Where to stay in Menorca

Menorca or Minorca (from Latin: Insula Minor, lit. 'smaller island', later Minorica) is one of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea belonging to Spain. Its name derives from its size, contrasting it with nearby Mallorca (Majorca).

The harbour at Maó, the island capital, is the second largest natural deep water port in the world - the largest being Pearl Harbour. The whole island is a European Biological Reserve and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve aiming to preserve environmental areas. More than 75% of the territory is protected. You can watch some of the last turtles of the Mediterranean, birds and protected species. The main tourist area is along the south coast and includes the resorts of Santo Tomas, Son Bou, Cala en Porter, Binibeca, Punta Prima and S'Algar.

Getting in

Menorca Airport (MAH) has frequent flights from mainland Spain, from Palma on Mallorca and from Ibiza. In season there are many regular flights (mostly by budget carriers) from the UK, Germany and elsewhere in Europe, but these become sparse in winter. The airport has the usual facilities including car hire. It's 5 km southwest of Maó / Mahon the capital, with a bus every 30 min or so, plus taxis and pre-booked transfer shuttles. Maó ferry terminal is on Moll de Ponent, a short walk to city centre, and this is also the landing point for cruise ships.

Getting around

Taxis are a popular form of transport for those not looking to move as much. They can be somewhat expensive if using them a lot, so be careful! A taxi can be booked using Radio Taxis, which is an English speaking service. Call +34 971 367 111 and state your current location and destination. There are numerous agents and companies, both international and local, specialising in car hire in Menorca - both at the airport and in resorts - although it may be important to organise it from home before you arrive to avoid disappointment during peak periods.

Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0; excerpted.