Balearic Islands • Spain like a local https://spainlikealocal.es/category/destinations-in-spain/balearic-islands/ Invaluable advice of locals from every corner of Spain Tue, 17 Oct 2023 04:58:02 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://spainlikealocal.es/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-favicon-new1-32x32.jpg Balearic Islands • Spain like a local https://spainlikealocal.es/category/destinations-in-spain/balearic-islands/ 32 32 What to eat in Mallorca? The traditional foods you can’t live without trying https://spainlikealocal.es/what-to-eat-in-mallorca-traditional-foods/ Tue, 17 Oct 2023 04:57:57 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=26462 Mallorca, a beautiful Balearic island, offers a variety of delicious foods that are part of its culinary tradition. If you are wondering what to eat in Mallorca check out these …

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Mallorca, a beautiful Balearic island, offers a variety of delicious foods that are part of its culinary tradition. If you are wondering what to eat in Mallorca check out these traditional foods you must try.

1. Ensaimada, the most traditional food from Mallorca

This pastry is one of Mallorca’s most iconic desserts. It’s made from flour, water, sugar, eggs, dough and lard, creating a flaky and sweet treat.

In Spain, you will recognize when a flight comes from Mallorca for the people carrying them in a cardboard special box.

What to eat in Mallorca
What to eat in Mallorca? / www.bonviveur.es

2. What to eat in Mallorca? Sobrasada

A soft spread made from pork. It is seasoned with paprika and spices and people normally have it on bread.

What to eat in Mallorca if you are vegetarian? Tumbet

A vegetarian dish made with aubergine, peppers and potatoes, all roasted with tomato and garlic.

what to eat in mallorca
What to eat in Mallorca? / www.bonviveur.es

3. Coca de Trampo

A sort of pizza with a crispy base made with peppers, tomatoes and onions. It is a savory pastry and you will find them in bakeries.

Mallorca Traditional Foods
Mallorca Traditional Foods / www.bonviveur.es

4. What to eat in Mallorca? Arroz brut

It is also called “dirty rice”. Is a stew like dish people make with rice cooked in meat broth. People cook it with vegetables, spices and, if they are in season, wild mushrooms, but ingredients vary depending on the season.

It is more typical in autumn and winter, specially in the countryside.

Mallorca Traditional Foods
Mallorca Traditional Foods / www.bonviveur.es

5. Frit Mallorquì

A mix of vegetables and meat, specially liver seasoned with spices. It is more traditional inland than in the coast.

6. What to eat in Mallorca? Gató, a traditional dessert

A traditional almond cake and a popular dessert on the island. People serve it with vanilla and almond ice cream, providing a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

What to eat in Mallorca
What to eat in Mallorca? / www.bonviveur.es

7. Hierbas Mallorquinas, the most traditional drink

The most popular liqueur in the island. It is a very strong digestif made from a mix of local herbs and spices.

These are just a few of the delightful dishes you can enjoy while exploring the culinary traditions of Mallorca. Each offers a unique taste of the island’s culture and flavors.

Save money on your trip to try discover what to eat in Mallorca and enjoy all the traditional foods!

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

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What to eat in Mallorca? 7 Majorca foods you must try https://spainlikealocal.es/majorca-food/ Mon, 30 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=24528 If you visit Spain this lovely Balearic Island do not miss this post with the Majorca food that is a must and discover what to eat in Mallorca. What to …

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If you visit Spain this lovely Balearic Island do not miss this post with the Majorca food that is a must and discover what to eat in Mallorca.

What to eat in Mallorca? 7 Majorca foods you must try

1. Majorca Food. Arroz Brut

If you are a fan of Paella do no miss Majorca’s twist on it. Arros Brut is a rice served in a broth with meats, sausages, vegetables and spices.

Ingredients might vary a bit depending on the season and, as the rice goes dark, the name translates as dirty rice.

Majorca food
Majorca food / www.bonviveur.es

2. Sobrasada, a must in the island

Sobrasada is a spread made with pork meat, salt, pepper and paprika. You normally have it in bread and, while you might find variations in different areas of Spain the one from Mallorca is very famous.

3. What to eat in Mallorca? Ensaimada

The most famous sweet in the island. If you are in any airport you will recognize who is coming from Mallorca if they carry one of these.

