Mahón, the most coveted port of Menorca

Mahón is the easternmost spot of Spain, at the far end of a beautiful natural port that has been prized over history. It is the current capital of Menorca, the true gem of the Balearic Islands. Plus, it hosts the Menorca airport, making travelling to paradise easy. Around this area, you can dive into the turquoise waters of its many beautiful, virgin beaches. So, are you ready to find out more about Mahón, the most coveted port of Menorca?

A bit of history

Mahón is one of the best natural ports in the whole world. Magón, Hannibal’s brother, was the first to understand this and founded the city that still carries his name: Mahón. If you look closely at the map, there is a channel of water coming from the sea, and at its far end, there is Mahón. Such a privileged spot was very prized over history. Romans, Byzantines, and Moorish were all interested in and fighting for it. 

Because the pirate Barbarossa kept attacking the city, Spanish king Philip II decided to build the mightiest fortress of its time. It was said to be impregnable, and it was for 200 years. But then, the British got it through a treaty and ran the city for 70 years. This is why, when you walk around Mahón, you will still find a lot of the British impact everywhere. When Spain finally got it back, the king of the moment, Charles III, thought that if he destroyed the fortress, the British would no longer be interested in such a stronghold. So, he dismounted it completely, and sure enough, the British captured the port in one day without losing one single soldier. 

Granted, Charles III was excellent in the arts, he completely modernized Madrid and did architectural wonders there, but the war was not definitely his strength. Either way, eventually, another fort was built and lucky for you, no other foolish king decided to demolish it so you can visit it completely. Its name is Fort La Mola, and you should not miss it in Mahón! 

La Mola Fortress, Mahón

Carr. de la Mola, s/n, 07700 Maó-Mahón, Islas Baleares, España

Mahón’s city centre

Aside from La Mola Fortress, you should look at Princep’s and España’s squares, where everything happens. Have a beer here, as there are plenty of bars and restaurants with very nice terraces to choose from. Then you can walk to the Carme cloister, an 18th-century convent, nowadays the city market. If you want to try any local products, this is the place. If you are looking for typical, authentic products, you should try the Xoriguer gin distillery tour. Their gin and everything about its production is handicraft. You can also taste Menorquin sausages and pasta along the way… absolutely delicious! 

Mahón’s city centre is quite rich in nice buildings. I recommend you have a long walk around it. If you like churches, do not miss Carme and Santa María. The city hall is pretty beautiful too, French style. But my favourite spots are no doubt the viewpoints. Pont des Castell and Carme are the best, with spectacular views over the port.

Mahón is a very cosmopolitan city, so if you visit the area, I recommend you stay here for the night. El Consul Mao is an elegant, high-end finish, stylish Hotel Boutique with comfortable beds and organic breakfast, exactly how Boutique hotels should be, so it is a very good option while in the area.

Mahón’s beaches

Being set at a huge port, Mahón does not possess any beach in the city, so you have two choices. The best one is to hop on a boat for a full-day sailing tour and spend the day visiting the most hidden and beautiful coves. 

If you rent a car, the second one is to drive there - some are within a 15-minute drive. Finally, you must visit Es Calò Blanc, the smallest beach in Menorca - only one metre wide! However, its turquoise waters make the visit absolutely worth it.

Cala Tortuga is another must: a very popular virgin beach. Bring everything you need: you will not find any services here! 

Cala Tortuga, Balearic Islands

San Bartolomé, 07701 Maó, Illes Balears, Ισπανία

Sa Mesquida, Punta Prima or Binibeca beaches are other great choices. Menorca, declared Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, is known for the quality of its waters, and you should try to visit as many as you can and decide for yourself which one is your favourite. Mine is Cala Mongofre, surrounded by high dunes. You have to walk an hour to get there, and I advise you to take the Cami de Cavalls, an extraordinary hike. 

Binibeca / Binibequer Beach, Balearic Islands

Carrer de s'Anguila Torta, 63, 07711 Binibèquer, Illes Balears, Spain

Cami de Cavalls literally means “horses’ trail”. Indeed, horses are very important in Menorca. Menorca is a very small island but has its own breed of horses: the Menorquin horses. I will finish this story with a video of them elevating at the Gracia feasts the first week of September. Do not miss it if you are there, it is a gorgeous event to witness! 

After reading all this, I am sure you now understand why Mahón is indeed the most coveted port of Menorca!