Geography
The island of Menorca, covering an area of 702 km2 and with 216 km of coastline, is divided into two very different regions. The north of the island is the wildest part, with red sand beaches and extremely beautiful landscapes. The south is much gentler, with coastal cliffs, pine covered gullies and golden sand coves.

Climate
Typically Mediterranean, Menorca's mild climate is notable for its gentle temperatures: the yearly average is around 17ºC. There is little rain, especially in the summer. At this time of year there is always a gentle breeze. But you should bear in mind that, due to its geographic location and relative flatness, cool north winds, commonly called "Tramuntana” frequently blow across the island.

Population
Menorca has a population of approximately 70,000, distributed in its eight towns. Maó to the east and Ciutadella to the west are the largest and also mark the maximum distance between points on the island: 47 km.

Biosphere Reserve
The "Biosphere Reserve" denomination is awarded by UNESCO to places on our planet with important natural and cultural heritage, and where society has also made a commitment to economic development compatible with the conservation of nature. To date, UNESCO has selected 411 places in 96 different countries as Biosphere Reserves and each year new nominations are evaluated.

The island of Menorca was declared Biosphere Reserve in 1993 for the diversity of its Mediterranean landscapes and the presence of animals and plants exclusive to the island, some in danger of extinction. It also valued the existence of a traditional rural environment of immense scenic value and the presence of important archaeological and ethnological heritage. The heart of the Menorcan Biosphere Reserve is the s'Albufera des Grau natural park.

Fiestas
Menorca's expressive fiesta culture is something that should not be missed. The most traditional of the fiestas is that of Sant Joan and it attracts thousands of visitors each year. The horse plays the central role in all the popular fiestas held throughout the Menorcan summer. From June to September, you can see the horses and their riders, the first dressed in white and black and the second decorated with multicoloured ribbons, embroidery and multi-coloured carnations, each year reliving a ritual that originates from the start of the 14th century.

Monuments
In Menorca you can find more than 2000 prehistoric, Roman, Paleochristian and Arab monuments. The archaeological sites are so numerous they form part of the island's landscape and represent an unquestionable cultural and historic attraction. It is an authentic open-air museum. The "Taules", a name the locals give to the T-shaped stone monuments, characteristic of the island, are incredible. Allow yourself to be immersed in a feeling of grandeur.

Handicrafts and trade
Arts and crafts developed in Menorca due to isolation and necessity. Jewellery, today one of the main island industries, is particularly significant. It is internationally recognised in the Sebime group and the Eurobijoux fair, which gathers the main companies from the sector each year in Menorca. The footwear manufactured in Menorca is also internationally renowned because of its quality and design. A very traditional product, which is totally hand made, is of particular interest: the avarca, ancient footwear of the country folk. Ceramics, painted fabrics and furniture making and restoration are other important craft activities.