Beat the post-Christmas, mid-winter blues by travelling to Menorca in January. Not only is one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations significantly milder than much of Europe and almost definitely the UK during this time of year, but January is a particularly lively month to visit the island as St Antony’s Day is held at this time each year.

This special day on Menorca’s busy religiously-motivated fiesta calendar commemorates the island’s liberation from the Moors.

Whilst the whole of Menorca celebrates this poignant date with a passion and fervour that only the Spanish can seem to achieve, it is the town of Cuitadella, the capital of the island, where the celebrations are particularly spectacular, flamboyant and not to be missed.

Asides a procession of gaudy and glitzy floats, costumes and music making its way through Cuitadella’s streets, pausing momentarily to enable the hordes of visitors to watch the colourful and well-rehearsed display whilst catching their breath, a lively market takes place in the town’s main square, aptly known as Placa San Antonio.

The market is an ideal place to experience truly traditional Spanish amusements. From spices to make authentic Spanish tapas being sold in abundance, to paella bubbling away in huge pots, la Placa San Antonio is an enchanting place to visit in January on the island of Menorca.

Asides witnessing this fascinating event, the town of Cuitadella boasts many impressive sites that warrants the capital to being a discerning history, culture and art enthusiast’s ‘must see’ locations.

The town hall is one such building, which, being the former palace of the Arab governor and later became the royal palace under the Aragonese, is simply stunning.

For any lover of Italian architecture, many of the religious and civil buildings in Cuitadella were built with an Italian style in the 17^th century, and consequently give the island’s capital a unique architectural, artistic and historic identity.

Although it is on St Antony’s day when the town proudly displays its uniqueness and unrivalled identity, by putting on a not to be missed and not to be forgotten spectacle.

The report investigated and compared the cost of 16 common purchases from supermarkets, such as milk, eggs, bread, water and vegetables, in 13 different popular European holiday destinations. The research found that Mallorca was the most cost-effective destination where 16 supermarket items cost £44.23.

The Algarve proved to be the second cheapest country for food and drink, with the 16 items costing a marginally more £44.36. Whilst third place went back to Spain with the Costa Blanca’s supermarket forage totalling £47.28.

Vintage Travel’s outstanding portfolio of self-catering accommodation includes many villas, ranging from the magnificent and modern to the traditional and rustic and includes many properties in Mallorca, the Costa Blanca and Portugal. For example, in the Algarve, a beautiful region in southern Portugal, we have plenty of villas offering sensational views, first-rate accommodation, all with their own private pools.

One such property is 2 bedroom Algarve Villa Gazeio, a beautifully maintained large detached house less than five kilometres from the interesting and historical maritime town of Lagos. Gazeio has been decorated and furnished to an extremely high spec and this welcoming and unpretentious villa is the perfect place to enjoy a ‘budget conscious’ self-catering holiday.

Whilst over in Mallorca, the most economical destination for a self-catering holiday according to the report, Vintage Travel’s portfolio of villas covers many of the stunning island’s diverse towns and villages.

For example, the two bedroom Mallorca villa of Serelleta (pictured) tucked away in the wooden and tranquil slopes of the Ca’n Bosc valley, provides the perfect accommodation for a peaceful, rural getaway in the least expensive European holiday self-catering destination. Serelleta is blessed with sensational panoramic views of some of the most varied and picturesque landscapes on Mallorca.

This two bedroom, two bathroom villa is located several kilometres from the town of Pollenca which is plentiful of bars, restaurants, shops and supermarkets, enabling guests to take advantage of buying the most inexpensive produce in European holiday destinations.

“Is there any month in Spain which doesn’t have any fiestas?” a slightly perplexed student asked his Spanish teacher during a class dedicated to fiestas in Spain.

“No”, replied the teacher, “barely a week goes by when there is not some kind of religious fiesta taking place”.

The word ‘fiesta’ has become almost as synonymous with Spain as sangria and paella, with locals and visitors celebrating fiestas with similar passion and vigour.

The island of Menorca is no stranger to almost “wall-to-wall” year-round fiestas, each one a unique and exceptional celebration of a religious, historical and cultural component of Menorcan life. Although it is perhaps the Fiestas de Sant Joan, which are the biggest, boldest and most vibrant annual fiestas on Menorca.

Held on 19 – 24 June in the town and municipality of Ciutadella on the western end of Menorca, the whole region comes alive with vivacious public displays of folklore dancing, children’s activities and games and music, as people travel from every corner of Menorca, Spain and beyond to soak up some of the tradition and culture this highly entertaining fiesta surmounts.

