Love at first site

As we peered out of our window from the plane, we could tell that Menorca was unlike any other island in the Mediterranean. It’s rocky coast and turquoise waters drew us in. The green landscape was speckled with farmhouses. It was seemingly untouched and felt like a Mediterranean secret. As we landed and stepped out into the warm sun, we knew we were about to embark on a unique and special holiday.

Menorca is a small island 250 miles east of Barcelona and part of the Balearic islands of Spain. In 1993, the entire island was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for the community’s dedication to the preservation of its culture, flora and fauna, and sustainable urban and rural development practices. It is less visited compared to its big sister, Mallorca, and popular step-sister, Ibiza largely due to its stance against Franco throughout his regime. Franco defunded the island in his best attempt to punish the little island, but the result was a culturally and environmentally rich paradise. Thanks Franco! Menorca managed to develop quality tourism while prioritizing the protection of its environment. The best of both worlds in our book.

As always, when traveling, we’re looking to support great businesses that work to care for the environment, people, and minimize the impacts of tourism. Not so hard to find in Menorca. We have compiled a few of our top tips and favorite spots on the island. Looking for a responsible, sustainable hotel accommodation? Keep reading. Looking for places to a traditional meal with organic, local ingredients? We have just the thing. Want to learn about our favorite hidden beaches and how to access them? We'll hook you up with that too.

Thanks for being here. We are excited to share our guide to sustainable travel in Menorca with you.

Where to Sleep

Unlike many other islands, you’re not likely to reserve a room or hotel right next to the beach. Many of the best beaches require a bit of hiking, because – preservation! You’re more likely to stumble out of your hotel room onto a vineyard, olive orchard, or charming urban street that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. In addition, you might want a car to get around the island to explore all of its many gems. We suggest dividing time between a city/village and the countryside. Menorca is full of incredible accommodations that you are sure to love. Here are just a few to get you started.

Hotel Ses Sucreres

Hotel Ses Sucreres is a simple, cozy guesthouse located in the town of Ferreries. We found this to be an ideal location as it gives you a little taste of typical village life in Menorca and it has great access to the road that leads to the island's best beaches.

You’ll feel right at home in this serene and welcoming space tucked up a cute alleyway, just steps away from the main plaza. Stephanie will show you to your room in this restored 1844 manor, decorated with ecological materials and vintage furniture. Each room is as unique as each of its guests. These guys are art enthusiasts and artists in their own right having created this little masterpiece in the heart of Ferreries. You'll want to take some time to chill out in the garden with a tea or glass of organic wine before heading out to explore the island.

Sustainability practices we love at Ses Sucreres:

• This six-room guesthouse was restored using a sustainable energy model in mind.

• Solar power is used for electricity, a fireplace is used to heat the common areas and solar lights are placed throughout the garden.

• Seasonal and organic products are sourced from local merchants and served for breakfast.

• No single-use plastic here! You will find refillable, ecological amenities in your room and biodegradable picnic materials.

• Special emphasis on social economic responsibility – they're keeping the money local.

• Remain open year-round to support de-seasonalisation.

• Selected by the Minorcan consell insular (island public government) as a certified Biosphere Reserve Hotel

Menorca Experimental

A mere 20 minutes from Mahon, sits Menorca Experimental. When you’ve gotten your urban island fix, it’s time to kick your feet up with an extraordinary cocktail at this 19th century former farmhouse. The Parisian Experimental Group, known for it’s cocktail bars and contemporary hotels, lovingly restored the property with the help of designer Dorothée Meilichzon.

We love this hotel for those looking for a luxurious, yet casual and fun accommodation in the countryside.

Sustainability practices we love at Menorca Experimental:

• Water-wise practices throughout – grey water system, water-flow reducers, low water-use landscape

• Organic food from the garden and local, organic wine

• Saline pools

• Organic toiletries and cleaning products

• Plastic free, zero-waste practices

• Restoration, furniture, and art by local craftsman

Hotel Hevresac

Hotel Hevresac is the sister hotel of Ses Sucreres, owned by Stephanie’s partner, Ignasi. This hotel is restored from a 17th century home and is located in the capital port city of Mahón. Mahón is the island’s largest town and provides a great jumping off point for your day trips around Menorca.

Similar to Ses Sucreres, you will feel right at home in this friendly, modern hotel. The style is original, minimalist, eclectic and boasts natural building materials and lots of light. Bonus for your stay at either Hevresac or Ses Sucreres: the owners are oozing with good information on what's happening around the island and plenty of local gems to check out.

