Our Guide To The 13 Best Things To Do In Menorca In 2024
Menorca is Mallorca's tranquil and authentic sister, offering much to discover. The distance between the two islands is approximately 69 km, and you can access Menorca via the quickest route or by taking one of the several daily ferries from Mallorca's coastal town of Alcudia to Ciutadella, situated on the western side of Menorca—the second-fastest option.
When visiting a new place, it's always important to conduct thorough research to truly experience the authentic side of the island, and we are here to help you with this list we have carefully curated after much trial and error. Read on for our guide to the 13 best things to do in Menorca in 2024.
1. Wine tasting at Bodegas Torralbenc
The Sidercome group acquired the Torralbenc estate in 2005 with the aim of developing an agricultural and wine cellar project. The rehabilitation project commenced in 2011, as nothing remained of the old house but ruins and barren land. The project was completed in 2013, the same year the highly acclaimed hotel opened its doors. Today, Torralbenc's vineyards encompass 14 hectares of the estate's total 70 hectares.
Torralbenc has emerged from the challenge of taking on the legacy of others, rebuilding and reclaiming it. In addition to enjoying an exceptional wine-tasting experience, visitors can indulge in a gastronomic adventure at their restaurant, Torralbenc.
2. Wine tasting at Bodegas Binifadet Menorca
Situated in the southeast of the island, in the town of Sant Lluìs, lies Bodegas Binifadet Menorca, a 40-year-old family-run vineyard and winery. In 2004, Bodegas Binifadet Menorca introduced their inaugural wines and opened its doors to the public, offering guided tours and wine tastings. Over the years, the business expanded, and by 2011, they also began providing guests with gastronomic experiences. The vineyards are divided into numerous mini plots, shielded from the Tramuntana wind by dry stone walls—a distinctive feature of the Menorcan countryside.
The island's Mediterranean climate contributes to unique conditions, creating a cooler environment compared to other islands in the Balearic archipelago. This climatic distinction plays a pivotal role in producing fresher, more aromatic, lighter, and more delicate wines. The winery is closed during winter season and is set to welcome the public again starting May 2024.
3. Wine and cheese tasting at Hotel Hort Sant Patrici
The intimate 8-bedroom boutique Hotel Hort Sant Patrici is nestled on a beautiful estate in the Menorcan countryside, near the picturesque village of Ferreries. The historic house, "Ca Na Xini," is surrounded by exquisite gardens and expansive vineyards. These vineyards, cultivating Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah grapes, yield exceptional wines. The estate is also renowned for crafting the well-known Mahon-Menorca cheese with DOP designation, overseen by their skilled master cheesemakers.
To enhance the guest experience, the hotel features a splendid restaurant specializing in Menorcan cuisine. Additionally, a gourmet shop awaits, offering a curated selection of our cheeses and wines for sale, along with typical products crafted in Menorca. If you wish to spend some time on this beautiful estate, be sure to partake in their wine and cheese tasting experience.
4. Farm visit at Subaida Menorca
In the central and rural part of Menorca lies Subaida, a 350-hectare farm offering six distinct experiences and guided tours suitable for both kids and adults. This family-owned estate, seemingly frozen in time, has preserved the cheese-making tradition passed down from their ancestors, spanning six generations. The farm is committed to total self-sufficiency and cultivates seasonal fruits and vegetables. Children can visit the farm to interact with and feed animals such as cows, pigs, and more, while adults can enjoy a wine and cheese tasting.
5. Horse riding at Finca Son Felip
Son Felip is one of two farms that are part of an agricultural project spanning approximately 1000 hectares located north of Ciutadella, between the emblematic beaches of Algaiarens and Cala Pilar on the island of Menorca. The farm produces traditional foods such as wheat, extra virgin olive oil, almonds, honey, melons, and watermelons, and engages in the raising of cows, pigs, sheep, and chickens.
In addition, Son Felipe also houses purebred Menorca horses, offering horseback riding excursions along the Camí de Cavalls trail that encircles the island. This activity is perfect for those who want to discover the wildest part of Menorca in a unique way.
6. Oyster tasting at Oysters Menorca
As big oyster fans we were excited to discover this one. Situated in the historical center of Mahón on Carrer de L’Església, Oysters Menorca awaits your discovery as the first official oyster shop in Menorca. They have collaborated with World of Oysters, an association of oyster farmers, to provide you with meticulously sourced, selected, graded, and checked oysters, ensuring the highest quality. By merging premium Dutch products with the Spanish quality of life, they proudly offer a diverse selection of six unique oysters. If you're an oyster fan, this is an experience you won't want to miss.
7. Sunset drink at Cova D'en Xoroi Menorca
Situated on the south coast of the island of Menorca, near Cala en Porter, Cova D'en Xoroi is a small cave in the mountain that faces the glistening and magical Mediterranean Sea. During the day, this idyllic place serves aperitifs, and at night, it transforms into a nightclub known by reputation to be the best in Menorca. One thing is certain—this highly appreciated and well-known place offers magical views, whether it be during the morning glistening hours or the golden hours at night.
8. Visit the art center Hauser & Wirth
In 2021, new life was breathed into the outbuildings of a disused 18th-century hospital to create an art center. Located in the natural environment of Illa del Rei, an island in the port of Mahon, the gardens surrounding the gallery buildings are beautifully landscaped and feature a variety of native plants adapted to the Mediterranean climate. The center also hosts the Cantina restaurant, managed by the Binifadet restaurant and winery, where local and seasonal products are served. On weekends, Hauser & Wirth host creative workshops, perfect for kids or adults looking to step away from the sun for some time and unleash their creativity with their hands.
9. Visit the handmade ceramics shop by Blanca Madruga
Since 2015, the oasis of Blanca Madruga's ceramicist studio has been situated in the center of Mahón. Blanca Madruga, a self-taught ceramicist, creates unique ceramic pieces with surprising textures, natural colors, and organic shapes. Originally holding a degree in Law and humanities, clay captured her heart and soul years ago for the first time in Ibiza. She has recently opened the doors to a new space where the idea is to conduct workshops, fostering connections, experimentation, and sharing through clay.
10. Host a event with amazing food from HUMŌ
HUMŌ is a finca and farm that began hosting events and workshops in September. Chef Gabri is an inspiring cook who specializes in smoked food.
11. Sunset drink at Artrutx Sea Club
Situated in a privileged position on the southwest coast of Menorca, near one of the island's lighthouses, is Artrutx Sea Club. The magical elegance of the lighthouse, paired with breathtaking views of the sea and Mallorca, along with live music throughout the day and night, makes this place a must-visit.
12. Visit the highly rated fish restaurant Cafè Balear
An unmissable restaurant situated in the port of Ciutadella, Menorca, specializes in a cuisine centered around fish and seafood. All dishes feature freshly caught fish and seafood from their own boat, Rosa Santa Primera. This restaurant, managed by the same family for three generations, offers a menu rooted in the classic gastronomy of the island, featuring specialties like lobster or Menorcan seafood pica-pica. During the high season, queues can be lengthy, so it's advisable to make reservations well in advance (and aim for a terrace table by the water).
13. Visit the bakery Pigalle Panaderia
Pigalle Panaderia is an artisan bakery that crafts bread in a natural way, using sustainable and raw ingredients. This bakery is an unmissable destination in the town of Mahón. Be sure to visit in the morning and relish the comforting aroma of freshly baked croissants, brioches, and homemade breads.
