Sol del Este, Bay of Mahón (May 25)
The second half of our Menorca excursion — and the main reason for the trip — took us to the eastern side of the island to meet up with Emma’s old university friends, the Lancaster Crew.
The eight of us who came last year returned to Niki and Phil’s apartment and, just like last year, it was an absolute blast.
Son Bou Beach
Having two cars this year gave us the opportunity to explore further afield; so our first full day saw us head out to Son Bou beach, a gorgeous 3km stretch of white sand.
We found a nice spot and headed off for a swim before settling down to a meal at a restaurant overlooking the beach. Here we watched the sun set in a cloudless sky.
Being low season, the beach was pretty much empty but the water was more than warm enough for a swim.
Isla del Ray
Whilst in nearby Mahón, we headed by boat over to Isla del Ray.
Here we explored the remains of the 300 year old hospital which was originally built when the region was under British rule.
The entire island and hospital have been painstakingly restored over the past few decades in order to provide visitors with an idea of what it looked like when it was fully operational.
And, since our last visit a year ago, the upper floors have also been transformed into museum, offering a glimpse into Mahón’s incredible past. Some of these buildings have been turned into art galleries.
However, I suspect that many visitors pop over to this tiny island simply to enjoy the amazing restaurant – Cantina.
We did that too!
Cantina is idyllic, with tables placed under the trees within the confines of the hospital walls.
…And my plate of Octopus had to be the largest I’ve experienced anywhere – ever!
Back at Niki and Phil’s
It’s wonderful to wake up every morning to views like this.
The apartment is perched on the top of cliffs at the head of a tiny inlet, next to the deep natural harbour of Mahón, the deepest in the Mediterranean.
From here we spent most days relaxing, watching vessels of all shapes, sizes, design and age pass by.
We walked around the cliff top paths to the jetties on the other side.
Most evenings we wandered to the local village, Calafons. Here we were spoilt for choice, there being no shortage of restaurants and bars to spend the evening.
Having been here before it was all very familiar and we instantly felt at home.
Our final night
Our last night took us back to the “Blue Sky” rooftop cocktail bar.
And a special meal at one of the best local restaurants – Sa Punta.
The quality of the food here was off the scale. Not too pricey either. We highly recommend it.
My post meal gin was ridiculously large! I think the waiter either forgot he was pouring, or thought I was videoing and wanted to be a star! Either way RESULT…. Minorcan gin is gorgeous.
A huge thank you to Niki and Phil for hosting us and to the rest of the gang for creating some amazing memories!
A wonderful four days.