The Fiestas de Sant Joan dates back to the 14^th century and is in worship of Sant Joan de Missa, the patron saint of the town of Ciutadella, which has remained the island’s main religious centre since the bishop refused to move from the town many centuries ago.

Horses and horseback riding play a central role in the Fiestas de Sant Joan, with the annual “Jaleo” being one of the main attractions. A huge crowd gathers to witness the “Jaleo”, where horses and riders demonstrate their horsemanship skills to the rhythm of traditional “jaleo” music.

The following day the “convida” takes place, when a “noble rider” invites town hall officials to witness a series of medieval games, as horsemen joist dangerously in a series of equestrian trials, much to the delight of the highly captivated crowd.

This profoundly atmospheric fiesta is concluded on 24 June with a spectacular firework display, and really is an event not to be missed.

The marvellous 3 bed Menorca villa, S’Hortal from Vintage Travel would be the perfect place to stay during the Fiesta.

The old stone quarry Ses Pedreres de S’Hostal in Ciudadella

Determined not to be outrivaled, the young musicians of Mao hold an “International Music Festival” in Mao’s magnificent theatre known as Teatro principal de Mao. Jazz music has an all-pervading presence on the island and in devotion to its passion for jazz an “International Jazz Festival” is held on Menorca each year, with the most revered of jazz musicians arriving from each corner of the globe and siphoning out their melodies much to the delight of a rapturous audience.

Menorca’s love affair for music, fiestas and unique events is propelled deep into the hearts of the locals and the island’s fondness for festivities and merriment is present on a daily basis. And when you consider that Menorca, like the other Balearic islands have beautiful all-year round weather, with some six hours of sunshine and temperatures pumping out an average 18 degrees Celsius in the winter, it is not difficult to digest why the island of Menorca is a ‘hotspot’ for a winter vacation.

Whatever time of the year you decide to visit this magical and enlightening island, a visit to Monte Toro is obligatory. Standing majestically at 357 meters, Monte Toro is Menorca’s spiritual and geographical centre and given the fact that the Balearics boast 300 days of sunshine a year, experiencing Monte Toro’s spectacular views of almost the whole island on a clear day, is easily attainable.

The view from the top of Monte Toro is breathtaking

For further information on Menorca and its many attractions visit: http://www.menorca.world-guides.com.

Looking for a winter villa to rent in Menorca?

Where does Spanish Tapas originate from?

The Spanish word “tapa” actually means “lid” or “cover” so how does this relate to food? There are several interesting accounts…

One belief is that the etymology of the word tapa comes from placing an item over the top of a drink to protect it from flies. Somewhere in time it became custom to place small pieces of food on top of the lid and henceforth tapas was born.

Another story is that “tapas” originated around the sixteenth century, when several inn keepers in Castilla discovered that they disguise the taste of bad wine by accompanying the drinks with strong smelling cheese.

The most common theory is that tapas was born when King Alfonso the Tenth (known as The Wise) became ill and had to take small bites of food with some wine. Once the King had recovered from the afflicting disease, he decreed that no wine was to be served in any of the inns unless accompanied with something to eat. This was a wise precaution to counteract the adverse effects of alcohol. Once the “botillerias” (bottle shops) and taverns became established throughout Spain, the King’s decree remained in place.

Whichever theory you believe, the tradition of tapas spread throughout Spain and continues in many countries worldwide today. But if it is authentic tapas you desire, served in the traditional way “para gratis”, then the province of Granada in perhaps the best place to experience a taste of bona fide Spanish dishes from ambiguous beginnings.

Water Sports

Sailing in Menorca

With sailing events happening throughout the year this is possibly the most popular activity on the island. If you are lucky enough to be visiting during the King’s Cup or the Princes Sofia Trophy then we suggest you go and check it out. You can charter all manner of boats (from learner dinghy’s to million pound yachts) around the major ports on the island. A great way to experience the crystal waters surrounding the island.

There are loads of places to explore around Menorca in a boat

Windsurfing in Menorca

Menorca is perfect for the beginner to intermediate windsurfer as there are no extreme conditions. There are plenty of schools where you can hire equipment and an instructor if you need to.

Fishing in Menorca

I know I’m going to regret saying this BUT it’s very difficult not to catch a fish in Menorca… the waters are teaming with them! We suggest you hire a rod and go find yourself a quiet cove to fish in… heaven! Alternatively there are plenty of fishing trips you can join, which are always eventful!

