Menorca is an island of outstanding and extremely varied natural beauty. One of the most enjoyable ways to see the island is by packing a picnic and heading out to one of the many picturesque spots. No matter where your Menorca villa is located, you will never be too far from an area to enjoy a spot of lunch as you take in your surroundings and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park
Situated to the north-east of the island, this superb park is an area of great beauty with all kinds of colourful flora and fungi. It is also a bird watcher’s paradise, as 303 different species of bird can be found here (a mix of residents and migrants). This includes herons, ducks, starlings, swallows and cranes, so be sure to pack your binoculars. The area stretches nearly 165,000 hectares, making it the largest wetland park in the Balearic Islands.
Consider packing up a delicious picnic at your villa before a leisurely bike ride by way of Pont dels Anglesos to the park. You are then spoilt for choice for scenic spots to enjoy your food.
Es Freginal Park
No trip to Menorca is complete without a day exploring the enchanting capital city of Mahón. After working up an appetite wandering around the lively shopping streets, why not stock up on delicious local cheese and other snacks and head to Es Freginal Park? In the heart of the city but away from the crowds, this beautiful park has pristine grounds and colourful flower displays that create a calming atmosphere.
You may get lucky as the park also stages a number of music festivals each year (or you could be clever and do some prior research). This includes the excellent annual Jazz Festival, which attracts highly talented musicians from around the world – a great soundtrack for an enjoyable afternoon picnic and stroll around the park.
Cala en Turqueta Beach
People come to Menorca for the beaches, and for good reason! There are dozens of spectacular sandy beaches around the island, with Cala en Turqueta on the south coast being one of the most picturesque. The idyllic beach has a vast stretch of unspoilt white sand, inviting shallow clear waters and gorgeous views. One top tip is to head to the beach in the evening, where you can enjoy the sunset with a glass of champagne and miss the crowds who flock to the beach earlier in the day.
Take the scenic route with a stroll along the coast on the Camí de Cavalls. This ancient path encircles the entire island, so you are never too far from it regardless of where your Menorca villa is situated. It is a major tourist attraction and an amazing way to see the island’s varied terrain and stunning views out to sea.
These are three of the finest picnic spots, but there are dozens more as it is such a beautiful island. By booking a Menorca villa instead of into a hotel, it provides you with the flexibility to eat whenever and wherever you like. Stock up on snacks, local produce and a bottle of bubbly and head out into the great outdoors for a highly enjoyable picnic.
Brenda Jaaback, Managing Director of Bartle Holidays, is a renowned Menorca expert. From its history to its people and from its wildlife to its cuisine – no secret of the island remains hidden to her. Personally selecting the finest properties for her clients, Brenda is the go-to person for anyone planning a relaxing holiday in a Menorca villa. 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.
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