It is shape as a spiral and made with flour, eggs, water, sugar and lard. You can have it for breakfast, as a snack and also find them filled with chocolate or cream.

What to eat in Mallorca
What to eat in Mallorca ? / www.hotelaya.com

4. Majorca food. Coca de Trampo, the local pizza

Very typical in all the Balearic Islands. You will find them in bakeries with different toppings but the most usual version has onion, peppers and tomato.

Majorca food
Majorca food / www.recetasgratis.net

5. What to eat in Mallorca? Tumbet

A very Mediterrean dish, similar to ratatouille, made with aubergine, potatoes, red peppers, tomatoes, courgettes, olive oil and garlic.

You can find it with bread or as a side with fish or meats.

What to eat in Mallorca
What to eat in Mallorca ? / www.directoalpaladar.com

6. What to eat in Majorca? An unusual Majorca food: Snails

Not everyone is aware eating snails is quite common in Spain. In Majorca they have their own recipe. They are cooked in a broth made with fennel, parsley, garlic, and chilli. Spicy and delicious!

What to eat in Majorca
What to eat in Majorca ? / www.ultimahora.es

Save money on your trip to discover what to eat in Mallorca and the yummiest Majorca foods!

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

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Where to stay in Ciutadella on a budget? Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales https://spainlikealocal.es/hostal-sa-posada-set-cales-ciutadella/ https://spainlikealocal.es/hostal-sa-posada-set-cales-ciutadella/#respond Thu, 12 May 2022 10:02:41 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=16396 If you want to visit Menorca without spending a fortune and you are wondering where to stay in Ciutadella on a budget check out Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales. Where to …

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If you want to visit Menorca without spending a fortune and you are wondering where to stay in Ciutadella on a budget check out Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales.

Where to stay in Ciutadella, Menorca on a budget? Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales

If you are on a budget and are looking for affordable accommodation, this hostel has been recently renovated and as a result, while basic, is closer to a hotel than a hostel.

Where to stay in Ciutadella on a budget hostal sa posada
Where to stay in Ciutadella on a budget / Hostal sa Posada

* from 50€ and free cancellation

The location is as good as it gets, as it is located in Ciutadella’s city centre, very close to the port where the best restaurants are located.

The rooms, while small, have a cosy island vibe, their own bathrooms, although shower is small, and they are equipped with air con, TV and a fan. There is also a shared fridge for guests to use.

Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales
Where to stay in Ciutadella on a budget

If you want a central location and are planning to just come to the room to sleep, this place is a great option to spend some days in Menorca without having to spend lots.

Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales Ciutadella
Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales

* from 50€ and free cancellation

  • If you are in Ciutadella and you like fish and seafood do not miss our favourite restaurant, Cafe Balear here>
  • Read all our posts about the island of Menorca here>

Save money on your trip to Ciutadella, Menorca

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

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The best quiet beaches in Menorca to find peace when everything is crowded https://spainlikealocal.es/quiet-beaches-menorca/ https://spainlikealocal.es/quiet-beaches-menorca/#comments Thu, 26 Aug 2021 09:22:19 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=9141 If you dream of a wild empty beach you might be disappointed if you visit Menorca in summer. That is only if you have not found our list!. We bring …

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If you dream of a wild empty beach you might be disappointed if you visit Menorca in summer. That is only if you have not found our list!. We bring you the best quiet beaches in Menorca,  3 secluded calas we have been to and loved.

The best quiet beaches in Menorca. The 3 secluded calas we loved

Do not get me wrong, all the beaches of the Island are stunning.

However, the most popular ones get so crowded some of them close as early as 9am.

But not to worry!

We have done all the exploring to find the best quiet beaches in Menorca to experience the island as wildly and relaxingly as possible.

Algaiarens beach, the best of the quiet beaches in the north of Menorca

Located in the north of the island of Menorca, and formed by two virgin beaches: Tancats and Es Bot.

Quiet beaches in Menorca
Quiet beaches in Menorca

The waters are crystal clear, there is plenty of space and it is not a very popular place as only locals tend to visit. 

The walk is short and the beach long so it is the perfect place if you do not want to wake up too early.

You can find all the information about it in this post>>

Cala Viola. The best secluded beach we found

Located in the north of the Island the surrounding of Cala Viola are just spectacular.

