4 Surprises that Await on Menorca Villa Holidays

Packing your swimsuit, sun-hat and sunscreen and heading off to an island resort is hardly a pioneer’s adventure. Menorca, the "little sister" island in the Spanish Balearics has been on the radar of many a sun-seeking tourist for years. It draws people precisely because it has a reputation for being calm, idyllic and well resourced with quality accommodation and facilities.

But you may still be surprised, and pleasantly so, by this popular destination.

Sustainable Tourism

Many people who plan Menorca villa holidays don’t know they are heading to an island devoted to sustainable tourism. In fact, the small island is a UNESCO Biosphere reserve. Designated as such in 1993, the administration of the island has long tried to promote sustainable means of transportation through easy-to-manage walking trails and the preservation of its wildlife, which includes a large population of butterfly species. It will help you to relax as you recline on your deck chair knowing your footprint on this island may dent the soft sand but that it need not make a detrimental impact on the environment.

Ancient formations

While it’s relatively diminutive size may not make it a likely beacon of historic affairs, the island's position in the Mediterranean has given it a lot of attention over the centuries. When staying on Menorca, villa holidays put you in the calm cusp of what was once a bubbling cultural and historical melting pot. From the Minoans to the Romans, the Medieval Jews to the 18th century French, this small island has heard many a dialect and seen many different uniform over the years. From ancient basilica to curious rock formations, these cultures have left their mark for you to uncover and interpret. If you can tear yourself away from your deck chair, there is so much to discover about the island’s past.

Local favourites

When planning a visit to Menorca, villa holidays will conjure up visions of the local delicacies in which you can indulge. Being caught between the embrace of Spain, France and Italy, there are of course the usual culinary culprits to expect. Wine, sweet flaons, Mahon cheese, and French mayonnaise have a long and delicious history here, but it may be a surprise to discover the island’s affinity for gin. Born of the lingering British influence, the local gin and the flavours found when mixed with island-grown lemons have created such tantalising cocktails as the local "pomada".

Cycle friendly

The sight of rolling golden hills and sparkling sand banks on brochures for Menorca villa holidays may not immediately make you think of cycling. But the focus on sustainable tourism, combined with the relative flatness of the island, makes the place surprisingly full of wonderful cycling tracks. There is little that can compare to a smooth ride past shining seas with the Mediterranean breeze gently skimming through your hair – bliss!

Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of great accommodation for your Menorca villa holidays. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.