Macarelleta Beach in Menorca
Credit : Julen Arabaolaza
Easily accessible from Madrid by a short 1.5-hour flight , Menorca may be physically near Madrid , but spiritually , it might as well be on the other side of the world . The island is favored with more than 100 beaches ranging from hidden coves like Cala Macarella to long stretches of white sand like Son Bou . It also counts crystal-clear waters , ideal for snorkeling and diving , among its many natural blessings .
Despite its formidably favorable natural attributes , Menorca is more than simply a sun and sand destination . Brimming with history , the island boasts over 1,500 sites from which to explore Menorca ’ s prehistoric civilization vis-à-vis ancient Talayotic structures spread across the isle . There is also an ancient coastal path encircling the island , which offers exceptional hiking , cycling , and horseback riding opportunities , as well as the ancient stone quarries of Lithica , which have been transformed into a cultural space with labyrinthine gardens , sculptures , and event venues .
Menorca even has many gastronomic delights , including local products , such as Mahón cheese made from the island ’ s unique cow ’ s milk and Xoriguer gin distilled with local botanicals . So , suffice it to say , Menorca is far more than the sum of its splendid beaches .
Whether you ’ re seeking relaxation , adventure , or a chance to connect with nature , Menorca offers an idyllic getaway that perfectly complements the vibrant energy of Madrid .
From its fascinating history to its world-class art scene , iconic landmarks , and culinary delights , Madrid is a city where past and present coexist in perfect harmony rather than collide . As a gateway to Spain , Madrid opens the door to even more adventures , including the serene beauty of Menorca . So , if you haven ’ t said ‘ Hola ’ to Madrid recently ( or ever ), then perhaps it ’ s time you did because Madrid is waiting to captivate your heart and soul .
El Retiro Park is often referred to as one of the green lungs of Madrid , is a favorite among Madrileños and tourists alike . A vast oasis of tranquility , the park features a multitude of beautifully landscaped gardens , including Jardín de Vivaces , Jardines de Cecilio Rodríguez , Jardines del Arquitecto Herrero Palacios , and the Rosaleda rose garden , a bevy of monuments , chief among them , the Velázquez Palace and Glass Palace , the Monument to Alfonso XII , and the statue of the Fallen Angel , the only sculpture in the world dedicated to the devil which funnily enough sits precisely 666m above sea level ; and an artificial lake .
GATEWAY TO SPAIN : MENORCA
Madrid is a gateway to the rest of Spain , making it an ideal starting point for exploring the country ’ s diverse regions . From Madrid , visitors can easily embark on day trips to neighboring cities such as Toledo , Segovia , and Aranjuez , each offering its unique charms and cultural heritage .
The city is also an excellent jumping-off point for a visit to one of the Balearic Islands — Ibiza , Mallorca , Formentera , or Menorca — all of which provide a perfect foil to the pace of the city . This is particularly the case concerning Menorca , which is the least commercial and touristy of the islands .
GETTING THERE :
IBERIA AIRLINES
Travel to Madrid will get even easier in January 2025 when Iberia expands at Washington Dulles with new 6x weekly service to Madrid . Iberia ’ s expanded service will be operated on the new Airbus 321XLR aircraft , for which Iberia is the launch customer . This expanded service will offer convenient nonstop flights to Iberia ’ s global hub at Adolfo Suárez Madrid – Barajas Airport ( MAD ), and with seamless connections across their global network .
UNITED AIRLINES
United Airlines , the largest airline at Washington Dulles , offers more options than ever to fly nonstop to Madrid in 2024 . Flights have been extended until Dec . 2 . United ’ s service from Dulles to Adolfo Suárez Madrid – Barajas Airport is well-timed for National Capital Region residents to complete a full day ’ s work and then travel overnight to Madrid .
For more details , visit flydulles . com / Madrid
AUTUMN 2024 9
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