Best secluded beaches in Menorca
Best quiet beaches in Menorca

Cala Viola is an area with three small beaches made of a mix of thick sand and rocks. It is a very relaxing area and it is likely that you will have the beach just for yourself – at least for a while – if you get there early.

Special shoes like the ones below are recommended as you will find many rocks in the water.

It is a wild area not very well known and the most quiet beach we found in Menorca. 

You can read all about Cala Viola in this post >>

If you still want to visit the most popular beaches a great way to do it is by boat. Have a look at this boat tour.

Caleta de Elisabet, the most special of the quiet beaches we found in Menorca

If you explore to the right from Binimel·là beach you will find a wild area full of small beaches only locals know about.

Best quiet beaches in Menorca
Best secluded beaches in Menorca

Caleta de Elisabet is our favourite but you will also find other lovely options. We saw a beach in a cave and a secret beach only accessible if you know where to look. You can read all about the secret beach in this post>>

We got to Caleta Elisabet quite late and still found the beach as empty as you can see in the pic.

Pro tips to find the best quiet beaches in Menorca

  • Menorca gets very busy in July and August. It is always better to go in either June or September.
  • If you want to secure a nice spot in the beach it is always good to head there early in the morning.
  • You will find signs in the road letting you know if the most famous beaches (Like Macareta, Son Saura and Turqueta) are already full. In July they closed as early as 9 am. (They close them when they reach capacity)

Save money on your trip to Spain to find the best quiet and secluded beaches in Menorca!

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

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Cheap things to do in Ibiza to experience the island’s vibe https://spainlikealocal.es/cheap-things-to-do-in-ibiza/ https://spainlikealocal.es/cheap-things-to-do-in-ibiza/#comments Wed, 18 Aug 2021 09:36:09 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=8833 After our many visits to the island and the recommendations we have received from the islanders we have put together a list of cheap things to do in Ibiza to …

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After our many visits to the island and the recommendations we have received from the islanders we have put together a list of cheap things to do in Ibiza to fully experience the island’s vibe for almost free.

Cheap things to do in Ibiza to experience the island’s vibe almost for free

The thing that surprised me most when I first visited Ibiza was how quickly money was disappearing from my pockets.

Especially at the beach bars. A beer? 10€. A small bottle of water? 6€. A sun bed? 100€. Luckily for us, the best things in life are free (or almost).

Cheap things to do in Ibiza: Cala Bassa for a taste of a beach bar

Cala Bassa is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island. Crystal clear waters, white sand and a sea of pines surrounding the water. The ultimate summer paradise.

The parking space for the beach costs 5€ but it comes with a drink in the famous beach bar right by the beach. You can enjoy a lovely day at the beach and stop for a drink at the beach bar before heading back.

Cheap things to do in Ibiza
Cheap things to do in Ibiza / Jixel / www.unsplash.com

Las Dalias market for the artisan hippie vibe

Las Dalias flea market is set in a garden where you can immerse yourself in the most hippie vibe of the island.

You have the Saturday day market (open all year round) and a smaller version some evenings (Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays in summer).

You can book the parking space online via their website to get a discount.

Cheap things to do in Ibiza
Cheap things to do in Ibiza / www.lasdalias.es

Free things to do in Ibiza: Walking tour of the city

Discover all the secrets of the city with a free walking tour through the old town of this beautiful island capital to explore its picturesque corners.

Cheap things to do in Ibiza: Tapas lunch at Es Pueto Chitinguito right by the beach

Most of the trendy beach bars in Ibiza are overpriced, and that doesn’t guarantee that their food offering is particularly good. You end up paying for the views and the decoration.

Es Pueto Chiringuito, in San Antonio, is literally located on the beach and it offers unpretentious Spanish tapas with a relaxed vibe at affordable prices.

Cheap things to do in Ibiza
Cheap things to do in Ibiza: Chiringuito es Pueto

Free things to do in Ibiza: The best sunset from Mirador Cala d’Hort

You’ll find the best panoramic views of Ibiza and the most magical sunsets at the Mirador of Cala d’Hort.

As it might get busy, get there early. Bring your own drinks and a towel to sit on the mountain and have a drink while you wait for the most epic sunset of Ibiza, while you enjoy the most amazing views of Es Vedra.