Take yourself off for an afternoon and go fishing

Beach activities in Menorca

The beaches are lush and more often than not, looked over by a lifeguard. You’ll find great swimming, volleyball, beach football and plenty of outlets to get yourself refreshments. Just get there early during peak seasons to avoid the crowds.

Diving and snorkelling in Menorca

The water is clear and very clean making diving a great experience. The waters are crammed with sea life – you’ll see many different breeds, colours and sizes of curious fish. If it’s scuba diving you are after then there are plenty of schools that will train you or lend the experienced divers kit.

Jet boating, jet skiing, water-skiing, paragliding and sea kayaking in Menorca

You’ll find all of these activities on the more popular beaches.

Land Sports

Hiking in Menorca

You’ve got choices! Whether you fancy a coastal, mountainous, nature reserve or forest walks you are normally only 15 minutes drive away. There are some fantastic views to take as well as an abundance of wildlife and fauna… just remember your camera! We recommend hiking around the Cap de Favaritx, Cap de Cavalleria and S’Albufera areas.

You have to go and check out Cap de Favaritx

Playing Golf in Menorca

Golf is in fact the most popular sport played in Menorca. The courses are often set in beautiful, lush surrounds and equipment or lessons are readily available for hire, but beware… you have to book in advance.

Horse Riding in Menorca

There are a handful of riding schools on the island that provide facilities for beginners and experts alike. The schools are normally a little off the beaten track so make sure you do your research before you go. You’ll typically be taken on scenic riding trails under the supervision of an instructor of course.

The coastal horse rides are incredible, especially at sunset!

Cycling in Menorca

Menorca was designed for the cyclist! You can hire racing or mountain bikes all over the island and the hire shop will normally share with you the most scenic routes to take dependent upon your level of fitness.

Looking to rent a private villa with a pool in Menorca?

Mahon Harbour is the largest natural harbour in the world

Back in the days of Hannibal, the Carthaginian general Mago first founded his naval base here, then the Romans then pretty much every other major European naval fleet after that has tried to get their paws on it. 

Menorca was under British rule for 200 years and this meant that the might of the British navy were stationed here throughout the years – the eighteenth century saw an incredibly eventful set of events. Notably the epic siege of 1756 where the fort in Mahon was being defended by William, Baron Blakeney, lieutenant-governor of Minorca, with a force of about 5,000 soldiers and workmen, against a force of about 15,000 French troops. The defenders fought valiantly, however a mix up in communication was to blame for the surrender of the garrison – ultimately leading to Blakeney becoming a national hero and Vice Admiral John Byng (who fought an indecisive naval battle with the French) was executed by firing-squad for his failure.

A painting of the infamous Battle of Mahon between British defenders and a determined French naval force

Today, the harbour is often bustling with local fishing boats and million pound yachts – it’s historic and sophisticated and is a fantastic way to spend a lazy day.

Expect to see some 'jaw dropping' yachts anchored up in Mahon Harbour

There are lots of things to keep you occupied in the town centre of Mahon too, plenty of shops, museums, a local market and a fantastic church – the Santa Maria church where between June to October you can hear the organ recital every morning.

If you are lucky enough to be in Menorca over the on 7th to 8th September then you must try to make it to the ‘Our Lady of Grace festivities’ – expect processions, horse racing and a very lively atmosphere…you’ll not be disappointed.

Check out our broad selection of luxury villas in Menorca.

If you haven’t yet been to Menorca then take it from us that you are missing one of the Mediterranean’s finest holiday locations. You’ll discover sandy coves, bright blue seas, traditional cultures and a fantastic gastronomic experience (especially if you enjoy seafood).

All of our villas in Menorca are in areas of cultural interest and beauty… and they all have their own private pools making them perfect for a family getaway.

Here’s three of our favourites and click here if you want to see all of our luxury Villas in Menorca.

Es Pi Verd, Son Parc (3 Bedrooms)

This spacious property is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac and is very close to a tranquil sandy beach and the island’s only golf course. You can enjoy woodland walks and you’re also close to all the amenities you could want.

Es Pi Verd, Son Parc (3 Bedrooms)

S’Alzinar, Ciutadella (7 Bedrooms)

Big group? No problem! This is one of our biggest villas in Menorca and can sleep up to 13. The property has recently been beautifully restored and believe it or not it features in ‘The Chronicles of Archduke Lluis Salvador of Austria’, written in 1890, as one of the finest buildings and landscapes in the Balearic Islands.

