La Villa Company

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• Apr

  2
  

  Top 10 Virgin Beaches in Menorca

  Menorca is the most conserved of the Balearic Islands and was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993. The island´s landscape is beautiful, and its coastline, scattered with virgin beaches on both the south and north coast, is truly breath-taking.
  
  To follow, in no particular order as each is as beautiful as the next, are our top 10 virgin beaches that you must visit when staying at your Menorca holiday villa.

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  Cala Macarella – south coast
  White sand backed by pine forests and a crystal clear turquoise bay protected by high limestone cliffs is the picture of paradise you will find at Cala Macarella and its smaller sister beach, Cala Macarelleta. This is the one you see on the postcards!
   
  Binigaus Beach – south coast
  A short walk from Sant Tomás resort will bring you to the most visited virgin beaches on the south-central coast. Binigaus is where the flat coastal land joins the high cliffs to the south-west. The shallow water and the relatively easy walk to this beach is ideal for children.        
   
  Cala en Turqueta – south coast
  Fitting to its name, Cala Turqueta is a beautiful turquoise bay. This small white sand virgin beach is south of Ciutadella, and although less popular than Macarella and Mitjana, it is just as spectacular!
   
  Algaiarens Beach – north coast
  Situated 10km north of Ciutadella, Cala Algaiarens (also known as las playas de La Vall) is a large bay with transparent water and two beautiful white-sand beaches, Playa Del Tancats and Playa Des Bot.
   
  Cala Pilar – north coast
  Cala Pilar is a hidden shell-shaped bay on the north coast, with the tones of red rock and golden sand enhanced by the turquoise Mediterranean sea. The scenery en-route to this bay makes for a wonderful walk.
   
  Cavalleria Beach – north coast
  A few kilometres from Cavalleria lighthouse is Cavalleria beach, with thick-grained golden sand surrounded by rugged landscape with little vegetation. For those who enjoy snorkelling, Cavalleria forms part of Menorca´s protected Marine Reserve.
   
  Cala Mitjana – south coast
  Unsurprisingly the most photographed beach in Menorca, Cala Mitjana´s contrast of turquoise water, fine white sand, and green pine forests, induce a state of euphoria. This one is a definite must-visit!
   
  Cala Pregonda – north coast
  Cala Pregonda is probably the most original virgin beach on the island, with small islets protecting the golden sand. The inviting turquoise water is ideal for snorkelling and for those who like a challenge, Escull de Pregonda on the largest islet is a mini beach that can only be reached by swimming.
   
  Cala Tortuga and Cala Presili - north coast
  The 25-minute walk to reach Cala Tortuga and Cala Presili is well worth it. Fine white sand, crystal clear water, and a view of Favaritx lighthouse in the distance make these the most precious virgin beaches inside the S'Albufera de Es Grau natural park.
   
  Son Saura del Sur Beach – south coast
  The largest of the virgin beaches south of Ciutadella, Son Saura del Sur are two white sand beaches, Es Banyul and Bellavista, separated by a low rising rock formation. With relatively easy access from the car park and shallow water that feels like a warm bath, this is the perfect virgin beach to visit with children.
   
  So there you have it, just a few of the fantastic beaches Menorca has to offer, and the best part of all is that they all easily reachable from your Menorca holiday villa!

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• Mar

  19
  

  5 Must-Taste Menorcan Foods

  Tasting local food is part of the holiday adventure, and those who choose a Menorca holiday will not be disappointed with what the island has to offer! Here are a few of our must-taste typical Menorcan foods.

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  Ensaimada
  Originally from Mallorca, this light and sweet pastry can be found on all of the Balearic Islands and is a popular Menorca holiday gift to take home for family and friends. Readily available at most cafés and supermarkets, choose from a plain or cream-filled ensaimada to accompany your morning coffee...or cup of tea!
   