Free things to do in Ibiza
Free things to do in Ibiza / Florian Settele / www.unsplash.com

Dinner at Bar Costa for the best charcuterie of the Island

The picturesque village of Santa Gertrudis with its white-washed houses and its local vibe is one of the most beautiful places in Ibiza.

In their main square you will find Bar Costa, a local favourite for a casual dinner in the plaza.

Their offer is simple yet delicious: breads, cheeses and a wide variety of Spanish cold cuts (like serrano ham, salchichón and chorizo). Everything is locally sourced and made by them.

Cheap things to do in ibiza
Cheap things to do in Ibiza. Bar Costa

Cheap romantic dinner in Ibiza in Natural Pau

This lovely spot is located in San Antonio and their best feature is their amazing garden.

Full of island vibes, it is the perfect spot for dinner after a long day at the beach. If you visit do not miss the opportunity to take a picture on their swing at the bar.

Cheap things to do in Ibiza
Cheap things to do in Ibiza. Natural Pau, in San Antonio

Other tips if you are on a budget and want cheap things to do in Ibiza

  • The small holiday supermarkets are way more expensive than the bigger ones. It is worth heading to one of the big ones like Mercadona or buy in the local stores.
  • Drinks are particularly expensive by the beach and you will need tons of water to make it through the day. In any supermarket you can find bags to keep food and drinks chilled. Get one, fill it with ice and drinks and take it with you to the beach and you will have cold drinks all day long.
  • A picnic on the beach is the best choice for lunch if you are on a budget. We never go to a beach without some bread, olives, spreads, crips, charcuterie and some fruit for dessert. Yummy!
  • Always bring an umbrella and sun block as the heat in summer is brutal.
  • During the summer, the most famous beaches get full from as early as 9:30 am.

If you are looking for romantic destinations have a look at our list of the best places in Spain for couples.

Save money on your trip to experience cheap things to do in Ibiza

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

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Where to stay in Ciutadella, Menorca? An option for every budget and taste. https://spainlikealocal.es/where-to-stay-in-ciutadella-menorca/ https://spainlikealocal.es/where-to-stay-in-ciutadella-menorca/#respond Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:06:13 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=8596 When we visit the island of Menorca we always try to stay as close to Ciutadella as possible. It is very well located, close to the most famous beaches and …

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When we visit the island of Menorca we always try to stay as close to Ciutadella as possible. It is very well located, close to the most famous beaches and having dinner in Ciutadella’s port is a very special experience. Deciding where to stay in Ciutadella, Menorca, will depend mostly on your budget and the type of experience you are looking for.

We bring you three options. One is on a budget, one is “like a local”. The last one is a luxury stay in a historic building in case you are visiting the island for a special occasion.

Where to stay in Ciutadella, Menorca? An option for every budget and taste.

If you are on a budget and are looking for affordable accommodation, this renovated hostel, while basic, is closer to a hotel than a hostel.

The location is as good as it gets, as it is located in Ciutadella’s city centre, very close to the port.

Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales
Where to stay in Ciutadella Menorca / Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales

The rooms, while small, have a cosy island vibe, their own bathrooms, although shower is small, and they are equipped with air con, TV and a fan. There is also a shared fridge for guests to use.

If you want a central location and are planning to just come to the room to sleep, this place is a great option to spend some days in Menorca without having to spend lots.

* from 50€ and free cancellation

Located near the Ciutadella’s Cathedral, this hotel is something in between a boutique hotel and a guesthouse.

where to stay in ciutadella menorca
Where to stay in Ciutadella Menorca / HoMe Hotel

All the rooms have bathrooms and there is a shared kitchen, patio and a lovely living room for the guests to use.

It only has four rooms, all of them have a cosy Menorcan vibe and are carefully decorated. They are best suited for couples, as in some of them, the bathroom is integrated in the room and not a separate space.

Located in the heart of Ciutadella, in a XVII century historic building, this hotel will give you the full Mediterranean experience.

Where to stay in Ciutadella Menorca
Where to stay in Ciutadella Menorca / Divina Suiites Hotel Singular

Their lovely suites are large, elegant and they are equipped with a kitchen and air con. The marble bathrooms come with amenities from Rituals, and the beds are queen size and Egyptian cotton bed lined.

The breakfast is lovely and served daily in the room. The vibe is Mediterranean luxury, and the atmosphere is quiet – no children are allowed to stay at the hotel.

