Menorca: Hiking in the Balearic Islands on the Camí de Cavalls

First day

Arrival in Menorca - Ciutadella
From the airport, we take a bus to Ciutadella, the island's second city, overlooking a characteristic natural harbor. Check-in at the hotel and time to settle into the relaxed Spanish atmosphere. Dinner and evening stroll through the alleys of the historic center: cobbled streets, elegant buildings, and small squares illuminated by warm lights accompany us on our first immersion into the soul of Minorca. Over the next few days, we will explore Minorca on foot the rugged coastline of this island, starting from the south of Cala en Porter, Cala Turqueta and Cala Mitjana, then passing east of the Favaritx Lighthouse, north of Cala Tirant and Binimel-la, to the west of Cala Morell and Cala Pilar.

Second day

From Alaior to Cala en Porter, between gorges and sea
In the morning, we travel by minibus to Alaior, an inland village completely whitewashed with lime, dominated by an imposing ochre-colored church. From here, we begin our trek towards the sea, following the barranco (canyon) that connects the village to the coast.
The trail leads us to the scenic Cala en Porter, where we can enjoy a refreshing dip. For those who still have energy and want to explore, there is a short excursion to discover the picturesque Cales Coves, a series of coves rich in charm and pirate stories.

Third day

Beaches on the south coast: Cala Turqueta and surroundings
Today we are traveling along one of the most spectacular stretches of the south coast of Menorca, along a path that alternates between woods and glimpses of the sea. The day is dedicated to dreamy coves and coastal trekking.
Walking through olive groves, cultivated fields, and dense Mediterranean scrub, passing through truly exotic views, we reach some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, including Cala Mitjana and Cala en Turqueta, ideal for stopping to swim and rest. The crystal clear waters and white sand make this stretch of coastline one of the most beautiful on the island.

Fourth day

S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park and Favaritx Lighthouse
Excursion to discover the natural heart of the island: we cross the S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park, the centerpiece of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the most environmentally valuable area of Menorca. We will walk along the edge of the large freshwater lagoon, where birds nest on small islands and among the reeds. Our group trek takes us to the picturesque Favaritx Lighthouse, immersed in an almost lunar landscape of dark rocks, essential shapes, and open horizons overlooking the ocean. We will have time to stop for a refreshing swim at Playa d'en Tortuga. At the end of the excursion, we will return by bus to Ciutadella.

Fifth day

Cala Tirant, Cap de Cavalleria, and Binimel-La: the wild north
Today we move to the north coast, towards Cala Tirant, the starting point of our journey through one of the wildest and least urbanized areas of the island. This area is known for its interesting geological features and is a paradise for birdwatchers. We reach the panoramic Cap de Cavalleria, with its solitary lighthouse overlooking cliffs that plunge into the sea. We then continue towards the area of Binimel-laarea, among trails, rural landscapes, and views of the coast. In the afternoon, we return to the center of the island and, for dinner, we return to Ciutadella.

Sixth day

From Cala Morell to Faro Nati: the westernmost point of the island
Our day of trekking starts from Cala Morell, a unique cove nestled between pale rocks and shapes sculpted by the wind. From here, we explore the westernmost part of Menorca, a mainly limestone, barren, and almost desert-like area that offers a feeling of fascinating desolation.
We reach the Nati Lighthouse, where we will eat our packed lunch with a view of the sea. In the afternoon, we continue along the coast between sea stacks and cliffs, then return to Ciutadella, skirting the old port until we return to our hotel.

Seventh day

Els Alocs – Cala Pilar: ever-changing colors and landscapes
In the morning, we visit the characteristic fish market, the perfect opportunity to soak up the island's everyday atmosphere. We then set off towards Els Alocs and the famous Cala Pilar. The route offers a succession of changing colors and landscapes: from the intense green of the vegetation to the red of the rock, which fades to yellow and then returns to a brighter red. The ideal conclusion to this explosion of colors is Cala Pilar itself, famous for its reddish sand and unspoiled natural setting, which culminates in the intense turquoise of the sea. We return to Ciutadella for our last evening!

Eighth day

Return
Last hours in Menorca for our group vacation in the Balearic Islands: we head by bus to Mahon (Maó), where we will catch our flight back to Italy. This is where our trekking trip to Menorca, an experience of discovery and sharing places and stories with new friends, thanks also to our knowledgeable guide. We leave the Balearic Islands with our eyes filled with the turquoise hues of the sea: the excursions, flavors, and colors of this trekking by the sea. See you next time!