Take the ferry over to Hauser + Wirth Gallery, a hot spot for art enthusiasts and gallery owners that represents over 90 artists and estates who have been instrumental in shaping its identity. It’s on Isla del Rey, with rotating exhibitions across eight galleries.
Eats…
Follow the markets and be ready to eat a lot of cheese and empanadas! For something trendy, Experimental Menorca is perfect for a cocktail, a beautiful dinner, or even an overnight stay. If looking for something casual and local, Cas Sucrer has been serving homemade empanadas and traditional desserts since 1884. Can Bernadet, situated in Parc Natural de s'Albufera des Grau, serves traditional fish dishes and tapas in a lovely, down-to-earth atmosphere. For food to bring home, think about some of Menorca's locally produced gin or Mahón-Menorca cheese.
Fave Beaches + Walks…
Cala Pregonda + Cala Alcaufar were some of my faves. Honestly pack a picnic, choose a section of the Cami de Cavalls trail (GR 22) and walk from beach to beach. Es Grau is another beautiful spot close to beaches and trails and there’s a small fisherman’s village in Parc Natural de s'Albufera des Grau.
Charming Villages…
Personally, I loved the feeling of the interior villages a bit more as they were less touristy, including Torrett, Alaior, and Sant Lluis.