MAHON, SPAIN

Visit Menorca, the northernmost island of the Balearic archipelago, a designated UNESCO biosphere reserve and a recognised place of important cultural and natural heritage.

Departing Mahón harbour, we drive to Favaritx. Here we shall view the lighthouse, built in 1922, which is set against the barren rocky landscape. Following our photo stop here, we make a brief visit to Addaia, a small development on the edge of a deep inlet. The headland offers beautiful views out to sea, and across to the nearest beach of Macaret.

Next we proceed to Fornells, an old fishing village perched on a natural harbour. The oldest quarter of the village boasts whitewashed villages, encompassing a church dedicated to Saint Antoni, which was built in 1650. We will have some free time here to take a leisurely stroll around the village.

We then continue to the ‘Queen of the Bays’, Cala Galdana, considered to be one of the most beautiful resorts on the island. Situated on the south coast of Menorca, the horseshoe bay is surrounded by almost vertical pine clad cliffs.

Following lunch at Binisues restaurant, located in a refurbished English-style manor house, we visit Industrias Artesanas, where we can find typical Menorcan products, before continuing to Monte Toro, the highest peak in Menorca, for an excellent viewpoint over the island. On the summit of this mountain stands the sanctuary of the Mother of God of Toro, which is run by a community of Franciscan nuns. On top, there is a statue of Jesus of the Sacred Heart, whose pedestal is dedicated to the Menorcans, who died during the Moroccan war. From here, we re-board our tour coach and travel back to our awaiting ship.

TOUR NOTES: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Uneven terrain will be encountered at Favaritx. There are a few steps to negotiate at both the lunch venue and Monte Toro. It is possible for passengers to remain on the coach at any of the stops if they wish. Unfortunately Favaritx and Addaia are not wheelchair-friendly. This tour may operate in a different order to that described. Please note there are no toilet facilities at Favaritx or Addaia.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2009 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES