Menorca, Spain, is one of the Balearic Islands and gets its name from the fact that it is the smaller than its neighbour, also appropriately named, Majorca. Like most islands in Spain it enjoys a lovely climate, plenty of history to get your teeth into and relatively cheap package holidays on offer. But what is it uniquely about Menorca that makes it so popular among British tourists? This article, far from providing an exhaustive list, looks at a few of those reasons.
One reason is certainly the fact that the culture on the island is one that anyone, including tourists, can take part in. In the summer - autumn months of the year (May - October) though this is the busiest time, it is the best period to visit the island because of the countless celebrations and festivals that go on during that time. These are the peak months of the year, but this island rarely gets as packed as its neighbour (and other Spanish destinations) so no matter the time of year it is always relaxing to stay here.
Perhaps the most popular of these festivals is the Festes de la Mare de Du de Graciam which occurs on the 23rd of June in Ciutadella. On the first day the locals and tourists alike gather round to watch the spectacle of marchers, dancers, and horse riders march up and down the streets. Then in the evening of that same day everyone has a mock fight of throwing hazelnuts at each other. It is rare to see, and be able to take part in, such a vibrant display of pride and joy.
The fascinating history of this island must be another reason so many British tourists love it. It reaches right back to ancient times, for there can be found on the island megalithic stone monuments. And the history of the island is also tied up in British history by the fact that Britain took control of the island for nearly a century, and there are many influences that show this, including architectural.
As should be clear from this short list Menorca has a lot to offer British tourists. Not only does it have all the wonderful climate and culture of other Spanish destinations, but it offers a great way to get involved in that culture, and also some history that is directly related to Britain, as well as the ancients.
One reason is certainly the fact that the culture on the island is one that anyone, including tourists, can take part in. In the summer - autumn months of the year (May - October) though this is the busiest time, it is the best period to visit the island because of the countless celebrations and festivals that go on during that time. These are the peak months of the year, but this island rarely gets as packed as its neighbour (and other Spanish destinations) so no matter the time of year it is always relaxing to stay here.
Perhaps the most popular of these festivals is the Festes de la Mare de Du de Graciam which occurs on the 23rd of June in Ciutadella. On the first day the locals and tourists alike gather round to watch the spectacle of marchers, dancers, and horse riders march up and down the streets. Then in the evening of that same day everyone has a mock fight of throwing hazelnuts at each other. It is rare to see, and be able to take part in, such a vibrant display of pride and joy.
The fascinating history of this island must be another reason so many British tourists love it. It reaches right back to ancient times, for there can be found on the island megalithic stone monuments. And the history of the island is also tied up in British history by the fact that Britain took control of the island for nearly a century, and there are many influences that show this, including architectural.
As should be clear from this short list Menorca has a lot to offer British tourists. Not only does it have all the wonderful climate and culture of other Spanish destinations, but it offers a great way to get involved in that culture, and also some history that is directly related to Britain, as well as the ancients.
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