* from 140€ 

  • If you are in Menorca do not miss this restaurant in the port. It is one of our all time favourites!

Save money when you decide where to stay in Ciutadella Menorca

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

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Caleta Elisabet, the secret romantic beach near Binimela https://spainlikealocal.es/caleta-elisabet-binimela-menorca/ https://spainlikealocal.es/caleta-elisabet-binimela-menorca/#comments Wed, 11 Aug 2021 07:24:20 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=8328 The hunt for the perfect beach is something we personally take very seriously. We think of the beach, the shade, the position of the towel to enjoy the view… and …

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The hunt for the perfect beach is something we personally take very seriously. We think of the beach, the shade, the position of the towel to enjoy the view… and that’s only the beginning. It is not often, without prior research or someone’s recommendation, that we find ourselves in a beach that blows our mind. And still, that’s what happened when we headed to Binimela and, instead, found ourself in Caleta Elisabet, in Menorca.

Caleta Elisabet Menorca Binimela
Caleta Elisabet Menorca / Binimela

Caleta Elisabet, the secret romantic beach near Binimela

Binimela and Cala Pregonda

The parking area serves both Cala Pregonda, one of the most beautiful beaches in Menorca and Binimela. However, you need to walk around half an hour to get to Pregonda.

When we got to Binimela, our original destination, there were a huge amount of seaweed piling up on the shore and the smell was terrible. 

As everyone was heading to the left to reach Cala Pregonda, we decided to explore the right. And  boy was it a good decision!

Caleta Elisabet Menorca Binimela
Binimel·là beach from Caleta Elisabet Menorca

First we reached a lovely cala, but with not much sand to lay the towel. Then we reached a small cala inside a cave, it was stunning, but taken. And then, the third one, just like in the tale, ended up being perfect. We reached Caleta de S’elisabet or “Caleta de Elisabet”.

Caleta Elisabet Menorca
Caleta Elisabet Menorca / Binimela

Thin clay-coloured sand, water as transparent as you can imagine, and full of fish, a wonderful view, and no more than ten people there! We made it!

Little did we know that it was going to get even better.

  • If you are looking for a place to stay in Menorca on a budget Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales, in Ciutadella’s city centre, has been recently renovated. Have a look here>
  • If you can spend a bit more, Divina Suites Hotel Singular is located in a XVII century historic building n the heart of Ciutadella and it is designed to give you the full Mediterranean experience. Have a look here>

The secret beach in Caleta Elisabet, Binimela, Menorca.

Around midday a couple mysteriously emerged from the water carrying all their beach paraphernalia. Without a boat on sight, and considering how much I like gossip, I had to investigate the matter further.

And to my surprise, there is an even more secluded beach waiting for you literally just round the corner. 

Caleta Elisabet Menorca Binimela
Caleta Elisabet Menorca / Binimela

You can reach it either following a very narrow path hidden behind a rock, or by walking in the water to the left.

A tiny sandy beach as private as they get. Life does not get any better than this!

Useful information if you visit the secret beach near Binimela

  • Around 10/15 minute walk to get there from the parking.
  • The beach has no services, bring everything you might need to spend the day.
  • It is a virgin beach and nudity is allowed.
  • Good beach for snorkeling, plenty of fish!
  • Read all our stories about Menorca here >

Save money on your trip to Caleta Elisabet, near Binimela, Menorca.

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

*  This blog contains affiliate links. If you purchase or book something, we get a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Cala Viola de Ponent, Menorca. The secret beach for snorkel lovers https://spainlikealocal.es/cala-viola-de-ponent-menorca/ https://spainlikealocal.es/cala-viola-de-ponent-menorca/#comments Wed, 04 Aug 2021 09:15:25 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=8205 Located on the way to the most famous lighthouse of  the island, Faro de Cavalleria, the small beach of Cala Viola de Ponent, in Menorca, is one of those places …

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Located on the way to the most famous lighthouse of  the island, Faro de Cavalleria, the small beach of Cala Viola de Ponent, in Menorca, is one of those places you feel reluctant to talk about as you would rather keep it to yourself.

This small beach does not have the thinest sand or the most turquoise waters, but it has something the others can not even dream of: there is a chance you will have it all for yourself.

