
Overview of our trip
Of all the Balearic Islands, Menorca is the most peaceful and low-key. It’s still full of style, but in a more laid back, rustic-chic way compared to the flashiness of Ibiza or the busy buzz of Majora. Stays tend to be in “fincas” set on farm estates, rather than in big 5* hotels. There are plenty of pretty beaches to choose from, along with some great dining and drinking destinations. And Menorca is home to one of only a handful of Hauser & Wirth art galleries in the world, this one set on its own island! Menorca is an island for taking your time, tuning into nature and savouring each glass, bite and view.
Stay
FINCA TORRE VELLA (part of Fontenille Collection)
Our base for this trip was Finca Torre Vella, part of the beautifully curated Fontenille collection. Set just outside the town of Alaior, the estate sits in a pocket of wild countryside dotted with vineyards, lavender fields and olive groves. There’s a real sense of calm the moment you arrive.


The finca has a rustic yet refined style, with old stone buildings sympathetically restored to preserve their original charm. Interiors are airy and simple—whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, linen curtains—and the occasional antique or sculptural light fixture gives each space character. We stayed in one of the rooms with a private terrace, which looked out across rows of grapevines and was the perfect place for morning coffee or a glass of chilled rosé in the late afternoon.



The finca’s restaurant is housed in a former stable and retains its original stone walls and vaulted ceilings, now softened with flickering candlelight and vintage glassware. The menu celebrates local, seasonal ingredients—vegetables from the garden, cheese from nearby farms, seafood from the coast. A real highlight was one of the vineyard dinners. Long communal tables were set up beneath lights in the vines and we were served a multi-course meal paired with Fontenille’s own wines.

There’s also a peaceful pool area with loungers tucked between olive trees, a small treatment cabin for massages, and walking trails that wind through the estate. For anyone looking to properly unwind in a natural yet stylish setting, this is a great place.


Do
HAUSER & WIRTH
Hauser & Wirth Menorca is a contemporary art gallery set on Isla del Rey, a few minutes across the water from Mahón harbour. The short boat ride feels like part of the experience, with white sails fluttering, seabirds overhead and the coastline stretching behind you.


Once docked, you’ll walk through a landscaped sculpture garden filled with native grasses, wildflowers and contemporary installations. The galleries themselves are housed in beautifully restored 18th-century naval buildings. There is a series of different exhibitions, so check to see what is on when you visiting.


There’s also a lovely on-site restaurant called Cantina. It’s worth booking a table in advance to enjoy lunch on the terrace, with local seafood, organic vegetables and natural wines all served up with a sea view.

SON BOU BEACH
Son Bou was our favourite beach. A wooden boardwalk meanders over the protected dunes to reach the soft, golden sands, with a gently curving shoreline and clear, shallow waters. You’ll find a couple of beach bars dotted around if you need refreshments, but for the most part, Son Bou keeps things simple: sun, sand, sea and space to breathe.


Dine
EXPERIMENTAL
Set in a former 19th-century finca, Experimental Menorca is a design-forward hotel with interiors by Dorothée Meilichzon. We headed here for dinner one night and liked it so much we went back a second time. It has the playful, colourful yet elegant style which is the signature of the Experimental Group.
The menu is Mediterranean and inventive. Everything was fresh and beautifully presented, with wines from small Balearic producers and excellent cocktails to start. Definitely one to book ahead.


SANTA POSA (part of Fontenille Collection)
Santa Posa is a restored 17th-century palace tastefully tranformed into a luxury hotel and restaurant. Like its nearby sister hotel, Torre Vella, Santa Posa is located set on a finca, a traditional country estate. We came here one night for dinner and loved the setting, with soft lighting, historic stone walls, a trickling fountain. The menu highlights produce from their own gardens. The atmosphere is calm, intimate and more traditional compared to the contemporary style of Torre Vella.

BINIFADET
Binifadet is a working winery with a lovely restaurant set on its grounds. The shaded terrace overlooks the vines, and the food pairs perfectly with their own bottles. Expect dishes like zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta and local cheeses served with homemade fig jam. It’s relaxed, laid-back and charming. After lunch, you can take a short stroll around the vineyard or pop into the cellar shop.

Drink
COVA DEN XOROI
Cova d’en Xoroi is one of Menorca’s most iconic bars—and for good reason. Built into the cliffs near Cala en Porter, this is a natural cave turned bar, with multiple terraces carved into the rock face and uninterrupted views over the Med.
We went for sunset cocktails, and it was spectacular. The colours changed from deep gold to soft pink as music drifted through the air and the waves crashed below. It does get busy, so we’d recommend arriving early or booking a table if you want the best seats.



Why a trip to Menorca?
Menorca is a slower, softer version of island life—full of charm, natural beauty and low-key luxury. It’s ideal for those who want to spend their days wandering beaches and vineyards, discovering art in unexpected places, and dining in stylish yet unpretentious restaurants. With less of the party scene and more time for golden hour swims, shared meals under the stars and design-led hotels, it’s a dream destination for travellers looking for quiet sophistication.