  Mahón Cheese
  For the cheese lovers, you must taste the trademarked Mahón cheese whilst on your Menorca holiday. Cheese making on the island dates back centuries, and today Mahón cheese is exported worldwide. This crumbly and dense cheese made from cow´s milk is sold at its different stages of maturity and is available at every supermarket on the island. Mahón cheese is also served as a platter, or as an accompanying sauce for fish and meat dishes at restaurants.
   
  Sobrasada
  A sausage made with pork, paprika, and other spices, sobrasada is the most popular cured raw meat produced on the island. It is used in several traditional recipes, however, for first-timers, a "bocadillo de sobrasada" or sobrasada with honey on toast will enable you to endeavour its distinctive taste.
   
  Pastissets
  Another popular Menorca holiday gift, pastissets are flower-shaped biscuits made from lard, egg yolks, water, sugar, and flour. Formerly served at Christmas and special occasions, nowadays these sugar-dusted cookies can be bought freshly baked every day at local bakeries and cafés.
   
  Rubiols
  Rubiols were originally served at Easter, however, like other traditional Menorcan foods, they are now readily available all year round. These semi-circle savoury pastries are stuffed with tuna or spinach with pine-nuts and raisins and are also available at cafés and bakeries.
  
  So, when you are on your next Menorca holiday be sure to tickle your taste buds with these delicious snacks!

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• Feb

  20
  

  How To Plan Your Menorca Holiday

  Visiting Menorca will be number one on many of our to-do lists when countries begin to open their borders. However, it has been so long since we have been able to travel that many of us will be out of practice when it comes to planning our Menorca holiday. This step-by-step guide will refresh your memory and get the ball rolling!

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  First thing's first, you have to choose a resort. There are so many reasons why we choose a particular destination... by recommendation from friends and family, those amazing pics on Instagram, that documentary on TV, the memories and experiences that draw us back to the same place year after year, etc, etc. Every resort on the island has its charm and offers something for everyone. 
  
  
  Now you know where you want to go, the next question is when do you want to go? Again, several factors are considered, school holidays, work commitments, the weather at that time of year, flight availability, etc. For this step, open your calendar app on your mobile, and it should be pretty easy to narrow down the dates to suit all!
  
  
  We now know where we are going and when we are going, and the next step, which perhaps is the one that takes a little longer, is choosing where to stay. If you are travelling as a family, a couple, or a group of friends, the ideal option without a doubt is self-catering accommodation. Nothing beats the privacy and independence offered by private villas and apartments in Menorca, where you will enjoy precious and intimate time in a space that is exclusively yours. So, pinpoint what is important to you and your group when it comes to accommodation, visit a trusted website such as La Villa Company or Simply Owners, filter the number of bedrooms and bathrooms and those must-have amenities, and voila! You will be able to scroll through a shortlist of beautiful pictures and enticing descriptions until you find the perfect Menorca rental. 
  
  
  Your Menorca holiday accommodation and booking flights come hand in hand. Many visitors make the mistake of booking a flight to later find that accommodation options are limited for those dates. Be sure to check that flights are available from your local airport on the same dates as your selected accommodation. Several airline companies fly to the island, Easyjet, Jet2, British Airways, Thomson, TUI, etc, therefore, you should find a combination that fits. Now that you have sourced your villa or apartment and your flights for the same dates, you can go ahead and book your holiday! 
  
  
  Time to get excited! The countdown begins, and as you now have the important things in place, you can start to plan what you are going to do. Watersports, winery tours, boat trips, shopping, dining, sightseeing, spas, beach tours, the list goes on. Take advantage of the time between booking your holiday and jetting off to paradise to explore what the island has to offer. Google and your Menorca villa rental agency will be your go-to guides for this! 
  
  And there we have it, 5 easy steps for planning your Menorca holiday!

