Just a 15-minute drive from Menorca’s capital, this quieter resort town more than makes up for not having a beach on its doorstep
While the island of Menorca has become synonymous with beaches, there is one town on its eastern side that breaks the mould. Despite being a lively and attractive holiday town, the one thing this resort destination is missing is a beach.
Es Castell’s significant British colonial history and exceptional seafood restaurants will however ensure travellers won’t feel they are missing out on anything. What’s more, there are still sandy beaches and secluded coves to explore, you just need to know where to look. Situated at the mouth of Port Mahon, just a couple of miles from Menorca’s capital, Mahon, it has become a beloved family holiday destination among Brits who have discovered it.
The town was actually founded by British colonialists in 1771 and has a history of being a strategic base for the British Army given its position at the mouth of the Mediterranean’s largest natural harbour. This British heritage is still visible throughout the town, most obviously in the Georgian-style red town hall in the main square which once housed British troops. Today, the town hall is home to the Menorca Military Museum. But there is so much more to Es Castell than its British history. The town proudly celebrates its rich Spanish heritage, most emphatically through its cuisine and fishing traditions.
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The town has two inlets, Cala Fonts and Cala Corb, where small wooden fishing boats can be found bobbing along most days. Naturally, the busy seafront around these inlets are lined with restaurants and bars where travellers can sample the town’s freshest offerings.
Es Castell is known as a hub for food enthusiasts for its plethora of fine dining restaurants showcasing specialities from all over Menorca, including Mahon cheese. Travellers can expect to enjoy the finest seafood fare and traditional Balearic tapas no matter which one of the 30 restaurants and bars along the harbour they choose to frequent.
But what does the town have to offer those who want to get closer to the water? While there is no beach at Es Castell, it is only a 15 minute walk to Cala Padera. Just south of the town, Cala Padera is a small rocky cove where travellers can finally enjoy a dip in the water.
While relatively small (only 50 metres) and surrounded by rocky cliffsides, the Cala Padera is sheltered from wind and crowds and fitted with wooden platforms for easier access. Travellers looking for a proper sand beach with all the modern conveniences of sunbeds and loungers have a few options, but will need to trek a little further.
Punta Prima is a beautiful white sand beach and only a 20-minute drive from Es Castell. But keep in mind, being one of the few sand and highly accessible beaches on the southside of the island, it can get very busy. Those looking for a more secluded spot can also head to Cala Alcaufar. This cove offers access to crystal clear water in addition to all the modern conveniences of public toilets and parasol rentals. Cala Alcaufar is less than a 20-minute drive from Es Castell. Even if you’re not keen to travel outside of Es Castell, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the water. Water taxis and boat rentals are available to travellers, and frequently run to Mahon harbour for anyone wanting to explore the island’s capital.