THE ISLAND - MENORCA

Menorca, the most tranquil of the Balearic Islands was declared a Unesco biosphere reserve in 1993, aiming to preserve environmental areas such as the Parc Natural S'Albufera d'es Grau wetlands and the island's unique archaeological sites.

The untouched beaches, coves and ravines around its 216km coastline allow the more adventurous the occasional sense of discovery! This must be one of the few places left in the Mediterranean where it is possible to have a beach largely to yourself in summer.

The second-largest and northernmost of the Balearics, Menorca also has a wetter climate and is usually a few degrees cooler than the other islands. Particularly in the off-season, the "windy island" is relentlessly buffeted by tramuntana winds from the north.

As well as boasting beautiful scenery, stunning vistas, azure blue waters and delicious beaches, Menorca also offers something for the pleasure seeker. While notably quieter than its other Balearic counterparts, thriving nightlife scenes can be found throughout the Island catering to the more party oriented set! Hopping bars, amazing restaurants and bustling street nightlife all wait for the exploring traveler!

THE RESORT - S'ALGAR

The resort of S'Algar is located on the southeastern tip of the island of Menorca. Home to some of the Mediterranean's best diving locations, quiet and low key nightlife, it offers something for everyone. Take a stroll by night along the waterfront path that skirts the resort through palm trees, and gaze out under the moonlight to the sea. Go snorkeling and explore the underwater delights of S'Algar's rocky peninsula. Enjoy a fine dining experience at the S'Algar poolside restaurant, rated as one of the island's top eateries. Amble through small walkways to enjoy a relaxing drink in the social atmosphere of the Reina Isabel bar and restaurant. Or just chill out by the pool front with a good book and bask in the glorious sunshine and cool breeze that this part of the island is famous for. S'Algar has something for everyone.

A purpose-built resort that has carefully controlled its development over the last 30 years, S'Algar holds a unique place on the island. Appealing to a more mature clientele and families, it provides an excellent base to unwind and relax, or to explore the rest of the island. Though decidedly low-key in its nightlife, it provides a lush ambience and a selection of good restaurants and bars to while away your time. Although lacking a sandy beach, an amazing "Sea Pool" has been created out of S'Algar's sea front. Open to the sea at one side, the bay allows you to swim in the beautiful blue waters of the resort. Pick up a snorkel mask and tube at one of the local shops and you will be amazed at what you will see! In addition there is a sea front freshwater pool for enjoy, together with areas for topping up that tan. A poolside snack bar and cafe ensures that you never have to go too far for refreshment.

Venturing further into the resort reveals a varied selection of bars and cafes. In the main square, just 20 yards from the apartment featured in this offer, is the Reina Isabel bar and restaurant. Here you can enjoy morning coffee, a lunch time snack or a full evening meal, followed by an evening spent with new found friends in the welcoming atmosphere!

S'Algar has it all. But should you want more, its enviable position means you are never too far away from anything. A 10 minute drive takes you to the larger town of San Luis; 15 minutes takes you tothe capital, Mahon. And within 20 minutes drive of S'Algar alone you will be able to find countless restaurants offering all kinds of delicacies, local or otherwise. For beaches, a 10 minute walk on the cliff path will take you to the sleepy town of Cala Alcaufar. 25 minutes in the car opens up an enormous choice of beaches spreading along the southern coast of the island. You're never too far away from anywhere! With a trip to the old capital of Ciutadella, located at the far western end of the island, taking only 40 minutes by car, the island is your vacation playground.

THE CLIMATE

Welcome to the sun! Welcome to cool, gentle sea breezes. Hello to glorious tropical nights to stroll along the sea front. Whatever your taste in weather, Menorca holds something for you!

The Mediterranean coast as a whole, including the Balearic Islands, gets a little more rain than Madrid, but makes up for this with glorious sun that quickly re-appears to banish the memory of any passing shower. Despite the small size of Menorca, when a weather system arrives in one resort area, another resort only a 20 minute drive away can be bathed in sunshine that makes you think you could be on a different island!

Temperatures from April to June climb slowly from the low 70s to early 80s, ascending towards a consistent high 80s-low 90s through the summer months of July and August. September brings slightly more variation, with average temperatures alternating between the mid 80s and mid 90s, cooled by the balmy trade winds blowing into the coastal towns. The waters here are also warmer than on the mainland, averaging 75F in June and October, up to 80F in August. Warmed by the brilliant sunshine, Menorca's beaches provide a long swimming season for those who enjoy limpid, azure waters to relax and float their day away!