If you have an image of holidays in the Balearic Islands that consists of packed resorts and forests of high-rises, then think again! For holidays in Menorca, Son Bou caters for the holidaymaker that is looking for a little more tranquillity and natural quiet charm.

Menorca – the calm island

The Balearic Islands sit off the Spanish coast nestling in the beautiful Mediterranean. Menorca is one of the smaller islands of the group and has worked hard over the years to retain its small island charm and culture. Many people argue that it has successfully managed to fend off the temptations of over-development that have blighted some Mediterranean destinations.

Over the centuries many peoples, including the Romans, Moors and British, have ruled it – each leaving their own particular legacy. The capital city of Mahon (it was actually the British who made it the capital in the 18th century) is a charming town based around the second deepest harbour in the world. It’s full of ancient appeal, historic buildings, shops and boutiques and is well worth a look.

Best of Menorca -Son Bou

This is a resort based around one of the longest and best beaches on the island. It is oriented towards the slightly more discerning visitor and as such, it’s often regarded as being ideal for families and those looking for a quieter and rather more relaxing holiday. It comprises not only hotels and villas that provide the accommodation around the beach, but also a range of other attractions and facilities.

The Beach

With fine golden sand, the beach stretches for between 2 and 3 kilometres. It is separated from the resort and for the most part protected by sand dunes and reed beds meaning that you feel that you’re in a secluded area. These reed beds and dunes are a haven for wildlife – particularly migrating birds. Those areas can be explored if you’re interested in wildlife and bird spotting.

What makes the beach doubly appealing is that bathing is generally regarded as safe for all. Even so, the water is open and as with most beaches, caution is always advisable – particularly where children are concerned. It is important to pay attention to any Red/Amber/Green flags and any ‘on-the-day’ local advice. The beach is served by a number of unobtrusive bars and restaurants, so you won’t be too far from refreshment if you need it after a period of sunbathing and swimming!

The town

A relatively small and discrete resort on Menorca, Son Bou is unlikely to make you feel that you’re in a large town. Part of the resort is based around hotel and apartment style accommodation that typically caters for families and more mature holidaymakers. A little further back from the beach there are some developments of luxury villas used by some for their holidays or by permanent residents.

The culture is generally best described as ‘laid back’ and unrushed. There are a variety of restaurants and bars to suit all tastes and budgets and some of the larger hotels also have in-house entertainment for nights out.

Sights and diversions

In and around the general area of Menorca’s Son Bou there are plenty of things to do apart from just soaking up the sun. There is a waterchute where you and your children could pass a happy few hours just doing nothing but frolicking. There is also the Maze where visitors try to find their way around a maze looking for tokens in the process – expect some magical visitors and interruptions while you’re trying to do so!

There are a variety of shops in the resort selling a wide range of clothes and goods. A little further away (about 5 miles) is the town of Alaior with a local market on Thursday mornings. It’s also worth making the relatively short trip to the capital Mahon for a look-around and also the original capital Ciudadela which has a very unique old-world charm. Monte Toro is also worth a trip. It is the highest point on the island (though it’s only around 1200 feet) but the church on the top and the spectacular views are not to be missed.

If you’re looking for a little more relaxation and sophistication and a little less hectic holidaying during your stay in Menorca, Son Bou could be ideal.

Author Bio: Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you with a wide selection of villas in Menorca. Son Bou is ideal for family and villa holidays. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of any information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information contained in it.

Category: Travel
Keywords: Menorca. Son Bou