Minorca

Despite its popularity as a beach holiday paradise, the Balearic Island of Minorca remains one of the loveliest, most unspoilt islands in the Mediterranean. The local population support the control of resort development and the woodlands and fields of its hilly rural interior remain largely untouched by the tourism trade.

This is the result of a thriving local industry that is less dependent on tourism for its survival than many of the other islands are. Minorca is therefore a great option for travellers wanting a more authentic Spanish beach resort holiday. Minorca is only nine miles (15km) wide and about 32 miles (52km) long, and boasts stretches of varied beaches, from silver-sanded, gently curving bays to rugged, rocky inlets.

Aside from beaches and resorts, the island also has plenty of interest for history buffs and culture connoisseurs, with several attractions to visit, including a world famous pipe organ and several mysterious, prehistoric archaeological sites related to the second millennium BC Talayot culture. The more recent history of the island is a saga of British, French, and Spanish attempts at control and colonisation, each of which have left their influence on the local culture and architecture.

Small as it may be, Minorca has a reliable and safe public transport system. Buses run from the Placa de s'Esplanada in Mahon regularly throughout the town and between other towns such as Fornells, Es Mercadal, Alaior, Ferreries, Ciutadella, and Cala en Porter. Taxis can also be hailed from the Placa de s'Esplanada in Mahon. Rental car agencies can be found throughout the towns and at the airport.