Menorca: Talayotic sites, lighthouses and turquoise coves

Route description

Car ferries sail to Maó and Ciutadella from Barcelona, and to Ciutadella from Alcúdia in Mallorca, a crossing of a few hours. Menorca is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and much of its coast is protected; wild camping and overnight parking of motorhomes outside campsites are not allowed. Start in Maó, which has one of the longest natural harbours in the Mediterranean; boat trips leave from the quay.

Just west of Maó off the Me-1, the Talayotic village of Talatí de Dalt shows a taula sanctuary, dry-stone houses and caves. The prehistoric sites of Menorca are on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Then head north to the s’Albufera des Grau natural park and Cap de Favàritx, where a lighthouse stands on dark slate. From mid-May to September private cars are not allowed on the last stretch and a small bus runs from Maó.

Cross to Fornells, a fishing village on a deep, sheltered bay known for lobster stew and calm water for kayaking. Then drive south to Es Mercadal and the winding road up Monte Toro, the island’s highest point, with views over the whole island. The Me-1 is the only main road and runs 45 km from Maó to Ciutadella; everything else is narrow country lanes between stone walls.

The south coast has the famous coves: Cala Macarella and Macarelleta are reached from car parks south of Ciutadella, which close when full in summer, when a bus runs from town. The Camí de Cavalls footpath links the coves along the whole coast. Finally, stop at the Naveta des Tudons and end in Ciutadella, the old capital, with a cathedral, palaces and a narrow harbour. The loop is about 120 km.