Look beyond Menorca’s breathtaking beaches and you’ll find an island chock-full of history, tradition and culture. From colourful fiestas and fabulous food to handicrafts and works of art, it’s not hard to see why this wonderful island has long piqued the interests of so many. Ready to explore it for yourself?

Pick up some traditional avarcas

These comfortable, long-lasting shoes are a real staple in Menorcan footwear culture. Originally created by farmers, they were tailormade for use both in the field and barn. The skilled craftmanship of these shoes continues today, and you’ll find plenty of authentic shops selling them! If you do fancy picking up a pair, make sure you get quality ones made with proper leather.

Sample the local delicacies

You can expect loads of tasty local delicacies in Menorca thanks to its abundance of seafood and dairy farms. Start with caldereta de langosta, flavoursome lobster cooked in a tomato, onion and garlic sauce – it's almost like a soup. Best eaten with chunks of fresh crusty bread and sweeping views of the seafront, of course! Sobrassada, a type of smooth, cured sausage, is also another firm favourite.

Dance the night (and day) away at a Fiesta

Many local town’s fiestas in Menorca revolve around the Menorcan tradition of dressage, featuring the purebred Menorcan horses and their riders – a unique symbol of the island’s history and culture. You’ll find traditional food and drink, song, dance, flags and costumes. Fiesta season normally runs from late June to September.

Get stuck into some Mahón cheese

This crumbly cows’ cheese is a real island staple. The cheeses are used in all sorts of different ways – as a type of tapas to go with an aperitif, in cooked dishes, sweet pastries, or simply served alongside bread or fruit – just how the locals like it! It’s characterised by its distinct orange rind which gets its colour from oil and paprika.

Try the local tipple

Pomada is Menorca’s traditional party drink. Its classic proportions are one part gin to three parts fresh lemonade or lemon soda – a truly refreshing tipple for those balmy Menorcan summers. The simple recipe keeps costs low and makes it easy to prepare by the batch and share with others.

Bag some Menorca handicrafts

Menorcan locals take real pride in their traditional craftmanship, with skills and trades passed down from generation to generation. From leather goods to hand-carved wooden trinkets, you’ll find all the time-honoured techniques showcased in their marvellous creations. Why not pick up something as a souvenir? No two products are made the same, so you’re guaranteed to be taking home something that’s truly unique.