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• Feb

  12
  

  5 Romantic Restaurants in Menorca

  With its relaxed pace of life, spectacular landscape and beaches, and warm climate, Menorca is without a doubt a wonderful destination for loved up couples. And to enhance this romantic mood, the island offers a fantastic selection of culinary experiences. If you are looking for somewhere to dine with that special someone whilst on your Menorca holiday, we have selected five from our list of romantic restaurants in Menorca.

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  Restaurant Pan y Vino
  Deserving of its inclusion in Spain´s Michelin Restaurant Guide, this traditional Menorcan country house has been converted into a fabulous restaurant run by husband and wife team Patrick and Noelia. French-inspired cuisine made with local Menorcan produce is served in an intimate garden setting.
   
  Restaurant Binifadet
  Wine tasting for two followed by a spectacular meal with vineyard views at Restaurant Binifadet is the definition of romantic restaurants in Menorca. Take a guided tour around the island´s most popular vineyard succeeded by a private tasting accompanied with local cheese and charcuterie. The charming ambience continues on its stylish vine-covered terrace where one can enjoy unpretentious cuisine, carefully selected to enhance the flavours of the wine.
   
  Restaurant Puig de Sa Roca
  Nestled away in the heart of the island, Restaurant Puig de Sa Roca is a magical place. The peaceful and tranquil atmosphere surrounding the enclosed courtyard creates a sense of relaxation and euphoria. Delicious dishes are served at tables placed around a swimming pool and decorated with fresh petals and candles. This option from our romantic restaurants in Menorca has all the trimmings! 
   
  Restaurant Ses Salines
  When looking for a dining experience with vistas, Ses Salines will not disappoint. With a unique front-line location at Fornells, this restaurant boasts wonderful bay views. The spacious open-air terrace overlooking the water is a fabulous surrounding for enjoying the Mediterranean cuisine on offer. 
  
  
  Restaurant Es Molí de Foc
  Occupying a 19th-century mill in the centre of Sant Climent village, Restaurant Es Molí de Foc is renowned for its rice dishes. Enter through the door of what seems like a village home into a restaurant decorated with large colourful artworks, and a delightful exterior courtyard. The overhead sails, trees, and bougainvillea climbing the walls, create a fabulous atmosphere for a special meal.
   
  If you are staying in a Menorca holiday rental with La Villa Company, please contact us and we will be more than happy to make your reservation for you.

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• Feb

  10
  

  Paddle Boarding in Menorca

  If you are looking for a fun activity to try when on holiday in Menorca, give stand up paddle boarding (SUP) a try!

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  Although a relatively new water sport to the island, its origins date back as early as 3000 BC, when fishermen stood on rafts made of reeds to travel across water. Over thousands of years, the paddle board has evolved, and modern-day paddle boarding was introduced by surfers in Hawaii in the 1940s.
   
  Gracefully gliding across the water on what looks like a surfboard and using a paddle to propel yourself is a wonderful concept, and unsurprisingly, this sport has become popular on the island. From Menorca beaches, you will see locals and visitors take to their boards to paddle over crystal clear turquoise waters in search of those hidden coves and virgin beaches!
   
  The great thing about this fun activity, which is essentially a combination of surfing and kayaking, is that it can be enjoyed by all ages. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced paddle boarder, you will love the experience!
   
  SUP boards (stand up paddle boards) can be rented for 1 hour, 2 hours, or even a full day. And for those that have never tried it before, excursions with experienced instructors are a great way to give it a go!
   
  There are several options when it comes to paddle boarding in Menorca. If you are staying at one of our Cala´n Porter villas, SUP is available directly from Cala en Porter beach, and for our villas in other areas, there are also options nearby:
   
  www.menorcaaventura.es - Calan Porter beach
  www.paddletourmenorca.com - Ciutadella area
  www.sportskayak.es - Binibeca area
  www.menorcaenkayak.com - Arenal d'en Castell

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• Feb

  5
  

  Cala en Porter

  Cala en Porter resort (also known as Calan Porter or Cala'n Porter) is one of the island's earliest tourist resorts and continues to be one of the most popular. Its beautiful cliff-top location on the south coast and proximity to the airport makes for a fantastic base for your Menorca villa holiday. Cala en Porter resort has much to offer, from its beautiful beach to its bars and restaurants run by friendly residents.

