Love Nature Based Trips Away? Book A Menorca Villa Holiday

Menorca, the second largest Balearic island, has a wide diversity of incredibly photogeniclandscapes. Its stunning coastline, rich talayotic history, and temperate climate invite peoplewith all manner of interests.

But for those with an interest in nature, flora and fauna, the island is a real treat. Declared aUNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993, the island has remained a pristine destination full ofprotected areas, interesting wildlife, and unspoilt terrain.

Albufera Natural Park

S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park covers 5,000 hectares of wetlands, protected farmland,dunes, and coastline.

● There are various trails you can follow around the park, and you can pick up mapsand literature to guide you from the centre on the road between Fornells and Maó.

● There are over 11,000 water birds of more than a hundred species in the winterseason. The common coot, whistling duck, footed eagle, peregrine falcon, andvultures are just some of the birds to spot here.

● Before pine trees were introduced to the island, holm oaks and wild olive treesdominated--you can find many of these native tree species within the park.

● In Es Grau village, you can hire out kayaks to paddle to the spring water lagoons orrocky coves.

Marine Reserve

The Marine Reserve on the North coast was created in 1999 as a way of guaranteeing thecontinued preservation of local marine life. Around 628 species of fish, shellfish andseaweed have found a safe haven here.

The special area between Pta. De Mar and Cala Barril is around 40m deep, and is aparticularly important habitat for the lobster and sea bass populations. Every now and again,hammer sharks can be spotted, too.

Camí de Cavalls

This ancient defensive bridle path (known as the ‘Path of Horses’) has recently beenrestored. It encircles the entire circumference of the island and offers some truly stunningviews over the sea.

Thanks to the new signposting, you can now cycle, walk, or ride a horse along the flowerytrail and discover some of the coast’s hidden natural treasures. If you’re lucky, you mighteven spot the elusive pine marten, common rabbits, or a tortoise or two.

Barrancs

Canyons and ravines (called barrancs) are a signature element of the Menorcan landscape.These gorges were gradually formed by rainfall cutting into limestone over thousands ofyears, and today, they are home to a wide array of wildlife.

Olive trees, wild orchids and figs have all taken root in the dry river beds. The shelterednature of the barrancs also creates lush microclimates where you’ll find a stunning diversityof flowers. Foxglove, wild saffron, gladioli, and rosemary all take centre stage.

Birdwatchers will certainly find these spots paradisiacal. Along the walls of the barrancs,you’ll find caves and sheltered spots for nesting birds. From the massive Egyptianvulture—which has an impressive two metre wingspan—to booted eagles, the barrancsboast a wide array of resident and migratory bird life.

Where to Stay

To get the most out of your trip, consider booking into a Menorca villa. With the flexibility ofself-catering, you’ll be able to prepare picnics to take with you to these natural gems insteadof relying on finding restaurants.

There’s also the added bonus that in Menorca, villas more often than not come with a privateoutdoor pool. So, you can go for an early morning swim right on your doorstep beforeheading over to the reserves for some birdwatching.

This Balearic gem is simply a haven for nature lovers—and there will be plenty to exploreregardless of where your Menorca villa is situated.

Author Plate

Brenda Jaaback, Managing Director of Bartle Holidays, is a renowned Menorca expert. Fromits history to its people and from its wildlife to its cuisine - no secret of the island remainshidden to her. Personally selecting the finest properties for her clients, Brenda is the go-toperson for anyone looking for a Menorca villa for a relaxing holiday. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of informationcontained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.