Live Like a Local in Menorca

In the group of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Menorca is the unassuming middle sibling. It doesn’t have any major cities like the big island of Mallorca nor can it compare to the legendary party scene of smaller Ibiza, but Menorca’s appeal lies in what it lacks. There are no big-name hotel chains, zero celebrity DJs, and a limited number of cruise ships allowed to port. In exchange, Menorca boasts the most virgin beaches and unspoiled nature.

“More so than the other islands, Menorca has made a deliberate effort to limit development and protect its natural beauty,” shares Brian, an Origin travel writer currently living on the island. While Menorca may no longer be considered a secret to travelers, the conscious choice to prioritize sustainability and preservation over mass tourism has paid off, and a limit on development has put a natural cap on the number of tourists.

Menorca is rightfully famous for its unparalleled beaches, but Brian maintains that the best way to enjoy the island is from the water. “Anyone can rent a small boat without a license, so you can visit otherwise inaccessible coves,” he shares. If you need something a little bigger, reserve a boat with a captain who can take you to Menorca’s hidden gems. “Sitting on the beach is great, but being on the water is indescribably better.”

You don’t need a boat with a motor to reach the sea caves on the southern coast. Just grab an oar for your kayak or stand-up paddleboard and, after a decent arm workout, you’ll be able to paddle into massive limestone caverns that seem to glow with an iridescent blue from beneath the surface.

Menorca prides itself on “KM 0” cuisine, meaning the ingredients at many restaurants come right from the island. Whether it’s organically grown produce or the fresh catch of the day, you can taste the difference when local products are used. The most emblematic dish is caldereta de llagosta, a lobster stew so good that even the royal family travels to Menorca to enjoy it.

As a vestige of its British colonial past, gin is still the official spirit of the island. Forget the run-of-the-mill G and T and order a pomada, a refreshing mix of Menorca-made gin with lemonade. Should you choose—and Brian recommends that you do choose—to drink it in slushie form, just ask for it granizada.

Menorca is peppered with old farmhouses converted into rustic countryside guest homes, but for a quick trip, Brian recommends staying in the largest town of Mahón. The quaint bed and breakfast Cristine Bedfor is in the heart of the city but includes a completely enclosed garden and pool that create the illusion of being out in the country.

Not only is Cristine Bedfor one of the most charming boutique hotels in Mahón, it was also recognized by the local government for its commitment to sustainability; you won’t find any plastic on the premises, the furniture is made with upcycled materials, and meals are prepared using locally sourced ingredients.

Origin can plan your own personalized trip through Menorca and the Mediterranean. Chat with a travel curator below to get started.