Our visit to Menorca was brief but packed with beauty and charm. Menorca’s name derives from its size, contrasting it with nearby Mallorca. Its capital is Maó (more commonly known as Mahón), situated on the island’s eastern end, and it’s other major town is Ciutadella, situated on the island’s western end.
We started the day in Fornells, taking a dingy ride from our mooring ball to the dock, then caught a bus to Es Mercadel, the island’s central hub, and a second bus to the picturesque city of Ciutadella. Founded by the Carthaginians, this historic city has been a battleground and a jewel of the Mediterranean for centuries. We lost ourselves in its winding streets, admiring the white-washed buildings, the stunning 14th-century Catedral de Santa Maria, the peaceful Cloisters of Saint Augustine, and the small but beautiful courtyard of the Bishop’s Palace.
in Ciutadella that we popped
into during our walk
Catedral was stunning!
Bishop’s Palace
he historic center or Ciutadella
of the convent’s cathedral
Puerto de Ciutadella
After a delightful lunch by the port, we made our way to Mahón, the island’s capital, via another bus ride. This city is perched on a cliff overlooking the second-largest natural harbor in the world — a spot coveted by European powers throughout history. We wandered through the Old Town, soaked up the local culture, and enjoyed a visit to Mercat des Peix where we sampled some delicious pintxos and tapas.
main square in Mahón
On our way back to the boat, we strolled through Es Mercadel, where evening market stalls were just setting up, adding to the town’s quaint charm. Back in Fornells, we were treated to a lovely surprise — a live music rehearsal, perfectly paired with gelato as we watched the sun dip below the horizon.
wandered amongst street stalls selling local goods
practicing for their evening show
As night fell, we made plans for our next adventure: a 24-hour crossing from Menorca to Barcelona.
