Guide to Es Castell

'Charming, intimate and peaceful, Es Castell blends fascinating history with traditional Menorcan living.'

As the sun rises in the East over the Mediterranean, life awakens around the Plaza de s'Esplanada, lined with quiet cafes and bars. Umbrellas pop up, chairs are unfolded and the tablecloths laid for another day of socialising over cards, the latest gossip and coffee. You can eat your breakfast unhurriedly and watch the market-stall vendors lovingly lay out their produce for sale. When you feel it's time to get up, step back in time in Es Castell and explore the town's rich heritage. Just off the main plaza, you can explore the former British barracks, now a museum, and find out why Es Castell became a garrison town. Visit the beautiful church of San Francisco and then take a trip to the nearby forts of Marlborough and Felipe. There are plenty of opportunities to ramble around the vibrant market, too, which sells traditional Menorcan foods and crafts like honey, glasswork and pottery. Pick up some traditional leather sandals or perhaps treat yourself to a new handbag. Hire a car and explore the ancient village of Trepuco nearby. You can gaze up in wonder at the prehistoric taulas, enormous T-shaped stone tablets that can be found in this part of the island. Like Stonehenge, they are shrouded in mystery as to their significance. When night falls, why not head for the little harbour of Calasfonts, where you can watch the boats bobbing on the horizon as you enjoy a chilled glass of rose or a slap up meal? And as the sun gets set for bed, take a stroll around the atmospheric night market, where you can buy handmade arts and crafts.

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