A must-do route from Mahón to Es Grau - Camí de Cavalls
Menorca is more than just paradise beaches. It’s also an island of scenic trails, natural parks and ancient paths that invite exploration. If you’re staying at Royal Life Apartments, the section of the Camí de Cavalls from Mahón to Es Grau is a fantastic option — easily accessible, diverse in scenery and perfect for a half-day adventure.
Menorca is known for its turquoise beaches and peaceful atmosphere, but it also hides incredible natural landscapes that surprise even the most seasoned travelers. One of the most spectacular is the Barranc d’Algendar, the largest and most iconic gorge on the island.
If you're staying at Royal Life Apartments in Mahón and feel like exploring a different side of Menorca, this is a perfect option for a day trip.
Discover Cala Rafalet: A Quiet Cove Off the Beaten Path
If you're looking to discover a wilder, quieter side of Menorca, Cala Rafalet is one of the most special and peaceful coves on the island. Tucked between rocky cliffs and pine trees, this small cove remains largely untouched and is ideal for visitors who enjoy nature, tranquility, and a bit of adventure.
Favàritx Lighthouse and S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park
If you're staying in Mahón and looking for a different kind of experience surrounded by nature, one of the top excursions is visiting Favàritx Lighthouse and the nearby S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park. This northeastern corner of Menorca offers dramatic landscapes, perfect for hiking, photography, or simply enjoying a quiet moment away from the crowds.
The Best Landscapes in Less Than an Hour from Mahón
If you've rented a car during your stay in Mahón, you're about to discover one of the most free and comfortable ways to explore Menorca. Thanks to its manageable size, you can reach hidden coves, spectacular viewpoints, and charming villages in less than an hour.
Long before its paradise beaches and charming towns, Menorca was already home to fascinating ancient cultures. The Talayotic culture of Menorca, recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a journey into the past through megalithic monuments unique in the Mediterranean.
Menorca is a gastronomic paradise that goes beyond restaurant dishes. If you're looking for a delicious souvenir or an original gift, here’s a selection of local products you can buy during your stay.
Menorca isn't just a destination for coves and relaxation. The island has a rich and diverse cultural life that surprises those looking for something more during their vacation. From theaters to contemporary art centers, historic venues and traditional festivals, here are some cultural experiences you can enjoy during your stay.
f you’ve already explored Mahón and are wondering what else Menorca has to offer, you’re in the right place.
This Balearic island, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is much more than just beaches. Its combination of history, nature, and local culture makes it a complete year-round destination.
In this article, we offer some ideas for planning your day trips from Mahón, where you can comfortably stay at Royal Life Apartments, and easily explore the rest of the island.
1. Enjoy the Unspoiled Coves of the South
Menorca is famous for its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, especially along the southern coast. Some of the most recommended are:
Cala Mitjana: surrounded by pine trees and with easy access from a nearby parking area.
Cala Macarella and Macarelleta: two natural gems connected by a rocky path, very popular in summer.
Son Bou: the island’s longest beach, ideal for walking, swimming, and water sports.
Tip: many of these beaches have no services, so bring water, food, and sun protection.
2. Visit Ciutadella, the Former Capital
At the western end of Menorca lies Ciutadella, a city full of noble charm and character. You can visit it on a day trip from Mahón (about 45 minutes by car), and enjoy:
Wandering through its medieval old town, with narrow streets and grand townhouses. Visiting Santa Maria Cathedral and Plaça del Born. Dining at one of the restaurants by the port or in the lively market area. Ciutadella is also a fantastic place to experience the Sant Joan festivities, celebrated in June with horses, music, and Menorcan tradition.
3. Explore Menorca’s Prehistoric Past
One of the island’s most unique features is its archaeological heritage. The so-called Talayotic culture left numerous megalithic remains scattered across Menorca’s countryside.
Some sites worth visiting:
Naveta des Tudons: one of the oldest monuments in Europe, used as a collective tomb.
Torre d’en Galmés: a well-preserved prehistoric village.
Taulas and Talayots: unique stone structures in the Mediterranean.
This route is perfect for those who enjoy history and outdoor archaeology.
4. Taste the Local Cuisine
Beyond Mahón cheese, Menorcan cuisine has much to offer. While traveling across the island, take the opportunity to try some traditional dishes:
Lobster stew (caldereta de langosta): typical of Fornells, a fishing village in the north. Oliaigua: a humble but tasty vegetable soup served with bread. Formatjades and pastissets: typical pastries often enjoyed during holidays and Easter.
