Menorca by Boat: The Quiet Balearic and Its Best Calas
A sailing guide to Menorca — the calm, unspoilt Balearic. A biosphere reserve of turquoise calas, the harbours of Mahón and Ciutadella, and a fraction of Ibiza's crowds.
If Ibiza is the loud Balearic, Menorca is the quiet one — a UNESCO biosphere reserve of turquoise calas, prehistoric stone monuments and two of the finest natural harbours in the Mediterranean, with a fraction of its neighbour's crowds. It is the antidote island, and a week here is about swimming in cove after empty cove.
Mahón — the great harbour
Menorca's capital sits at the head of one of the deepest natural harbours in the world — over five kilometres of sheltered water. Board here and spend the first evening in the Georgian-influenced old town (the British held the island in the 18th century, and it shows).
The south-coast calas
The south is where the postcard calas cluster — Cala Macarella, Cala Turqueta, Cala Mitjana — a string of white-sand, pine-backed inlets with impossibly clear water. Anchor off, swim, and move to the next. This is the heart of a Menorca charter.
Ciutadella — the western harbour
At the island's western end, Ciutadella's narrow historic harbour and honey-stone old town make a beautiful contrast to Mahón — and a lively evening ashore.
The north coast
The wilder, redder north — Cala Pregonda, Cala Morell — is more exposed but dramatic and empty. A settled-weather day rewards those who venture round.
Practical notes
- The Tramuntana. The north wind can blow on Menorca's north coast; the south stays sheltered and holds the best calas. See the best time to sail the Balearics.
- Combine with Mallorca for a two-island week. Compare on where to charter.
- Ready to plan? Browse Menorca charters.
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