Minorca (AKA Menorca) is considered one of Spains most highly sought-after travel destinations, referred to as the more "relaxed" sister of the 4 Balearic Islands located in the southeast of Spain. Its rurally cultivated atmosphere, crystal clear waters, and untouched scenery has increased its status as an ideal go-to for a perfect summer holiday. Especially for those who are in search of a Spanish get-away excluding the tourist-traps, commercialized hot-spots, and long queue's. I happen to be among those few who despise congested crowds of tourists that pack along their selfie sticks and 20 family members, forming a typical "tourist trap". So when arriving in Minorca it was a pleasant surprise to experience minimal activity of this sort.
I based myself for the week in the Southwestern part of Minorca, 20 minutes outside of Ciutadella, called Cala Blanca. Although it wasn't filled with restaurants, bars and shops on every corner, it was perfect for the itinerary I had in mind. The "Cala" (which Minorca calls each small, cave-infused bay/beach on the Island) was decent in appearance but better for watching sunsets and having dinner at one of the restaurants.
My first Cala excursion started off with driving my rented scooter about 30 minutes down towards Cala Macarelleta. This beach happens to be one of the most Social media renown and vastly popular Cala's along the "Cami de Cavalls" (created in 1330, is a 186 km breathtaking path that encircles the entire island passing each Cala).
After this Cala I trekked up about 200 stairs to the top of the Cala where I began my Cami journey. Around 40 minutes from Macarelleta I reached a bridge surrounded by hotels, restaurants, beach stores, etc. Once I crossed the bridge I found myself engulfed among the Spanish tourists coming from the mainland, this beach is called Cala Galdana. If you are eager for a lounge, an umbrella, and a long coast of sand, this may be a great spot to relax in. From Cala Galdana, hiking an extra 30 minutes I ended up on a beautiful path to the picturesque Cala Mitjana.
There are two areas that split this beach, the first that you will come across crowds up fast in the summer months, yet has the the softest sand and an easier entrance into the sea. Whilst, if you walk about 5 minutes up, you will find yourself surrounded by gigantic rocks where people can also lay and there is less flock of visitors. I prefer this part of the Cala most due to its distinct beauty and clear, almost pool-like, water. From there I trekked the opposite direction towards Cala en Turqueta, rightly given by the name itself meaning "Turquoise Beach". Quite the
small beach, I then continued to hike towards Son Saura.
From Son Saura (where parking is preferable with either a car or scooter), I drove to Cala Santandria which happened to of been only 7 minutes scooter ride from Cala Blanca. Cala Santandria has a hotel and beach bar attached, however visitors have liberal access to the beach and parking area.
The following days I did some research about the North Minorcan territory, where the sand is red and the sea is transparent, a perfect little escape from the postcard beaches. I asked locals for some suggestions on the Northern Calas, 90% constantly referred back to one specific beach called Cala Pilar. Located about 45 minutes outside Ciutadella. The drive was remarkable with its rugged terrains and wildlife, yet not the most suitable with a scooter considering the road to the Cala trail is unpaved and not easily accessible. However, regardless of this I arrived with no problems and went along the trek. This trail was unique in contrast to the Cami de Cavalls of the South, where its filled with trees and rocks, the trail of Cala Pilar was extraordinary due to its red textured sand and mountainous environment.
Cala Pilar was beyond my expectations, displaying an atmosphere of untamed beauty, vivid colors, and striking turquoise waters. Although it was essential to bring food/water along with you, I also felt a sense of liberty as there was no shops, markets, or unnecessary distractions nearby which in return gave off a very 'primitive' vibe. The sea is what I felt was a major eye-saw; clear yet with a distinct tint of emerald. I would hate to have any favoritism being that ALL of these Calas were immaculate, however, Cala Pilar does take the cake.
Such a short time in Minorca, yet I can say without a doubt that the Minorcan Cala's left an impression on me and my standards for upcoming Island getaways. Stay tuned for my next mini adventure!
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