S'Alzinar, Ciutadella (7 Bedrooms)

Casa Piedra, Alaior (2 Bedrooms)

An extremely quaint villa that’s tucked away at the end of a country track amidst a quintessential rural Menorcan landscape of meadows and wild olive trees. You’re just 5km away from the island’s capital and a very short drive from unspoilt coves and beaches in the South of the island.

Short Walks in Menorca

Coastal Walk – Cala Galdana to Cala Macarella (Approx 30 minutes)

This walk begins at the steps almost opposite the Hotel Audax and heads west over the wooded cliffs to the pine-fringed cove of Cala Macarella.

The picturesque cove is enclosed by limestone cliffs with those on the western side containing 3 large caves. The sand at the Macarella is very white and the sea shelves very gradually which makes it doable for young and old. There is also a beach bar at the western end of the beach – a welcome sight on a hot day.

Be sure to check out Macarella's white sands (and take your swimwear!)

Coastal Walk – Santo Tomas to Biniguas (Approx 20 minutes)

From the restaurant Es Bruc, which is on the beach at the western end of Santo Tomas, turn right walking in front of the restaurant with the beach and the sea at your left-hand side?

Follow the path which although is not entirely smooth, should not be too difficult for the majority of people, and after approximately 100 metres you will see a rock formation a few metres off-shore. Here on the path you will come across a man made cave formed in the rock side.

The path continues, somewhat unevenly, around this man made cave and there is a dry stone wall at the right hand side. Beyond the wall you will see a lot of greenery, and this is the beginning of Biniguas beach where you might just spot a few naturalists bathing.

Coastal Walk – Cala Galdana to Cala Metjana (Approx 20 minutes)

This walk begins at the Placa de Na Gran which is off the road above the Hotel Sol Gavilanes where a clearly marked gate opens out onto a woodland path.

Follow this footpath for about 20 minutes until you see the white sandy beach which curves inland to meet the trees and is bounded by high woodland cliffs.

Cala Mitjana has a high limestone cliff to its eastern side, which overhangs the water and is full of caves. One such fissure can be entered by swimmers through a small crack, which permits access into a tunnel running 50 metres into the cliff; however this is only recommended for good swimmers. Above the caves is a natural arch into which steps have been carved by smugglers.

Coastal Walk – Son Parc to Cala Pudent (Approx 20 minutes)

A rocky path begins at a rough wooden gate in the wall to the left of the beach and crosses a rocky headland, before then skirting the back of a rocky cove from which it is an easy scramble down to the bay. Cala Pudent is a long inlet providing a safe anchorage for small boats, and the cove has a beach of soft white sand.

Mid length walks in Menorca

The Cypress Tree Walk (Approx 2km)

This is an easy walk especially for the non-energetic during which you will see country lanes, gardens and a cypress tree growing next to a farmhouse.

Start by driving to the village of San Climent on the PM704 road out of Mahon. From here take the road south leading to Canutells. Approximately 2km down this road turn left and park in a gateway 200 metres on the left. When parking please be careful not to obstruct the passage of other cars.

Almost opposite to the gateway is a country lane heading south toward the sea. Approximately 100m away you will see the tower of a fortified farmhouse on the skyline which was once a safe house for local farmers from marauding pirates, and just before this you will see the gardens of Santa Barbara and a cypress tree is growing up the pink walls of the farmhouse.

When you come across a Villa with a weather vane, continue following the lane which veers round to the right, and this will take you to a tarmac road which will eventually lead you to the village of Binidali.

Return to your car along the same route, or alternatively turn right onto the main road and walk back this way.

Coastal Walk – Santo Tomas to Son Bou (Approx 1 hour)

This walk starts at the Hotel Victoria Playa which is the large white hotel situated at the very end of the Santo Tomas beach.

There is a choice of either walking along the waters edge all the way, or alternatively taking the path just off the beach. Either walk is easily followed by aiming for the large towers of the Hotel Sol Milanos Pinguinos in the distance.

Walk – The Port of Maó to Cala Sant Esteve (Approx 4km)

The walk begins at the docks in the port of Maó and follows the coastline to Cala Figuera, continuing on to the village of Castell, where Cala Corb is located.

Long walks in Menorca

Countryside Walk – Ciutadella (Approx 6km)

This is a country stroll through quite lanes and across fields and is a rather flat walk with no hills.

Start by taking the Ciutadella road out of Mahon and watch out for the 6km road sign. Turn left just before the 7km sign and park your car near by a transformer. There is usually plenty of space.

