Discovering north coast of Menorca

Sailing from Mahón to Ciutadella following the north coast

The island of Menorca forms part of the Balearic archipelago. The prevailing wind is the Tramontana, to which we owe its pleasant summer temperatures although not as high as in the rest of the Balearics. The island boasts numerous archaeological sites, many of them in good condition.

Sailing along the north coast of Menorca can be treacherous as the high winds can occasionally cause problems for new sailors. The island offers a rugged coastline, and the coves and inlets between the cliffs adorn the landscape. The coast has been exploited very little allowing us the opportunity to enjoy the magnificent coves and landscape in solitude.

Once we leave Mahón and sail towards Ciutadella to explore Menorca from the North, the first cove we find is Cala Mesquida, a classic summer retreat for Menorquin residents thanks to its little amount of tourist activity. The surrounding area boasts the military compound of La Mola which dominates the entrance to the Port of Mahon and from which you have a panoramic view of the Castle of Sant Felip and the surrounding coastline.

The natural park of Albufera des Grau, with an abundance of fauna and archeological interest, starts at Cala des Grau. It serves as a shelter for boats with a draft of less than 3 metres and is protected by the Island d’en Colom. The beaches of Cala de Tamarells, Cala de Torreta, Cala Cavaller, Cala Morella Nou, S’Arenal de Morella and the Playa de la Tortuga also form part of the Natural Park. Playa de la Tortuga is also protected from the North winds by the Cape Favaritx. This is one of the least urbanized areas of the island and the beaches offer no services or amenities, therefore they are rarely visited and provide you with total peace.

When sailing from the Cape of Favaritx to the Port of Addaia, you will find numerous inlets forming small, sheltered coves like Cala Caldes, S’Enclusa and Mongofre. These places are ideal for diving enthusiasts as there are few swimmers and a couple of ship wrecks.

The entrance to the Port of Addaia is full of islets and rocks so it is recommended to enter during the day and to follow the buoys marking the entrance.

The area of ​​Arenal d’en Castell has grown considerably in recent years, turning it into the most urbanized area of the North of Menorca. A long circular beach runs from the village itself to the surrounding housing estates. A narrow entrance protects the area allowing you to anchor in its eastern side , which is a good alternative to Puerto Addai. Smaller boats can also enjoy a protected anchorage in Na Macaret beach located at the entrance to Puerto Addaia.

Once transferred the Mola Fornells Bay walked in, a must to try the famous lobster stew, we can build a walk in the wild yet Mola Fornells, on the promenade or visit Fornells Tower Sargantona Illa where get the best views of the area. Fornells Bay is a good shelter for the night, find moorings in the Port and the Marina with minimal services and Ses Salinas. And in the only Son Parc Golf Club on the island.

Before reaching Cape Cavalleria Cala Tirant pass by far is reaching the urban development of Fornells. The Cape of Cavalleria is the northernmost point of Menorca. Its beach is formed by two virgin coves and crystal clear reddish sand where nudists and may take a mud bath, is very popular with pleasure craft.

Leaving the beach Binimel-la, we find a series of little coves frequented Cala Pregonda, beautiful cove protected from the north winds by islets. Cala barrel through the Balearic Bledes. It is recommended the freo navigate between the Islands and Menorca due to low hurdles. Cala Calderer difficult land access which makes it a pristine and secluded cove. Ets Alocs Cala del Pilar and give way to the La Vall of dense forests and lush vegetation, high cliffs and pristine beauty. Gros Cap appears Passing the small creek out and after Punta Rotja, Cala Algaiarens consists of two beaches is a good anchorage, and Cala Cala Fontanelles S’Escala.

Since we meet again Cala Morell urbanized and tourist beaches. Cala Morell is sheltered from the winds, has a small jetty and can anchor in its western side. Their caves awaken the interest of lovers of geology. We Punta Nati and Cap de Menorca and before arriving there some curious coves Ciudadella elongated recommend visiting. Incoming narrow sea between rock walls and turquoise waters. We discussed Piques Cala, Cala en Forcat, Cala Cala en Blanes Brut and where small boats can find shelter.

And finally Citadel, where we can visit the Cathedral, the old town and taste typical local dishes in restaurants of its picturesque harbor. View our yachts in Menorca>>