Along with Germany, the UK provides most visitors to Menorca, and there are good reasons why both the British and Germans could be choosing Menorca for their holidays this year.



Menorca is the second largest of Spain's three Balearic Islands. The island is in the Mediterranean, between Spain and the North African coast. The other two Balearic islands are Majorca and Ibiza.

Most visitors arrive either at Mahon Airport or in Mahon itself via a cruise ship. Mahon is the capital of Menorca. Its deep sea green and blue water harbour contrast delightfully with its white sand beaches, making Mahon both picturesque and perfect for leisure and recreation on the beach.

Mahon is rife with splendid hotels and fine restaurants, clubs and bars. However, tourists who want to experience more of Menorca often spend time at Son Bou or Cala en Porter.

These two resort developments are on the island's central southern coast. It is about a 30 minute drive from the airport in Mahon.

Only a short distance away from these is the resort of Santo Tomas in the district of Migjorn Gran which is also well worth a visit for holidayymakers.

The beach area in Santo Thomas offers popular busier stretches and quaint hideaways. At two miles long, it's never overcrowded and offers protection with its surrounding sand dunes. The beach, patrolled for safety, is long and narrow. It offers an excellent swimming habitat, fine sand and warm surf. Scenic countryside and woods provide a backdrop to the sand and the Mediterranean waters.

All three of these resorts feature gorgeous beaches - in fact, Son Bou boasts the longest beach on the island, with an astounding two miles of white sand for visitors to enjoy.

Although the scenery and terrain may be enough in itself to keep holidaymakers busy for an entire holiday, Menorca is also rich in culture and history.

This is visible in its renowned collection of ancient stone monoliths which bear tales of prehistoric times. Although Menorca has been a territory of Spain for over 200 years, there is still much evidence of its British roots; some English-style architectural influences are still apparent even after the passage of centuries.

Menorca will be hoping that the British will forget their economic woes and remember just how good a holiday in Menorca is.