31 Meeting in a sublime Menorca

A visit to the Balearic Islands is not complete without seeing Menorca. So from the north point of Mallorca we set sail for Ciutadella. We had the sailors wish: bright sunny weather and quite a bit of beam reach so our cross over went fast and smooth.

Then Ciutadella: a lovely town dating from the sixteenth century and since then occupied by Moorish, Spanish and British inhabitants which all left their traces.

Walking through the narrow streets of the old Qashba you’d pass a corner and all of a sudden find yourself on a large square dominated by an impressive cathedral.

Every Spanish town has its Mercado, indoor markets in large halls. This very often results in impressive buildings with interesting architecture. Mostly one finds one or more restaurants to sample the super fresh delicacies with a glass of local wine. Needless to say we find this a very satisfying concept.

Menorca was the first of the Balearics to be inhabited, as early as 1000 BC the Talaiot built the first huts, to be followed by Fenicians, Romans and many others. Nowadays the eventful history of the Island can be seen in the large fortresses and walled city in Mahon, its capital.

Sailing into the port of Mahon is a lengthy affair for it is the largest natural harbour in the world. It was interesting to see the large container vessels and cruise ships pass within meters of our Kabaal.

Interesting as this city is we had an even better reason to visit for: we had a family visit from Madrid. Marta, Victoria and Albert came to stay with us and we spent a lovely time together exploring, sailing and swimming.

And here is the small video summary.