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  Beach
  The stunning Cala en Porter resort beach, with turquoise water, is protected by the cliffs and is ideal for families. There are several amenities available by the white sand; a free car park, a children's playground, a souvenir shop, and two snack bars serving local tapas, ice-cream and drinks. On the beach itself, sunbeds and umbrellas are on hire, and there are also pedal boats with water-slides for those who would like a leisurely ride around the bay and beyond.
   
  Restaurants and Bars
  The plaza in Cala en Porter resort centre, with a children´s playground and open play area, is surrounded by bars and restaurants serving local and international dishes. There are restaurants serving fresh fish and paella, Spanish tapas, British snacks, Indian cuisine and Italian ice-cream and pizzas. And for that after-dinner drink, families are welcome to enjoy evening entertainment and cocktails (or mocktails) at the open-air bars and terraces.
   
  Activities
  For those that are able to pull themselves away from the swimming pool at your holiday home, Cala en Porter resort is a good choice for activities for children. Backed by the countryside, the eastern perimeter of the resort has an outdoor basketball court, football pitch and skate-park. From here you can also access the popular Cami de Cavalls walking trail which meanders through the wonderful Menorcan countryside towards Cales Coves bay. For those a little more adventurous, kayaking, paddle boarding and boat hire can be enjoyed from the beach. Our post on Paddle Boarding in Menorca is an excellent source for a little more info. 
   
  Without a doubt, Cala en Porter resort is a fantastic choice for your Menorca holiday rental.
  For a wonderful selection of self-catering villas in Cala en Porter resort contact La Villa Company.

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• Jan

  9
  

  Camí de Cavalls with Kids

  Camí de Cavalls, the ancient horse trail which encircles Menorca, is a must-see when visiting the island. The 20 stages of the track offer breath-taking scenery that can be enjoyed by all, including the kids! So when you are on your Menorca family holiday, be sure to adventure out from your villa for a few hours and explore the Camí de Cavalls with kids. All four of these child-friendly walking routes are a fantastic way to explore Menorca´s natural beauty:

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  1. Punta Prima to Alcaufar: 2.7km, 30 minutes
  Starting at Punta Prima, a popular tourist resort on the south-east coast of the island, the route follows the coastline to the 18th-century defence tower at Alcalfar. A little further leads to the small but pretty beach at Cala Alcaufar. This is the perfect stop for a dip before heading back after this Camí de Cavalls with kids route. 
  
  2. Favaritx to Cala Tortuga: 1.7km, 25 minutes
  This excursion begins just before one of Menorca´s six lighthouses, Favaritx, and is inside the S'Albufera d'Es Grau National Park. After 10 minutes following the trail, you will reach a beautiful white sand and turquoise water Cala Presili. A further 15 minutes along the Camí de Cavalls brings you to wonderful Cala Tortuga. Be sure to stop and take in the panoramic views and a few photos of the Camí de Cavalls with the kids before heading downhill to the beach.
  
  3. Calan Porter Ravine: 4.4km, 50 minutes
  From the small wetlands at the back of Calan Porter beach, a small break in the dry stone wall marks the beginning of this inland route which winds through dry stone walls and pretty fruit trees. Although the Camí de Cavalls continues on to Son Bou (8km), it is possible to circle back to the entrance of Calan Porter resort. A lovely way to start the day for those staying in a Calan Porter villa rental, is to venture out on this section of the Camí de Cavalls with the kids before the sun is at its hottest.
  