Cala Viola de Ponent
Cala Viola de Ponent

Cala Viola de Ponent, Menorca. The secret beach for snorkel lovers

Cala Viola de Ponent, a secret beach in Menorca

A friend told me about it and I must confess, at first I was not sure. I thought maybe his taste in beaches was different to mine. He had not recommend anything to me before, and I was apprehensive, as Menorca in Summer can get intense… if you find yourself with no beach space at 11am you are probably done for the day as everything gets packed quickly.

However, after a very traumatic experience the day before trying to get to Cala Mitjana only to find that after the long hike the beach was, not only packed but also stinky as it was full of seaweed, I was ready to give it a go.

Cala Viola Menorca
Cala Viola, Menorca

The surroundings of Cala Viola, Menorca

The surrounding alone is worth a visit. Cliffs on one side, water on the other, and a lone road that ends in the lighthouse. An Instagrammer’s dream.

When we arrived to the parking lot, my excitement started to grow as there were only a couple of vans. That has never happened to me before. And it wasn’t even that early, we got there around 10:30am.

And there we found three small calas in the middle of the wilderness for us to explore.

  • If you are looking for a place to stay in Menorca on a budget check Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales. Renovated and in Ciutadella’s city centre. Have a look here>
  • If you can spend a bit more, Divina Suites Hotel Singular is in a XVII century historic building in the heart of Ciutadella and will give you the full Mediterranean experience. Have a look here>

The 3 beaches that form the cala

First thing you need to know is that Cala Viola is not a white sand beach. It is a mix of rocks and thick sand. Special shoes to get in are not essential but recommended. 

You will however find space to lie down comfortably. As the beach is full of rocks and the waters are very calm, it makes a dreamy spot for snorkelling.

Cala Viola de Ponent Menorca
Cala Viola de Ponent, Menorca

The cala in the middle is the biggest. The one on the left was full of seaweed. The one on the right was secluded, and perfect for us.

Cala Viola de Ponent
Cala Viola de Ponent

Camp was set, clothes came off and we could enjoy the calm and quiet beach day we had dreamed of. You will only hear the water, and the occasion seagull. It is one of the most peaceful places in Menorca.

At its peak there were maybe 20 people in Cala Viola.

Life does not get any better!

Needless to say, the friend who recommend it has won my blind trust.

Useful information if you visit Cala Viola de Ponent, Menorca

  • Less than 5 minute walk to get there from the parking.
  • The beach has no services, bring everything you might need to spend the day.
  • It is a wild beach and swimming with no clothes is allowed.
  • It is a great beach for snorkeling
  • If you visit Menorca and you like secluded beaches you might want to have a look at the best quiet beaches in the island.

Save money on your trip to Cala Viola in Menorca!

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

*  This blog contains affiliate links. If you purchase or book something, we get a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Algaiarens beach, Menorca. The local’s favourite. https://spainlikealocal.es/algaiarens-beach-menorca/ https://spainlikealocal.es/algaiarens-beach-menorca/#comments Thu, 29 Jul 2021 07:21:09 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=8087 Algaiarens beach is located in the north of the island of Menorca, and it is formed by two virgin beaches: Tancats and Es Bot. It is not a very popular place …

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Algaiarens beach is located in the north of the island of Menorca, and it is formed by two virgin beaches: Tancats and Es Bot. It is not a very popular place that will, however, fulfil your summer expectations.

Algaiarens beach, Menorca. The local's favourite

Algaiarens beach Menorca
Algaiarens beach, Menorca / Instagram @thedanielnixon

Algaiarens beaches: Tancats

The closest beach to the parking area is Tancats, just a short 5-minute walk, making it a great option if you want to avoid the hikes that you need to take to other beaches. It is a white-sand, lovely beach with some of the most crystalline waters on the island.

Crispy-cold, turquoise waters await for you. Nothing more exhilarating than a swim in the sea to make you forget the crazy hot weather of Spain in summer.

Algaiarens beach Menorca
Algaiarens beach, Menorca / Instagram @thedanielnixon

Algaiarens beaches: Es Bot

If you follow the path from the parking to the right and cross the pine forest you will get to Es Bot beach. As you will go through a protected area you might even encounter sea turtles on the way!

Es Bot is a great option if Tancats is full. The walk is around 1 km from the parking area.

