A Brief Guide To The Geography Of The Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands are an ideal holiday destination for visitors from the UK looking for either a sunny summer getaway or somewhere to soak up some much needed winter sun. Not only are they just a short 2-hour flight away, but there is also a great range of places to stay, depending on what you want from your holiday. Majorca is the central island, Ibiza lies to the southwest and Menorca is located in the northeast. The climate on all three islands is generally very similar and every year the region’s fabulous white sandy beaches and stunning coastline enjoy around 250 days of sunshine.

Menorca is possibly the least well known of the three islands, partly due to the glamorous reputation of the other two. Both Ibiza and Majorca have made their name among the celebrity yacht owning crowd and the avid British partygoer, and are consequently much more tourist focussed.

Despite the difference in the demographics of the visitors, however, is there a difference between the three islands when you consider the geography - particularly between Menorca and Majorca?

Island Ambiance

Majorca is very popular among fans of the package holiday and has been hosting thousands of holidaymakers looking for summer or winter sun for many decades. The island has some excellent resorts for families who love its energetic atmosphere and warm welcome and so it can get very busy during summer holidays. Equally, winter sun worshippers keep the island busy in the rest of the year.

Conversely, Menorca is a much smaller island, both with regards to population and area. Its much more relaxed atmosphere conveys the fact that the people here live with a more evident Mediterranean outlook. Having escaped the package holiday crowds on the whole, Menorca is less built up and retains much more of a local feel.

What is Out and About?

As soon as you arrive in Majorca you will notice the mountains. The Serra de Tramuntana range spectacularly divides the country from north-west to north-east and its dramatic landscape attracts climbers, mountain bikers and lots more outdoor enthusiasts.

Menorca, however, is very different. The terrain is much more undulating and therefore attracts those who enjoy a more relaxed activity - for example the kind of cyclist who perhaps prefers to take their time and explore the area in a less adrenaline-infused fashion. In 1993 the island became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which is great news for the active conservationists who are focussed on preserving both the coastline and the inland communities. Menorca is home to the famous Camí de Cavalls, the ancient pathway that circumnavigates the whole island. Springtime sees this path lined with a stunning display of beautiful wild flowers.

In the southern region of Menorca, the island is made up primarily of limestone. Hugging the coastline are endless beaches, blessed with picture postcard soft white sand. Red sandstone dominates the geology in the north and the coastline is much more descriptive, featuring inlets, crags and coves, as well as a few lighthouses that can be visited. If sailing or windsurfing is on your agenda, head to The Bay of Farnells, which is perfect for beginners too.

For those easily enticed by the lure of natural beauty, Menorca is the island to choose. Whether it’s summer or winter sun you are looking for, the contrasting coastal landscapes and the distinct rural heart of the island make this destination a tough one to beat.

Author Plate

Brenda Jaaback, Managing Director of Bartle Holidays, is a renowned Menorca expert. From its history to its people and from its wildlife to its cuisine - no secret of the island remains hidden to her. If you're coming to enjoy some winter sun or simply to enjoy the island's stunning natural surrounds, Brenda personally selects the finest properties for her clients and is the go-toperson for anyone planning a relaxing break in Menorca. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.