Menorca to Cala'n Forcat Transfer

This purpose-built town first popped its head above the radar in the Eighties. It teamed up with close neighbours Cala’n Blanes and Los Delfines, and together they woke up this sleepy part of Menorca’s west coast, in the Balearic Islands. It may not be buzzing by Ibiza’s standards but the British bars and restaurants keep the nightlife lively.

Miniature beach

You’ve got a finger of golden sand that’s tipped by turquoise waters here. Rocky ridges on either side make great sunbathing platforms, and they also double up as dive-off spots for snorkellers. This little cove is great for children as the water stays calm and shallow a long way out. For a bit more space, head for the beach at Cala’n Blanes. Cala'n Forcat is a deep inlet set on a dramatic coastline of rugged rocks. There are numerous concrete bathing platforms from which to swim, although sandy beaches can be found at Calas Piques and Cala Brut. Nearby Cala'n Blanes has a small beach of fine sand, backed by palm trees.

A family welcome

At Cala’n Forcat, the restaurants really appreciate that children have a low boredom threshold, so as well as offering menus that pass inspection by the younger ones, they also lay on play areas and bouncy castles. And the fun factor continues throughout the town with trampolines, mini-golf, playgrounds and a waterpark.

Top attractions

AQUA CENTER

Menorca only has a couple of waterparks, so it’s handy that this one is right on your doorstep. There are 4 main slides, a whirlpool and a dedicated children’s area, plus you’ve got dry-side activities with a karting track, bouncy castles and trampolines. The on-site restaurant covers paella and pizza, and there’s a grassy area for sunbathing. Entry costs less after 1 pm.

Easy day trips to Ciutadella

Ten minutes’ drive and you’re in Ciutadella, known as Vella I Bella – the Old and the Beautiful. As you walk the cobbled streets you’ll stumble upon elegant palaces – a reminder of the city’s former glory as of the island’s capital – and myriad churches and museums. There’s also the cathedral, said to be the largest Gothic building in Menorca, and a marina lined with cafés and restaurants.

Best restaurants

You’ll find most of the restaurants on Avinguda Los Delfines, the main street that runs through the 3 resorts. Fish gets a good look-in, especially swordfish, sea bream and squid, while the kids’ menus do a good line in macaroni and spag bol. El Abuelo is the top spot for ice-cream sundaes – sparklers included.

SA CALDERETA, LOS DELFINES

It’s worth the 20-minute walk to get to this family-owned restaurant. The place has been going for the best part of 20 years so they know their stuff. People rave about the Menorcan speciality caldereta de langosta – it’s a thick lobster casserole with tomatoes, onion, garlic and herbs. The food comes with friendly service, and of course, there’s a top kids’ menu too.

LAS BRASAS GRILL

Set a little way back from the road, Las Brasas is easy to overlook. You’ll be glad you found it, though, when you see the huge paellas they serve here. The menu also runs to some delicious pork and lamb dishes, cooked in a traditional clay oven to seal in the flavour. You can pick from the à la carte, or there’s a 3-course set menu for just under 18 euros.