Sustainability practices we love at Hotel Hevresac:

• The hotel preserves energy by using natural cork insulation and aerothermal energy

• It features ecological products and amenities, locally sourced, with a focus on fair-trade practices

Llucasaldent Gran Menorca

Llucasladent Gran Menorca is an adults-only, agroturismo hotel on the island of Menorca. Gaze over its expansive view of grapevines from the infinite pool or take a quiet walk through the olive tree grove. This hotel has found a way to perfectly combine Menorcan tradition with modern style and all the amenities you would want on your holiday.

Good Trips Tip* After spending your day in one of the two swimming pools, head up to the shady terrace, order up a glass of vino, and sit back on one of the sun beds. A Spanish siesta will be waiting for you.

Sustainability practices that we love at Llucasaldent Gran Menorca:

• A private orchard and vegetable garden to serve up delicious, seasonal meals.

• Solar panels provide the entire farm with electricity and well water is used for irrigating the property.

• The landscape features native plants and a water-wise design which eliminates the need for excess watering

• A commitment to the local community by only sourcing local and kilometer zero products

Where to eat

Let’s be honest. One of the best parts about travel is the food. Are we right? Menorca has some wonderful hidden gems around the island and the local food is outstanding. The island is mostly devoid of food chains and sustainably sourced food is easier to come by than not. FUN FACT: Menorca is the birthplace of world renown mayo! Originally known as Salsa Mahonesa, it hails from the bustling port city of Mahon and was introduced to the global market via the French following their occupation in the 18th century.

Here’s a smattering of our favorite restaurants from our recent travels that prioritize sustainable practices such as local, seasonal and organic ingredients. Each are run by friendly owners, with incredible service and provide a dining experience you’re unlikely to forget.

First stop on the island was El Romero in Mahón–the first restaurant on the island to obtain the Menorca Biosphere Reserve brand. We felt welcomed as family from the moment we arrived. The restaurant is small, tastefully decorated and has maintained its local, island vibes. The restaurant is located across the street from the town’s fish market, only steps away from the port. Kilometer zero, people...that's what we're talking about. The menu changes daily, depending on the local catch and any specials that may be available in the market in the morning.

Good Trips Tip* Ask Francesca and Fabiano for their recommendation or special of the day.

We washed down our lunch with a couple of glasses of local, natural wine. We were tempted by the rest of the wine list, which features various organic, natural and biodynamic wines from Menorca and the other islands. However, we opted for an afternoon espresso instead, enjoying the shady terrace.

El Romero is casual with a touch of elegance. You’ll notice unique art hanging on the walls, which are made by an artist in Ciutadella. The gallery features eclectic pieces representing island life, made from recycled plastics and other wastes found in the sea.

Let them know we said hi and we cannot wait to return!

Note: Vegetarian and vegan options are available

Es Tast de na Silvia was on our list before arriving to Menorca. Located in Ciutadella–the former capital of Menorca and now better known as the religious center of the island–and is tucked in one of the city’s charming, pedestrian streets. You’ll notice it by its warm lighting and inviting scent guiding you through the door. You’ll probably be greeted by Toni’s exuberant welcome as he shows you to your table.

Good Trips Tip* request a table close to the open kitchen so you can watch Silvia and her team work their magic.

The restaurant’s ingredients are locally sourced, using only seasonal products, while establishing close relationships with the organic farmers. The recipes are creative, unique and leave you simultaneously wanting to ask for seconds and drooling over the anticipation of the next dish. If you find yourself waiting for the next plate, be sure to take a look at the wine list. It is an extensive collection of local Menorcan wines as well as natural and organic selections from other regions in Spain.

Above all, we admire the commitment to top quality, high level of service and sustainability throughout the entire dining experience. We were blown away by the small details sprinkled in throughout our evening, but we will save some of those surprises for you for when you visit.

We love this restaurant for a romantic night out in town. So after a full day at the beach, head back to your hotel, get cleaned up, dressed up and head out for an experience to remember.

Notes: Book in advance as Silvia’s slow-food cooking is well-known. Any special dietary needs can be met. Be sure to inform the restaurant of your specific needs or request in advance.

Bambu Menorca is more than a trendy restaurant in the fishing town of Binibeca. The owner, Ben, is a foodie who loves to travel the world by motorbike. He saw a need for a different and unique dining concept on the island and Bambu was born. From its natural building materials to the various chill-out zones with fresh flowers and waterfalls, it oozes a sense of zen and relaxation (no wifi on purpose, folks).

The menu itself boasts tasty cocktails and fun recipes with an Asian flare. All ingredients are sourced locally and organic when possible and minimizing food waste at this plastic free restaurant is a top priority. On an island that almost exclusively serves local spanish recipes, Restaurant Bambu, will be something different. The restaurant only employs locals, so make sure to hit them up for recommendations while on the island. Our waitress recommended some of her favorite beaches, which ended up making the top of our list as well (read about these below). If you run into Ben, the owner, make sure to get some stories from his incredible life––like introducing sliced bread to Romania, raising baby gorillas by hand, or his world travels by motorcycle.

