Why Menorca is the perfect holiday hotspot to visit in Spain

I GAZE out from the cliff-side bar drinking in the sweeping views of the Mediterranean from my rocky perch.

The Cova d’en Xoroi on the southern coast of Menorca is one of the most stunning spots in the world for a night cap.

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Hallways precariously sprawl through craggy caves and rustic terraces balance on the mountainside.

As I sip on my Pomada, Menorca’s traditional cocktail made with local gin and lemonade, I can see nothing but sand-coloured rock and miles of ocean shimmering in the sun.

Mallorca and Ibiza may be famous for their partying — but from this bar, carved into the cliffside under the orange glow of the sunset, it’s easy to see why Menorca is the real crown jewel of the Balearic Islands.

While its sisters are known for fun, this island boasts beautiful beaches, sunsets to die for and restaurants where you’ll eat like a king.

Just half the size of the Isle of Wight, it could easily claim the title of Spain’s most laidback island with many parts left wild and untouched.

And if you do still fancy your party fix, the cliff-side Cova d’en Xoroi bar transforms into a nightclub for cave clubbers in high summer.

It’s also easier to get to now with the launch this month of new flights from Gatwick from low-cost airline Vueling.

While the whole island only measures around 30 miles from west to east, Menorca has more than 125 miles of coastline making it a great bucket-and-spade destination.

For those itching for adventure, there’s plenty on offer, from snorkelling, hiking and biking to kayaking, fishing and boating.

We opted to walk part of the Camí de Cavalls — the 115-mile trail that circumnavigates the whole island in 20 way-marked sections — and we were not disappointed.

With breathtaking sights around every turn, it’s no surprise that people come every year especially to walk the full trail and soak up every inch of the island.

And after all that hiking, you’re going to want to tuck into a decent meal. You won’t need to search high and low for good grub as Menorca was awarded the 2022 European Region of Gastronomy, so pretty much anywhere you choose to eat is likely to be great.

My first meal on the island, at Restaurant Aquarium, ended up being the best of the trip with a sea-themed menu of fresh shrimp, tuna and delicious local fish.

The waterside restaurant is in Ciutadella, a sleepy old town on the west of the island that’s home to the annual fiesta of Sant Joan — a June festival with a bizarre ritual that sees a local boy parade around the town with a live, full-sized ram on his back.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing trip then give the festival a miss and head to luxury hotel, Torralbenc, to sample some of the local wines on a lavish tour and tasting.

I’m a wine novice, but after a lesson spread across the 70 hectares of stunning vineyards and olive groves (and a couple of glasses of red) I felt like an expert.

And if it’s shopping you’re into, the island’s still got you covered.

Menorca is home to a world famous, stylish shoe boutique that is very popular among major celebrities.

Kate Moss and Angelina Jolie have both been spotted in local footwear brand, Pretty Ballerina.

If you fancy walking in their footsteps, you can splash out on your own super-comfortable pair at the trendy shop in the old town, from £119.

I’d rather spend my dosh on Pomadas, though!

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