Declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993, Menorca stands apart from its Balearic neighbours because of its numerous contrasts. It is an island where old and new, town and country exist contentedly alongside each other and where tourism thrives without compromising on the island’s natural beauty.

Menorca’s 134 miles of coastline make it a cruising mecca for both yachts and motorboats, as well as fishermen, windsurfers and scuba divers - with more than enough crystal sea and fine sandy coves satisfy all many of watersports enthusiasts share. A mere 12 miles apart, the north and south coasts contrast and complement each other.

Southern beaches tend to slope gently towards the sea, with long stretches of fine, sugary sand, overlooked by pine trees. The north coast suffers at the hand of harsh winter winds, and as such, it is characterised by rugged cliff faces scattered with trees bent double by the gusts of wind – but these steep rocks also serve to protect the handful of isolated coves and secluded patches of sand that only sailors or keen walkers ever get to visit.

Menorca doesn’t cease to surprise, it is an island just waiting to be discovered.