Es Castell Holidays

Es Castell is a charming seaside town on Menorca’s southeast coast. It’s a relaxed, peaceful place that revolves around its harbours – Cales Fonts and Cala Corb. These two spots are where you’ll find bars, rustic eateries and souvenir shops selling ornate ceramics. Along both harbours, there are views across a sweeping bay, while a 15-minute drive brings you to Menorca’s capital, Mahon.

There’s no beach at Es Castell, but it’s just a 15-minute walk to Cala Padera. The coastline’s rocky in these parts, so this little cove has a V-shaped wooden platform to sunbathe on. You’re not far from a couple of sandy beaches, though – within 20 minutes’ drive there’s a broad stretch at both Punta Prima and the quieter Cala Alcaufar. Both come with sunloungers, umbrellas and tavernas.

The Balearic Island’s British colonial past gives Es Castell a distinct character. The tomato-red town hall on the main square once housed British troops and is now home to the Menorca Military Museum, while the ruined Fort of San Felipe and the underground stronghold of Fort Marlborough still stand guard over the town.

Mahon is just 15 minutes' drive up the road. This is the centre of Menorca’s two specialities – gin and shoes. There’s the 18th-century distillery where you can try free samples, and the Industrias Artesanas, a factory where you can watch fine leather shoes being made. Just a short stroll away is La Mola Fortress, a mid-18th-century Spanish fortress that’s in very good condition.