  • If you are looking for a place to stay in Menorca on a budget Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales, in Ciutadella’s city centre, has been recently renovated. Have a look here>
  • If you can spend a bit more, Divina Suites Hotel Singular is located in a XVII century historic building n the heart of Ciutadella and it is designed to give you the full Mediterranean experience. Have a look here>

Pro tips for your visit to Algaiarens beach, Menorca.

  • Both Algaiarens’ beaches are some of the wildest beaches of Menorca. Luckily, they are not the most popular.

  • Both beaches are a very good option if you visit Menorca in summer and the other beaches are crowded. We visited on a weekday in July 2021, got there at around 10 am, and the place was pretty much empty.

  • While the waters are crystal clear, the area is not very interesting for snorkelling.

  • There are two parking areas. Skip the first one and follow to the second as is much closer to the beach.

  • The beach has no services so make sure to bring everything you need for your visit, especially if you plan on having an epic day!

Save money on your trip to Spain!

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

*  This blog contains affiliate links. If you purchase or book something, we get a commission at no extra cost to you.

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A night in Cafe Balear, Menorca. The best restaurant in Ciutadella https://spainlikealocal.es/cafe-balear-ciutadella/ https://spainlikealocal.es/cafe-balear-ciutadella/#comments Mon, 26 Jul 2021 09:24:00 +0000 https://spainlikealocal.es/?p=8055 We will take care of your night so you do not have to worry about finding the best restaurant in Ciutadella. The only place you can not leave the island …

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We will take care of your night so you do not have to worry about finding the best restaurant in Ciutadella. The only place you can not leave the island of Menorca without visiting: Cafe Balear, in Ciutadella.

Cafe Balear Ciutadella
Cafe Balear Ciutadella

The best restaurant in Ciutadella. A night in Cafe Balear

Cafe Balear, Cuitadella. A place with history in Menorca

Located in the Ciutadella’s port, Cafe Balear is an institution in the area since it opened in the 70s as a mere tavern.

Nowadays, however, it is not just a tavern but the loveliest restaurant in Ciutadella.

Their terrace is so close to the water you will see the fish swimming while you enjoy your dinner. And if that is not special enough, you will also get a stunning view of the Cathedral from your table.

Best Restaurant in Ciutadella
Best Restaurant in Ciutadella

To say their products are top quality is an understatement as what you are served is in fact as fresh as it gets! The Rosa Santa Primera is their boat, and it brings in the fresh catch every morning.

If you are a seafood or fish lover this place will make your wildest dreams come true.

  • If you are looking for a place to stay in Menorca on a budget Hostal Sa Posada Set Cales, in Ciutadella’s city centre, has been recently renovated. Have a look here>
  • If you can spend a bit more, Divina Suites Hotel Singular is located in a XVII century historic building n the heart of Ciutadella and it is designed to give you the full Mediterranean experience. Have a look here>

The food in the best restaurant in Ciutadella

Their menu is full of fish carpaccios, every kind of seafood you can imagine, fish, paellas and some pretty great meats from the island too, if you are up for it!

Cafe Balear Menorca
Cafe Balear Ciutadella Menorca

They do no take bookings for the terrace, you will need to show up and queue. However we can guarantee that it is worth the wait!

Cafe Balear Ciutadella
Scallops from the best restaurant in Ciutadella, Cafe Balear

And if you are too impatient, you can always get yourself a drink from the bar while you queue to help you cope with the Spanish summer heat!

Best restaurant Ciutadella
Best restaurant Ciutadella

After your wait, you will be rewarded with a table by the water, a dusty pink sunset and a meal you will remember for years to come.

Important information before visiting Cafe Balear, Menorca, the best restaurant in Ciutadella

  • We recommend to go for dinner and queue for a table in the terrace. Avoid weekends if you want to reduce the waiting time.
  • If you’d rather book you can do it to eat inside the restaurant. Check the restaurant’s web here. 
  • The local speciality is the lobster. If you are on a budget check before ordering as they charge you depending on the weight and can get quite expensive.
  • We loved the carpaccio, clams, scallops. The steak from local beef was superb.
  • Please check opening times before going as they might change depending if it is low or high season.

Save money on your trip to Spain to visit Cafe Balear, Menorca, the best restaurant in Ciutadella!

The best hotel deals with free cancellation and great customer service here>

*  This blog contains affiliate links. If you purchase or book something, we get a commission at no extra cost to you.

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