In many villages, you’ll also find wineries, farms, or local markets selling artisan products.
5. Follow a Trail on the Camí de Cavalls
The Camí de Cavalls is a historic trail that circles the entire island, stretching 185 km. It can be walked in sections and offers stunning views of the coastal landscape, both north and south. Some easy and recommended routes from Mahón:
Mahón – Es Grau: a peaceful walk that leads to the s'Albufera des Grau Natural Park. Binibequer – Punta Prima: a coastal route with coves and scenic viewpoints.
Our team at Royal Life can help you plan a section of the Camí de Cavalls tailored to your pace and time.
Where to Stay to Discover the Whole Island
If you're looking for a strategic, comfortable, and quiet location, Mahón is the best base for your stay. At Royal Life Apartments, right in the city center, you'll have easy access to restaurants, shops, and transport to explore the island.
Our apartments feature a swimming pool, breakfast buffet, daily cleaning service, and a welcoming atmosphere ideal for both holidaymakers and business travelers.
Five must-see coves less than 30 minutes from Mahón
Mahón, the capital of Menorca, is not only the island’s cultural and administrative centre, but also a fantastic starting point for exploring some of its most beautiful beaches. While many visitors head west or south in search of crystal-clear waters, there are stunning coves just a short drive or bus ride away from Mahón.
Here’s a selection of five coves you can reach in under 30 minutes—perfect for a day out in nature.
Cala Mesquida
One of the closest coves to Mahón, Cala Mesquida offers clear waters, unspoiled surroundings and fewer crowds. A peaceful option for a morning swim or a quiet afternoon.
Es Grau
Located inside the s’Albufera des Grau Natural Park, this cove features calm, shallow waters and is ideal for families or paddle sport lovers. Also read: Getting Around Menorca Without a Car
Cala Binibeca
Close to the charming village of Binibeca Vell, this beach combines natural beauty with nearby facilities. It’s a great place to relax after exploring the whitewashed streets of the town.
Cala Alcaufar
A small and quiet cove with local character. Its calm waters and peaceful setting make it a hidden gem just a short ride from Mahón.
Punta Prima
One of the most popular beaches in the southeast of Menorca. It’s easily accessible by car or bus and offers restaurants, facilities and great views of Isla del Aire.
How to Get There
By car or scooter: All of these coves are within a 30-minute drive from Royal Life.
By bus: Regular lines connect Mahón to Es Grau, Binibeca and Punta Prima during the summer season.
By boat or guided tour: Mahón’s harbour is home to several companies offering boat trips and excursions along the coast.
Royal Life Tip
Start the day with our breakfast buffet, open to both guests and the public, and don’t forget to pack water, sun protection and comfortable footwear—some coves have no services, but they’re worth the walk.
Staying in Mahón gives you easy access to some of Menorca’s most beautiful coves, without the need for long journeys. Whether you explore by land or sea, you’ll find turquoise waters and peaceful spots just minutes away.
Financiado con fondos del Consell Insular de Menorca
Ayudas BGreenMenorca del Consell Insular de Menorca para el fomento de actuaciones sostenibles dirigidas a establecimientos turísticos para el año 2023 - 2024.
We are improving our facilities, thanks to Program 1 of the NEXTG RD477/2021 funds we have installed a Self-consumption facility in Building I & Building II. Improving energy efficiency and saving CO2 emissions in our facilities: Our commitment to the environment.
We improve job security, thanks to funds from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan of the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism. Improving occupational safety in our facilities: Our commitment to the company's human capital.
Improved Interior Lighting
Photovoltaic Production Increase Building I
Improvement of DHW Accumulation Building I
Improvement of DHW Accumulation Building II
We improved our facilities thanks to the "Energy Efficiency Program for Tourist Establishments of the General Directorate of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, funded by the European Union Next Generation EU Subsidized investment: €34,597.87".
We have replaced the interior lighting, reducing consumption by 50%, increased solar photovoltaic production by 50%, and improved the energy efficiency of the DHW storage system in each building, improving the energy efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions of our facilities: Our commitment to the environment.
Replacement 18ud Solar Thermal Panels Building I
Replacement 18ud Solar Thermal Panels Building II
We improved our facilities thanks to the "Aid for the implementation of incentive programs for the implementation of renewable thermal energy in different sectors of the economy, within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan financed by the EU"
We have replaced the solar thermal panels in Building I and Building II, improving the energy efficiency of DHW production by 90%, ensuring the autonomy of each building, improving the energy efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions at our facilities: Our commitment to the environment.