  4. Cala Galdana to Cala Macarelleta: 5km, 50 minutes
  This route leads to those virgin beaches on the postcards! Starting at Cala Galdana resort, follow the easy trail through pine forests and along the cliff edge to idyllic Cala Macarella. However, don´t stop there, a further 5-minute walk leads to its sister beach, Cala Macarelleta. This section of the Camí de Cavalls with kids is a little longer than the others but definitely worth it! 
  
   
  Whether you decide to try all four of these routes or just one, you will not be disappointed!
  For further information feel free to contact us at La Villa Company.

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• Dec

  30
  

  12 Grapes for Luck!

  New Year´s Eve, known as Nochevieja in Spanish or Nit Vella in Menorcan, is when family and friends come together to welcome the year ahead. All over the world, people anticipate the twelfth chime of the clock on the 31st of December. However, in Spain, it is not just that last chime that counts. The Spanish commemorate each of the twelve bell chimes leading up to midnight by eating a grape! So what is the story behind this curious tradition?

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  Popular belief states that the massification of the "doce uvas de la suerte", translated as the twelve lucky grapes, began on New Year´s Eve 1909. A surplus crop of white grapes in Alicante led to the producers launching a sales campaign relating the grapes to New Year and as a symbol of good luck. From there on the white grape became synonymous with New Year´s eve across Spain and the sale of 12 pack grapes to be eaten on the last day of the year continues today. Marketing at it´s best! 
  
  The year 1909 marked the widespread of this custom, however its origin is thought to date back to the 19th century. In 1880 high society Madrid had copied the French custom of private Christmas parties, where one drank champagne accompanied with grapes, whilst the popular King´s Night street party for the lower class had been banned by the council. As an act of mockery and protest against the council restrictions, on New Year´s eve, the working class congregated at the Puerta del Sol square, which was still permitted, and they ate grapes! This traditional mocking of the upper class continued year after year until the mass marketing of the custom at the beginning of the 20th century. 
  
  So if you ever find yourself in Menorca or Spain on New Year´s eve and those around you are cramming a grape into their mouths at each chime leading up to midnight, you now know why!

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• Dec

  14
  

  5 Reasons For Choosing a Villa Holiday

  When it comes to holiday accommodation, there are so many benefits to staying in a villa. Whether you are going on holiday with family or friends, here are a few of the reasons a villa is the best option for you!

  When it comes to holiday accommodation, there are so many benefits to staying in a villa. Whether you are going on holiday with family or friends, here are a few of the reasons a villa is the best option for you!
  
  VALUE FOR MONEY
  Many think that renting a villa is expensive, however when you do the sums and compare one of our Menorca villas to a weeks stay in a hotel for the whole family, it becomes apparent that a villa with a private pool offers value for money, especially for larger groups and families. 
   
  PRIVACY
  Imagine relaxing and unwinding in your holiday villa after a busy day at the beach or sightseeing. No sharing the garden or swimming pool with other guests, just you and your loved ones in your private detached property.
   
  FLEXIBILITY
  That stressful rush in the morning to make it on time for breakfast or to reserve a sunbed by the pool won´t be part of your villa holiday. Instead, you can adapt your itinerary to suit you and your family. You have the option to eat in with the barbecue or to eat out and experience the wonderful restaurants that Menorca has to offer. You choose.
   
  HOME AWAY FROM HOME
  Our villas are appointed with all the comforts so that you can feel at home and relax. Fully equipped kitchen for those who enjoy cooking, TV to entertain the kids in the morning, WIFI to stay connected and share your holiday snaps with those back home, all in all, a wonderful space to create memories.
   
  SAFETY
  All of our villas are cleaned and disinfected between stays. You will have peace of mind knowing that you and your family are protected and will be the only people using your holiday accommodation and its facilities during your stay.

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• Apr

  13
  

  Camí de Cavalls Menorca - Menorca´s Horse Trail

  This ancient 185km trail that encircles the island is a must-see when visiting Menorca.

