The weather in Menorca, the climate in the Mediterranean isn’t always what you imagine
You only arrived last night and know very little about the size of the island and all its possibilities. After a peaceful night in one of the town’s agritourism hotels, the sun rises majestically from the east. And the first thing you want to do on this fresh spring morning is to find a nice spot for a coffee, with a chance to sample some of Menorca’s famous confectionary. So, how about a quick car ride to discover the centre of Alaior for a few hours?
A morning of history
We suggest that you park the car away from the centre. Everything is relatively close by in Alaior, though, with most walks from one place to another taking no more than half an hour. There are various parking areas in different points of the town, so you should find a space easily.
Your first stop should be a coffee-stop, where you can enjoy typical sweet biscuits like our “crespells” or “pastissets”. If you prefer something savoury, try a delicious “flaó”! Make the most of your relaxed morning walk by also discovering in the town’s history, wandering through delightful cobblestone streets and old special spots. The carefully preserved facades of the townhouses in the centre blend perfectly with the historic buildings.
After breakfast, wander through the streets to find all those special places, such as “Sa Costa des Pou”, “S’Escopinya”, “Dalt ses Penyes”, the bridge on Sant Josep Street or “Es Pla d’en Borràs”. Do you fancy some shopping? Ramal Street is full of iconic and charming shops to browse in.
Another perfect morning visit is to the Sant Diego convent and Pati de Sa Lluna, which has recently been renovated. At present, the wonderful frescoes that cover the cloister walls, dating back to the late 18th century, are gradually revealing their secrets as they re-emerge.
It is also worth visiting the Town Hall during your morning stroll. One of the loveliest covered courtyards is located there, and you can learn a bit more about the town’s foundation in the year 1304 as well.
Another must-see in order to delve deeper into Alaior’s history is the Santa Eulàlia church. This was built on the highest point in the town and can be seen from the main road. It is the nerve centre of urban Alaior, dating back to the 14th century. With baroque and renaissance features, the temple of Santa Eulàlia also offers a wider perception of our history, with guided tours of some tunnels that were built for shelter during the Civil War.
Other points of interest are Can Salort, the current UIB university branch, the striking red building in Baixamar 56, the exhibitions held in the Capella de Gràcia chapel or the various windmills scattered around the whole town. These are features that will bring back fond memories of your visit.
Places to recharge the batteries in
Take your pick of various eateries in the town at lunchtime, ranging from little bars where you can sample delicious tapas made from local produce to landmark bars that have been going for a long time. Another option is to sit at an outside table in one of the squares in the centre and enjoy watching the world go, such as Es Ramal or the famous Plaça de la Constitució.
Enjoying the essence of nature in the afternoon
We’re sure you’d like to walk that lunch off in the afternoon, so why not enjoy a pleasant walk heading north of the town towards the cemetery? After crossing the historic centre, you’ll reach the Sant Pere Nou hermitage, yet another landmark that enhances the town’s rich heritage. The views from the land surrounding this hermitage are well worth the stop. You will walk along a little country road hemmed in by the island’s typical dry-stone walls that form a patchwork to separate the fields. The cemetery itself lies close to a crossing leading on to one of Menorca’s most famous roads: Kane’s Road, built during the British occupation to connect the two extremes of the island.
On your return, enjoy shopping for a few essentials such as wonderful traditional pastries to snack on the next day.