Take the country lane to your right, which almost runs parallel with the main road, until you reach a fork with a very old stone built well in the centre. To the right of the well is an old stone on which is engraved “90 anyos”. Beside this stone in a shady glen, you will find another well made of Olive Wood.

Turn right up the lane beside the well, passing an old shed where you can see old farm instruments, and follow the easy access lane (sometimes stony) past the farmhouse of San Rafael on your right and Santa Elisabet down a lane on your left.

Approximately 500 metres past Santa Elizabet, you will arrive at a gate on the left with two large bedrock stones leading into it. Turn through these gates into a field and almost immediately the path veers left through a stone into the next field.

Follow this track across fields past old buildings and through the countryside to the farmhouse of Sa Cova. This path will take you right past the front door of the farmhouse. It is not normally occupied, however if you find someone there, simply ask permission to continue.

The path continues through two Menorcan Gates to a ‘T’ junction. Turn left and continue past the farmhouse Momple and the entrance to Binifaeli Nou on the left. Carry onto the next ‘T’ junction and turn left down another country lane back to your car.

Coastal Walk – Sa Mesquida to Es Grau (Approx 6km)

This is a rather exhausting walk unless you are extremely fit as it is constantly up and down hills, however it is well worth the effort. The entire walk is over rough paths and wild vegetation and almost all of it along the East Coast of Menorca.

Mesquida beach can be reached from the inland end of Mahon harbour on the PM7101 road to Cala Llonga. Approximately 2km along this road, turn left at the sign to Mesquida and park next to the beach.

Proceed to the end of the beach and follow an easily visible path to the left heading north along the coast. Keep on this path wherever possible, taking detours as they occur from time to time, but heading north keeping close to the coast.

Continue to the Punta de Sa Cudia where you will turn west to the village of Es Grau and a welcomed rest before you start the long walk back to Mesquida by the same outward route.

Part of this route is over the original Cami De Cavall road, which was the original coastal road constructed in 1331 and partially restored by the French during their occupation of Menorca in the 18th Century.

Coastal Walk – Punta Nati to Cala Morell (Approx 8km)

This walk follows a large part of Menorca’s northern coastline and passes through several coves until it reaches the small village of Cala Morell.

The walk begins in Punta Nati, which can be reached by a road that starts in northern Ciutadella, where cars can be left, and then simply follows the coastline the entire time. It passes through Cala Pous, Cala Morts and Sa Punta des Singles and covers rocky terrain over 50 metre high cliffs. After crossing the small S’Encletxa de S’Ull de Sol valley, the trail proceeds to an old stone wall and from there continues for four hours to Cala Morell.

Coastal Walk – Ets Alocs to Mount Mala (Approx 6km)

The walk begins in the rocky cove of Ets Alocs, on the outskirts of Ferreries. To reach it, take the C721 road and turn north at km 31.7 on the road to Ferreries towards the abandoned hermitage. The trail follows the coastline along flat land until it reaches the foot of Mount Mala. It passes through Cala Pilar, a broad sandy beach, and after skirting Point D’es Carregador, Playa del Mar, which is a large natural harbour made up of large fallen rocks. Mount Mala is located on the far side of the harbour.

For all your accommodation requirements please check out our portfolios of private villas in Menorca or call us to discuss your individual requirements with one of our consultants.

Sunday

Fruit and produce market held in the town of es Mercadal

Monday

Fruit and produce market Plaza del Mercat, Ciutadella
General market Placa de sa Creu, Sant Lluís
Fish market Mahon

Tuesday

Fruit and produce market Plaza del Mercat, Ciutadella
Fruit and produce market Placa Espanya, Ferreries
Fruit and produce market Mahon

Wednesday

Fruit and produce market Plaza del Mercat, Ciutadella
General market Placa de sa Creu, Sant Lluís
Fruit and Produce market Plaza de la Iglesia, es Migjorn Gran
Fish market Mahon

Thursday

Fruit and produce market Plaza del Mercat, Ciutadella
General market Calle Comerç and Avda. Pare Huguet, Alaior
Fish market Mahon

Friday

Fruit and produce market Plaza del Mercat, Ciutadella
General market Plaza de Es Born, Ciutadella
Fruit and produce market Placa Espanya, Ferreries
Fish market Mahon

Saturday

Visit pretty Mahon and its fabulous markets

Fruit and produce market Plaza del Mercat, Ciutadella
General market, Plaza de Es Born, Ciutadella
General market Placa Espanya, Ferreries
Fruit and produce market Mahon