  With the original function of protecting the island from invasion, the trail connects the watchtowers, fortresses and cannons distributed along the picturesque coastline. Winding through the countryside and bordering the cliff edge, soldiers would use the track to transport artillery or patrol on horseback, hence the given name horses trail. For decades the path served a purpose, however, a time came when defending the island was no longer necessary, and in turn, the trail was left unmaintained and forgotten.
  
  Today, thanks to the Camí de Cavalls restoration project, hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers can travel right the way around the island (just as the soldiers once did) and enjoy the spectacular views. The trail is also wonderful for those who prefer a leisurely walk. If looking for a change to lazing by the pool in your Menorca holiday villa or apartment, the Camí de Cavalls will not disappoint. Each of the 20 stages of the trail, which stretch between 5km - 20km, boast authentic landscape and unspoiled beaches with turquoise waters, undoubtedly a walk to remember!

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• Mar

  13
  

  Menorca´s South Coast Beaches

  Scattered along the island´s south coast are breath-taking beaches with stretches of white sand and crystal clear water. To follow are some of La Villa Company´s favourites.

  Punta Prima
  On the southeast corner of the island, Punta Prima beach is located adjacent to the resort centre with a variety of restaurants, supermarkets and shops. The beach is ideal for families with shallow waters and rocks for exploring!
   
  Free parking     Sunbeds     Beach bar and restaurants     Supermarket and beach shops     Toilets     Showers     Children´s playground
  
  
  Binibeca
  On the southeast of the island, Binibeca is backed by pine trees that hideaway the resort villas, giving the sensation of a virgin beach. There is a narrow but deep sand area that merges with the turquoise waters that are protected by the "u" shaped bay. This beach is a favourite with families as most facilities are available.
  
  Free parking     Sunbeds     Beach bar and restaurant     Toilets     Showers     Picnic area     Water sports
  
  
  Cala en Porter
  Located on the southeast coast of the island, Cala en Porter has a fantastic beach and bay which is protected by the cliffs. The crystal clear water is very shallow and ideal for small children. All beach facilities are available on the promenade which runs directly from the car park to the sea.   
   
  Free parking     Sunbeds     Beach bars and restaurants     Beach shop     Toilets     Showers     Children’s playground     Water sports
  
  
  Son Bou
  Son Bou is the longest beach on the island, with 2.4km of white sand backed by protected dunes and wetlands. The bay is open to the sea, with a gentle slope and water with all shades of blue and turquoise that can get quite wavy when there are south and south-westerly winds. This beach is very popular with families, however, further from the car park and towards the west tends to be a little quieter.
   
  Free parking     Sunbeds     Beach bars and restaurants     Toilets     Showers     Water sports
  
  
  Santo Tomás
  Santo Tomás beach is 390m long with a "u" shaped bay and shallow waters that are ideal for children. Running parallel to the white sand is a pretty promenade with popular restaurants and children's playground. For those who prefer virgin beaches, walking further west will lead you to beautiful Binigaus.
   
  Free parking     Beach bars and restaurants     Water sports
  
  
  Cala Mitjana
  This unspoiled beach with vivid blue waters and pine-topped cliffs is a must see. The very shallow and protected water is ideal for children, however, the car park near the beach fills up quickly during high season and visitors have to walk 1km to reach the beach from neighbouring Cala Galdana.
   
  Toilets
  
  
  Cala Galdana
  Located on the south-west coast of the island Cala Galdana is well protected by its half-circle bay. All facilities offered by resort beaches are available as well as boat trips to neighbouring Cala Mitjana to the east and Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta to the west.
   
  Free parking     Sunbeds     Children’s playground     Beach bars and restaurants     Beach shop     Toilets     Showers     Water sports
  
  
  Cala Macarella
  Cala Macarella is a virgin beach and one of Menorca's most photographed bays. The natural white sand and crystal clear water are truly blissful. Parking at the beach is prohibited from June to September, however, a frequent bus service operates between the beach and Ciutadella.
   
  Toilets     Restaurant

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