Menorca Musings

Menorca on Two Wheels

After luxuriating on the beach or on the terrace of your villa for a few days, you might be ready to stretch your legs a little. Luckily, Menorca has many miles of cycling paths, tracks, and roads suitable for everyone from casual riders to hard-core mountain bikers. You can hire a bike at most major beach resorts for about ten euros a day, and many offer per-week deals. Just strap on a helmet (Spanish law requires it) and pedal off to explore this endlessly surprising island.

Menorca is perfect for a cycling holiday

For Casual Cyclists

If a slow, easy ride is what you’re looking for, you’re best off sticking to paved country lanes, which have little traffic – particularly in the spring before the high tourist season reaches a climax. The gently rolling Menorcan landscape should be manageable for most riders, and you’re sure to encounter many charming hamlets and churches along the way should you need a place to rest. Another good option for casual, rural riders is a new route that traverses the interior of Menorca, passing through larger towns like Alaior, Es Mercadal, and Ferreries.

For a more urban change of pace, try cycling in Mahon or Ciutadella. These two major Menorcan cities have well-organised cycle path networks that enable cyclists to explore the narrow streets of their respective old towns, which are inaccessible to cars.

There is terrain for both serious and casual cyclists

For Serious Cyclists

Menorca can also accommodate those looking for a more vigorous ride. The Cami de Cavalls is a great favourite with cyclists and walkers alike. This 115-mile unpaved bridle path, which originally served defensive purposes, runs around the perimeter of the island, offering spectacular sea views as well as access to some of Menorca’s most secluded beaches.

The more competitive may want to try their hand (and foot) at the Tour of the Lighthouses Race, which is held every May by the Cycling Association of Menorca. The sprawling 130-mile route visits several of the lighthouses located around the island’s coastline before finishing with a steep climb up Monte Toro. Of course, you don’t have to be a competitor to cycle all or part of this stunning route!