Es Mercadal Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful town of Es Mercadal in Menorca, Spain, with our comprehensive travel guide. Find the best things to do, places to stay, and local food and drinks to try.


Introduction to Es Mercadal

Nestled in the heart of Menorca, Es Mercadal is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous activities. With its picturesque lanes, historic landmarks, and vibrant markets, this town is a must-visit for those looking for an authentic Menorcan experience. In this travel guide, we have compiled a comprehensive list of things to do and places to visit in Es Mercadal, along with tips on where to stay and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Es Mercadal

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Santa María church - A beautiful 18th-century church with a Baroque façade and a stunning bell tower.
  2. Can Saura museum - showcases the history of Menorca and the local way of life
  3. Monte Toro - The highest point on the island that offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding area.

Natural Attractions of Es Mercadal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Cami de Cavalls - a 185-kilometer-long trail around the island, offering breathtaking coastal views and the chance to explore hidden coves and cliff-top paths
  2. Es Grau nature reserve - a birdwatcher’s paradise that is home to numerous species of birds.
  3. Algaiarens Beach - A beautiful, unspoiled beach that offers the perfect spot for getting away from it all.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Es Mercadal

  1. The Cami de Cavalls - a fantastic 185-kilometer-long trail that runs around the island and offers breathtaking coastal views.
  2. The Vereda de Pont d’en Gil - a four-kilometer trail that offers stunning views of the Coves Pregondó and Binimel·là beaches.

Best Things to Do in Es Mercadal: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a horseback ride along the Cami de Cavalls and explore the beautiful countryside
  2. Visit a local cheese factory and taste some of the best cheeses produced on the island
  3. Take a guided tour of the historic landmarks in the town and learn about the local culture and history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Es Mercadal

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic landmarks in the town center, including the Santa María church and the Can Saura museum
Day 2 Hike the Cami de Cavalls around the town and enjoy the stunning coastal views
Day 3 Go horseback riding along the countryside or take a guided tour of a local cheese factory
Day 4 Take a day trip to Mahón, the Menorcan capital, and explore its old town and harbor
Day 5 Visit the Algaiarens Beach and enjoy some relaxing time by the sea
Day 6 Explore the Es Grau nature reserve and go birdwatching
Day 7 Climb up the Monte Toro and enjoy the panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area

Food and Drink Scene of Es Mercadal

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Caldereta de ullastre (lamb stew) - a traditional dish made with lamb and local vegetables
  2. Arròs de la terra (rice with vegetables) - A rice dish that includes seasonal vegetables and meat or fish
  3. Sobrassada - A cured sausage made from minced pork, paprika, salt, and other spices

Local Beverages

  1. Pomada - a refreshing drink made with Menorcan gin and lemonade
  2. Xoriguer Gin - a locally produced gin made with juniper berries and other spices

Where to Stay in Es Mercadal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. White Sands Beach Club - A luxurious apartment complex by the sea that offers a swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant
  2. Hotel Es Mercadal - A charming, centrally located hotel that features traditional Menorcan architecture
  3. Hotel Artiem Carlos - A modern hotel with a wellness center and a swimming pool

What to Buy in Es Mercadal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. A bottle of Xoriguer Gin - A locally produced gin that is a must-try for gin lovers.
  2. Menorcan sandals - A sturdy yet stylish sandal that is perfect for summertime.
  3. Mahón cheese - A cheese that is particular to Menorca and has a unique tangy and salty flavor.

Local Culture and Customs of Es Mercadal

Menorca is famous for a variety of local customs, such as the annual fiestas held in honor of each town’s patron saint. In Es Mercadal, the festival takes place in late August, and it features traditional dance, music, and a parade of horses and floats.

Best Time to Visit Es Mercadal

The best time to visit Es Mercadal is during the summer (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with tourists and locals enjoying the festive atmosphere. However, spring and fall are also excellent times to visit since the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Es Mercadal

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Try the local food and beverages, such as Menorcan gin and Mahón cheese.
  3. Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the town and the countryside.

Don’t:

  1. Leave trash behind when hiking in natural reserves or on beaches.
  2. Swim in prohibited areas due to safety regulations.
  3. Disrespect the local way of life or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Es Mercadal

Es Mercadal is a safe town, but as with any travel, it is essential to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash. Hikers and tourists should also be cautious when exploring the natural reserves and follow the safety regulations established in each area.

Health in Es Mercadal

Es Mercadal has a primary health center where visitors can receive medical attention, and the island also has a hospital in Mahón for more serious health issues. It is essential to have health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad before traveling to Menorca.

Getting to Es Mercadal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Es Mercadal

Menorca Airport (MAH) is located about 20 minutes from Es Mercadal and offers domestic and international flights from major cities in Europe.

Bus Stations Near Es Mercadal

The town has a well-connected bus station that allows fast and easy access to other parts of the island.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available in Es Mecadal.

How to Get Around in Es Mercadal

Walking is the best way to explore the town center, but renting a car or a scooter is the best way to go sightseeing and to visit other parts of the island.

Where to Go Next from Es Mercadal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Mahón - The capital of Menorca, home to a beautiful old town, a harbor, and lots of bars and restaurants.
  2. Fornells - A picturesque fishing village known for its delicious lobster stew
  3. Ciutadella - A charming town on the west coast of Menorca, rich in history and culture.

Conclusion

Es Mercadal is a beautiful town that offers travelers an authentic Menorcan experience, from its picturesque lanes and historic landmarks to its stunning natural reserves and local cuisine. With this travel guide, visitors can explore the town’s best attractions, find the best places to stay and eat, and discover the local culture and customs of this charming town.

Carrer Major 001 (with town hall) Carrer Major 001 (with town hall) Es Mercadal (Aljub) Es Mercadal (Aljub) Pregonda beach, in the Mercadal Pregonda beach, in the Mercadal Jaleo in Mercadal Jaleo in Mercadal