For many people, Menorca is a place to get away from the rush of the city and enjoy a peaceful, relaxing holiday “far from the bustling crowd”. That’s what makes Menorca the ideal holiday destination because, even though it’s a relatively small island, it has much to offer its visitors.
If you love nature, then there are plenty of stunning views and places to visit where you can see local wild life, migrating birds and more. If you’re a “sun worshipper”, then Menorcan beaches are just what you need. And if you’re a history buff, the island has lots for you to discover.
In this short guide to the area around Ciutadella, I want to give you a brief introduction to one of the island’s most fascinating locations – the ancient city of Ciutadella and its surroundings.
High Cliffs and Breath-taking Beaches
For many holiday makers, the area around Cala Galdana on the south-western shores of the island is their favorite place to stay. As well as playing host to many rental villas that are perfect for couples, families and groups of friends, the area is the perfect jumping-off spot for some exciting adventures into Menorca.
If you like walking and spectacular views, take a leisurely 30-minute stroll along the cliff tops to the Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta beaches. The views over the sea are breathtaking, and, when you reach the beaches, set into small inlets and surrounded by cliffs thick with foliage – you can sit back and enjoy the astounding view.
Magical Ciutadella
Further up the coast sits Menorca’s original capital city – Ciutadella. It was the island’s capital until 1708 when the British, who occupied the island, moved the capital to Mahon because of the strategic importance of its harbor.
Today, Ciutadella is still a working fishing port and retains much of the architecture and character from its past.
There is much to see and do in this picturesque city. In fact, in order for this short guide to Ciutadella to cover everything there is to see and do, it would almost become a guide book in its own right!
Must Dos in Ciutadella
If you are staying in the Cala Galdana area, then getting to Ciutadella is pretty easy. We recommend hiring a car for a day (it’s just a 40-minute drive) or taking one of the many guided tours from Cala Galdana.
However you get there, be sure to explore Placa d’es Born, which was, during the days when the island was occupied by the Moors, a military parade ground. The buildings surrounding the square are impressive nineteenth-century structures and the square itself is bustling with life and many street cafes. In the centre is an obelisk commemorating the people who died when fighting the Turks in 1558.
No guide to Ciutadella would be complete without recommending a visit to the magnificent thirteenth-century Gothic cathedral or a visit to the colourful and vibrant Placa Libertat covered market.
The city is a labyrinth of passages, alleys and unexpected views. If you have the time, spend a couple of hours just walking around – you never know what hidden jewels you’ll discover.
Finally, if you’re visiting on 23 June, be prepared for the Dia de Sant Joan, the island’s most important fiesta. Magnificent black Menorcan horses strut through the crowds during this colourful and vibrant festival.
Brenda Jaaback, Managing Director of Bartle Holidays, is a renowned Menorca expert who personally selects the finest properties for her clients. From its history to its people and from its wildlife to its cuisine, no secret of the island remains hidden to her. For anyone looking for information on the island, like a guide to Ciutadella, Brenda is the go-to person. 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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