Scouting Out Places to Visit in Menorca

A memorable holiday involves more than sandy beaches and savory food. Historical sites may add an unexpected educational dimension to your trip, and give you a reprieve from the hot sun. There is no shortage of places to visit in Menorca, and to make sure you tap into the full potential of your holiday to this unsung Balearic Island, you’ll want to check out at least a few of them. So wash off your sunscreen, change out of your bathing suit, and get your hands on a map of the island.

A true “Menorca must” is to travel to the top of the Toro Mountain which, at more than 300 meters above sea level, is the island’s highest elevation. Here you’ll find the Sanctuary of the Toro Virgin, held by generations of Menorcans as their spiritual center. Sometime in the 8th century, a band of merchants ascended the mountain, only to discover a statue of the Virgin Mary. Later, in 1670, an ornate church and monastery was erected at the site as homage to the statue. You won’t want to miss out on a guided tour of the grounds, and you’ll want to allow time at the end to enjoy the panoramic views of the island from atop the summit.

You won’t want to leave Menorca without paying a visit to the Fortress of Isabel II. This grandiose structure, called La Mola by the Spanish, was built in the mid 19th century as a response to British threats to retake the island. The British, then at odds with the French, were disputing naval control over the Mediterranean Sea, and had plans to use Menorca as a defensive post against their enemy. The Spanish erected La Mola as a means of intimidating the Brits from coming, and if you visit it, you’ll understand why they backed off. The fortress casts a menacing presence over the jagged cliffs near the town of Mahon.

La Mola and Toro Mountain are only a small sample of the places to visit in Menorca. On a rainy day, consider one of the many museums on the island, or check out the beautiful and historical churches, many of which you may enter with a guided tour.