Good Trips Tip* Book your table on the upstairs terrace around sunset for jaw-dropping sea views and spectacular evenings on the island.

Shopping

Did you know that nearly everything on the island, has been crafted on the island. Being ostrisized from the rest of the country during the Franco regime instilled pride and self sufficiency in the people of Menorca which has been keeping them real all of these years. Master craftsman and artisans abound and you’ll be hard-pressed to find cheap tourist tchotchkes to take home. More points for Menorca in responsible travel practices…go local is second nature to them. Islanders are known for their talents in crafting leather goods, textiles, shoes, artwork, ceramics, zero waste self-care products, and the list goes on….

Where to beach

Menorca is a well-protected natural paradise. Please be conscious of the impact of your actions as a visitor and the footprint you leave behind.

The island of Menorca has two primary zones: the north and the south. The locals check the weather apps and decide where to head to the beach, depending on the wind. Windy in the south? Head to the north. High winds at the northern beaches? Head towards the south.

The northern landscape is more rocky and rugged, identifiable by its reddish sand, dark rocks and virgin beaches. Because many of the beaches and coves are not accessible by car, you’ll find them less crowded and the nearby areas less developed.

Our favorite beach in the northern part of the island is Cala Pregonda. This precious beach is accessible by foot, about a 40 minute walk from the nearest parking. You can find the parking by following the signs to Binimel-la and park in the free parking area. The walk is about two kilometers on rocky terrain. Please note, there is no shade along the way. Once you arrive to Cala Pregonda, you will notice lots of families sunbathing and enjoying the gentle tide. If you still have a bit of energy left in you, hike up the hill and continue on down the path towards the next part of the cove for a quieter, less crowded beach experience, toward Escullar de Pregonda. The water is crystal clear and spotted with tiny little islands, accessible by swimming. Pack your snorkel!

You won't find crowded beach bars, rows of lounge chairs or other services...a welcome change from so many European beaches. What that means for you as a responsible traveler and beachgoer–be sure to leave the beach cleaner than you found it. There are no trash cans, restrooms, or beach bars available so pack a zero-waste picnic, grab your umbrella and enjoy. It’s just you, the beach and the gorgeous Menorcan sunshine.

The beaches in the southern part of the island are highly picturesque. Menorca’s dreamiest, southern beaches are only accessible by foot. These sweet spots are hidden in small coves and boast white sand, clear water and that true sense of peace you’re craving while on holiday. Cala Macarelleta tops the list as our favorite beach on the island.

How to access our favorite beaches in the south of Menorca.

Starting point from Cala Galdana. Cala Galdana is a large cove, great for families and close to many restaurants, shops, and other beachy services. From Cala Galdana, head towards Cala Macarella. It is about a 40 minute walk on a dirt trail with the cicadas in the trees singing along the way. Be prepared for some spectacular coastal views as you go.

Once you arrive at Cala Macarella, take some time to refill your water, grab a snack or use the restroom at the restaurant, Cafeteria Bar Susi. There are some nice shady areas at Cala Macarella if you choose to stop and chill out for a while.

Next stop: Cala Macarelleta. You can access the next, smaller cala by foot (about 10 to 15 minutes walk), by kayak or stand-up paddleboard (rentals available in Cala Macarella), or by swimming. There are also small, private boats for hire if needed to access with small children or other individuals not able to access the cala through physical exertion.

Regardless of how you arrive, the journey is worth it, we promise. Remember, there are no umbrellas, restaurants, or even trash cans available on Cala Macarelleta, so come prepared. It is an unforgettable experience.

Cala Mitjaneta was a nice surprise. The small cove is a short walk from Cala Mitjana, a white sand beach, hugged by limestone cliffs and offering an inviting open sea. There are restrooms close by, slightly behind the beach, so be sure to stop there if needed before continuing down the trail. About a five minute walk will lead you to a beautiful, cliffside swimming cove. There were a few trees offering shade, but not sand, so it is not necessary to track your umbrella here. Stake out a spot on top of the cliff and head down to the clear waters to cool off with a swim. You can watch cliff divers across the way for entertainment or bring a book and some snacks to pass the time.

Final thoughts

What can we say? We're smitten with this tiny island. It's one of those places you almost don't want to tell people about for fear it will get too popular and change. But we also firmly believe in the benefits of good tourism and supporting these small business owners and the local economy the right way. We know you do too.

Have any other questions about this little love affair of ours? Let us know. Don't forget that Good Trips travelers get incentives when booking at our partnered hotels. Don't forget to tell them we sent you.

With ♥ – The Good Trips Team