3 days ago
A Wellness Guide To Menorca: Where To Stay, Eat And What To Do
Its neighbouring sister might have stolen focus over the years, but next door to popular Mallorca the lesser-known, low-profile island of Menorca seems to be enjoying something of a rebrand. See: the influx of farm-to-table restaurant openings luring in foodies; the return of restored farmhouses and chic hotels capturing the attention of the design conscious; and the cutting-edge spas welcoming in a new wellness crowd.
It's pretty easy to see the appeal. The backdrop of this once forgotten island has remained somewhat untouched compared with its Balearic counterparts – it has retained the rugged terrain, rocky coves and dramatic coastline, as well as its contrasting olive groves, greenery and golden sands.
The wilder landscape isn't the only pull; anyone making their first move to Menorca will instantly spot that the island boasts a more relaxed vibe and fewer crowds in contrast to its neighbouring islands – making it the perfect destination for a wellness escape. Here's what to see, where to stay and what to do if you're planning a wellness-focused holiday on the island…
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Nestled within an 180-hectare estate and flanked by drystone walls, Vestige Son Vell has the grandeur you might expect from an expansive 18th-century manor but with the ease of a family-run farmhouse. Owned by the Madera family and recently restored, the second hotel to open under the Vestige name has held onto its origins, maintaining many of the features of the prior agricultural estate; it feels perfectly symbiotic with the Menorcan countryside, the beautiful outstretched gardens and endless olive groves which surround it.
Both rustic and refined, the hotel might have stayed true to its rich heritage but there's a sense of luxury that pervades through the finer details and furnishings. Ornate chandeliers have been set against the striking backdrop of sandstone walls, while vintage drawers and cupboards contrast with modern textures and furniture.
There are 34 rooms in total, each imbued with the natural beauty of the surroundings, from the muted tones of caramel and sand which work in harmony with the sandstone exterior to the soft interiors which centre upon jute rugs, linens and natural hues.
There's plenty in the way of activities here, too. If you're reluctant to venture too far from within the stone walls of this property but don't feel like complete hibernation, there's much to keep you occupied – two aesthetically-pleasing pools, daily yoga, an open-air cinema, and expansive grounds leading up to a cala and beach. The spa is still a work in progress, but you can also indulge in bespoke treatments from one of the rooms, which have been created by natural and sustainable beauty brand, ROWSE.
One of Menorca's greatest treasures is simply soaking up the outdoors. If you're a keen hiker, head to Camí de Cavalls, which has both easy and more advanced hiking trail routes and unbeatable scenic views of the island. Hop on a bike and explore the caves of Son Saura and Cova Del Coloms. You can also discover the beaches and caves on boat or book a horse riding excursion through the historic Camí de Cavalls.
A wander around the Ciutedella - the historic former capital situated in the west of Menorca - is also a must. Tangle your way down cobbled streets, pop into galleries showcasing the city's heritage, discover local artisans at the market, sip on vermut overlooking the twinkling port and feast on seafood in one of the many bustling restaurants.
An alfresco dinner at Vestige Son Vell's Sa Clarissa is both a culinary delight and unique experience, where a seasonal tasting menu created by chef Joan Bagur remixes traditional and modern Menorcan fare; watch the sun set and listen to the dulcet tones of live music playing in the background.
Menorca's farm-to-table dining is well documented. The island is home to myriad vineyards-turned-restaurants and the number of michelin star outposts is starting to double. For a whistle-stop tour of all the best eats, head to Bodegas Binifadet, the vineyard and winery in Menorca's southern region, spend an evening at the Ciutedella port for next-level views and unparalleled seafood paella at Restaurant S'Amarador, and discover a fusion blending Menorcan ingredients with Japanese cuisine at Godai.
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Amelia Bell is the Senior Site Beauty Editor at ELLE UK, developing beauty strategy, writing, editing, and commissioning, and overseeing all beauty content for the site. Amelia has a particular interest in sustainable beauty practices, exploring the skin-mind connection, and decoding the latest treatments, tweakments and runway trends. She also has bylines for Women's Health, Refinery29, British Vogue, Harrods Magazine, and more.
