Menorca is an ideal island for a week of exploration on foot: just 30 miles long and 12 miles at its widest point. Its sundrenched

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1 Menorca Mahon 2017

2 Welcome to Menorca Menorca is an ideal island for a week of exploration on foot: just 30 miles long and 12 miles at its widest point. Its sundrenched coastline is the base for many of our walks. The low-lying terrain makes for relaxing walking with its highest point, Monte Toro, rising to a height of 1,175ft in the centre of the island. Menorca s long and fascinating history dates back to prehistoric times and one of the highlights is to visit the extraordinary concentration of prehistoric monuments, standing stones and burial chambers. There are several hundred such sites on Menorca and we will visit some of the best examples. More recently the island was ruled by the Moors, whose influence is particularly apparent in Ciutadella, Menorca s second largest city, which we visit on our sightseeing day. During the 18th century the strategic importance of Mahon s huge natural harbour was recognised by the British Navy and Menorca became part of Britain s expanding empire. A succession of fortifications around the harbour remain as a legacy of this period. In the summer months, Menorca is a popular holiday destination, but in spring and autumn it is much quieter and has a sleepy ambience. Most of the local population live in the five main towns: Mahon, the island s capital, Alaior, Es Mercadel, Ferreries and Ciutadella, which are all linked by one main road running from one end of the island to the other. Away from this central highway are peaceful traditional villages and a few modern tourist resorts. During your holiday we ll explore much of the island on coastal and countryside walks with beautiful scenery, rich displays of wild flowers, historical sites and a relaxed way of life. 2 Reservations - local rate (standard rate )

3 Accommodation Hotel Port Mahon Av. Port de Maó Mahon Menorca Tel: The 4-star Hotel Port Mahon occupies an excellent position overlooking Mahon Harbour. Located in a peaceful residential area above the marina, it is a pleasant 15 minute walk from the historic city centre. The hotel is owned by Seth Hotels, a small chain who manage hotels on Menorca and mainland Spain. Most of the staff speak good English and are very keen to ensure you have an enjoyable stay. Bedrooms: There are 73 bedrooms in the main hotel building. All the room types have en-suite facilities together with a hairdryer, telephone, safe deposit box, mini-bar, central heating/air conditioning, satellite TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Facilities: The main area for meeting fellow guests is the Piano Bar on the ground floor, which has lots of comfortable seating. Outside in the garden is a good sized outdoor swimming pool which is open most of the year, depending on the weather. The main reception desk is manned throughout the day and sells postcards and stamps You can book car hire through reception should you wish to explore further afield on your free day. Internet access and free Wi-Fi are also available in the reception area. The hotel has one main dining room on the lower floor which opens out onto the large terrace at the front of the hotel. Meals: All our holidays include breakfast and evening meal. If you have any special dietary requirements including vegetarians, it is always better if we know before you travel. On arrival in resort please confirm your requirements with reception. Breakfast: Served from 7.30am until 10.30am (Mon-Fri) and 8am until 11am (Sat-Sun) this is an extensive self-service buffet with a good choice of hot and cold options. Evening meal: Hotel Port Mahon offers a 3-course evening meal and it is served buffet style. The first course comprises soups or salads, a variety of hot dishes is offered for the main course, and there is a large dessert buffet. Lunch: Packed lunches cannot be purchased from the hotel but it is possible to buy ingredients from local shops or on some days to eat at one of the local cafés; your leaders will advise you of the options. To book online visit 3

4 Holiday itinerary A unique feature of our Guided Walking holidays is the daily choice of walks. Each evening your leaders will give a short talk about the options for the next day and answer any questions that you may have. In Menorca you ll have a choice of two guided walks on each walking day. The cost of the transport to and from your walks each day is included in the cost of your holiday. Easier Walks: 5 to 6 miles (8-9.5km) generally gently graded but sometimes on rocky paths. Up to 600 ft (180m) of ascent in a day. Harder Walks: 7 to 10 miles (11-16km) sometimes on rocky paths. Up to 800ft (240m) of ascent in a day. Please note that the itinerary outlined below is provisional and could be subject to change. For the most up to date information, please check our website. A finalised itinerary will be available at the resort and your leaders will talk every evening about the next day s walks. Day 1: Arrival day Depending on your arrival time you may have the opportunity to see a little of Mahon before your evening meal. On the first evening our leaders will explain more about our walks and there will be plenty of time to meet with your fellow guests. Day 2: Coastal defences to Punta Prima Menorca has an impressive collection of Talayotic sites. Both groups have a short visit to Trepuco and its emblematic taula. Both walks then follow the coast which allows good views of Mahon harbour and its impressive fortifications. Easier Walk: After a short bus journey to the delightful inlet of Cala de Sant Esteve, there is an opportunity to make a short visit to Fort Marlborough. Built by the British in the 18th century it is largely hidden from view. Leaving the fort we head south passing two further defensive towers. Our route follows the Cami de Cavalls coastal footpath passing modern day resorts to reach the resort of Punta Prima with its sandy beach and lighthouse. 6 miles (9.5km) with 500ft (170m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Leaving Trepuco it s only a short journey until we arrive on the outskirts of Es Castell. This has a very military feel to it as the centre is a former parade ground. A short walk leads to Calas Fonts with its attractive harbour before we join the Cami de Cavalls en route to Cala de St Esteve. From this point we follow the easier group route to arrive in Punta Prima. 8 miles (13km) with 670ft (200m) of ascent. Day 3: Along the east coast to Es Grau Today we ll travel to the north of Mahon to enjoy walks along the east coast. We ll pass delightful beaches taking in views over the coastal village of Es Grau and beyond to the island of Colom. Our journey takes us to a protected nature reserve which overlooks the S Albufera Lake before reaching the village of Es Grau. Easier Walk: We start the day by visiting the Cap Favartix lighthouse, before travelling onto Es Grau for the start of our circular walk. Our walk takes us north along the beach to meet the Cami de Cavalls which we follow passing secluded beaches, only accessible on foot, to reach the boathouse at Cala de Sa Toretta. Here we can enjoy lunch before retracing our steps to Es Grau beach. At this point the route visits S Alburfera Lake, an important site for migrating birds; we can spend time here or relax in the local bars. 5 miles (8km) with 500ft (150m) of ascent. Harder Walk: The walk follows the Cami de Cavalls leading to Cap Favartix lighthouse. In just a couple of kilometres the landscape changes dramatically from lush countryside to a lunar landscape. After a visit to the lighthouse our route turns south to follow the 4 Reservations - local rate (standard rate )

5 east coast to Es Grau. We pass secluded beaches and Bassa de Morella Nature Reserve before reaching Cala de Sa Toretta. Our route then joins the easier route to Es Grau and its inviting bars, beach and nature reserve. 8 miles (13km) with 800ft (240m) of ascent. Day 4: Ciutadella - sightseeing day Today we ll visit Ciutadella, the second largest town on the island situated at the western end. Originally settled by the Moors, this was formerly the island s capital until this was switched to Mahon by the British. The historic centre is clustered around its narrow harbour and contains a maze of narrow alleys and Moorish buildings. We continue to Monte Toro, the highest peak of the island, to enjoy the view before visiting Fornells, a picturesque fishing village on the north coast. Allow approximately 10 for sightseeing costs. Day 5: Free day Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest. Some options for your free day may include: Mahon A 10 minute walk from the hotel will take you to the centre of Mahon. With a population of around 25,000, this is the island s capital and it has a good selection of shops, cafés and facilities. The city s great harbour has long been recognised for its strategic importance and over the years has been a base for the British and Spanish fleets. Boat trips around the harbour depart from the main quayside and are a great way to see its full scale. The city s main historic sites, including the cathedral, can be found on the hill just above the harbour and display a variety of different influences from the island s various rulers. La Mola Fortress The immense fortress of La Mola was built between 1848 and 1875 to guard the entrance to Mahon Harbour. This is the most impressive historic site on Menorca and a visit lasts about 2½ hours. It is best reached by taxi or hire car. Please check with hotel reception for opening hours and possible guided tours. Local information website: For information on Menorca please visit Day 6: Limestone valley and sandy beach Today we head to the south for walks which combine both inland and coastal scenery. A limestone valley descends from Es Mighorn Gran to the sea and is well known for an enormous cave, Cova des Coloms (cave of the pigeons), said to be large enough to accommodate a cathedral. Both groups visit this impressive site. Easier Walk: We follow the track from the village to Barranco de Binigaus, where the path becomes more rugged and descends via the Cova des Coloms to reach the beach at Binigaus. There is the option to visit a small bar for lunch in St Thomas. After lunch we continue to return to Es Mighorn Gran. 6 miles (8km) with 600ft (180m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Our walk starts in Son Bou, a modern resort with the remains of a 5th century basilica. The walk follows the new routing of the Cami de Cavalls which heads to the marshland of Sant Jaume. The route turns south to the sea and then west of St Thomas. It may be tempting to stay for lunch or a swim before continuing to Binigaus and its barranco. The rugged path ascends close to Cova des Coloms, our second cathedral of the day before returning to Es Mighorn Gran. 9 miles (14km) with 900ft (270m) of ascent. Day 7: Cliffs and coves of the southwest coast Our final walks head to southwest Menorca for some particularly attractive coastal walks. Both walks visit sandy beaches before finishing in the resort of Cala Galdana, a popular resort with sandy beaches, pine clad headlands and plenty of bars to relax in the after a week s walking. Easier Walk: The day begins with a choice Lithica stone quarry for an hour s visit or stay on the coach to Son Xoriguer where the harder walk starts. Best described as a butterfly walk, the easier route visits two coves local to Cala Galdana. The first, to the east of Cala Galdana is Cala Mitijana. After returning to Cala Galdana you may decide to explore its facilities whilst the group visits the second cove, Cala Macarella to the west. We then return to To book online visit 5

6 Cala Galdana for our transport to Mahon. 6 miles (9.5km) with 400ft (120m) of ascent. Harder Walk: Our journey to Son Xoriguer takes about an hour. Our walk follows the Cami de Cavalls coastal path with sections of limestone paths, woodland, low cliff tops, beaches and coves. We will pass this generally natural coast of remote and deserted caves and several tempting beaches. The walk finishes in Cala Galdana with its many facilities. 9 miles (14.5km) with 700ft (210m) of ascent. Day 8: Departure day In the evenings The friendly atmosphere of our Guided Walking holidays continues into the evening. We ll enjoy a leisurely meal and then you may also like to join your leader for an evening stroll, listen to local musicians, relax with a book in a quiet lounge or enjoy a drink at the bar with your fellow walkers talking about your day. 6 Reservations - local rate (standard rate )

7 Transfer information If you have booked your holiday with flight you will arrive at Menorca Airport. From the UK we offer flights from London Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham which may arrive at different times. Please note that meals are not usually provided on European flights, although some airlines may offer a small snack. Where possible you will be met as you enter the arrivals hall by an HF Holidays leader. Your leader may be on the same flight as you or may arrive on another flight. Occasionally we will ask our transfer coach company to meet you. The driver will be in the arrivals hall holding an HF Holidays sign. The onward journey to Mahon by coach takes approximately 15 minutes. For independent travellers: For guests who have booked their holiday without flight HF Holidays can help you to reach the hotel in the following ways: HF Holidays transfer coach from Menorca airport. These are timed to meet the HF Holidays flights (provisional flight times can be found on or by calling (0) ). Cost per single journey is 10. Please note that HF Holidays is not responsible for your onward travel if you fail to meet the transfer coach under any circumstance. Our Airport Taxi service operates at this resort, offering quick and easy transfers for guests booking their own flights. All prices are per taxi for single journeys, allowing you to mix and match different transfer options From Menorca Airport by taxi transfer 25 per taxi single journey Transfers and taxis must be pre-booked. If you have not already booked your transfer or taxi please call +44 (0) Airport parking and accommodation If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call and quote HX031 or book online at hfholidays Sustainable Tourism Tax Authorities in the Balearic Islands of Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca have introduced a Sustainable Tourism Tax on tourists visiting the islands which the Government will use to help preserve their natural beauty and cultural heritage. As a result, a charge of 1.65 per person per night, on all overnight stays in 4-star tourist accommodation has now come into force and will be applicable to your stay. It will need to be paid directly at your hotel and we would advise you to be prepared to pay upon arrival, although the hotel may allow you to add this to the final room bill. To book online visit 7

8 Walking information Your walking leaders: HF Holidays leaders are a pivotal feature of our Guided Walking holidays. During the day they will guide you on the walks in a caring and considerate way, showing you places of interest en route. All our leaders have been selected on an intensive residential course so you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing that you are in safe hands. Our leaders welcome your comments on the holiday survey; constructive suggestions for things that they might do differently are very helpful. We take pride in the quality of our holidays and work closely with all our providers to ensure our holidays meet your expectations. If for any reason you are not satisfied with any element of your holiday, our leaders are the best people to help. Local interest guides: In some of our resorts we may employ the services of a local interest guide who will accompany you on a walk to enrich and enhance your enjoyment of the area by giving you an insight into its history and culture. Tips for local interest guides have not been included in the price of your holiday. This is at your own discretion and we invite you to do this directly with the local guide. Maps: Your leaders will of course carry all the maps and detailed walk instructions needed for the walks. The map available for this area is 1:40,000 Tour & Trail map published by Discovery Walking Guides. Maps can be obtained by mail order from The Map Shop, Tel: or visit Children: We welcome unaccompanied children of 14 or over on our walks on the basis that they can take full responsibility for themselves. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. 8 Reservations - local rate (standard rate )

9 Walking safely We are committed to running our Guided Walking holidays in a safe manner and your co-operation with this is much appreciated. No outdoor activity can be 100% risk free; however, if you take sensible precautions and adhere to your leaders instructions, your holiday will be both safe and enjoyable. On the first evening of your holiday (dependent on arrival time), the leaders will give a short talk about safety on the walks we would ask everyone to attend. Walking as a group: Our leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole, and will show more caution over potential risks (such as bad or exceptionally hot weather) than an individual or couple might make on a private outing. Walks may be modified or cancelled following the leaders assessment of the day-to-day situation. Your leaders will refuse to accept any guest whose clothing, equipment, behaviour or walking ability is considered unsuitable, and where it could affect the safety and enjoyment of other guests on the proposed walk. It is your responsibility to follow the leader s guidelines, for the benefit and safety of the group as a whole. If you leave the group, then your leader will no longer have responsibility for you. For safety reasons, we stipulate a minimum party size of two guests in addition to the leader. First aid: In line with current practice, each leader carries a group first aid kit but is not able to supply any medication, including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines and antiseptic cream. Hydration: In warm weather it is very important to keep hydrated. You will need to carry a minimum of two litres of water with you on walks, more during hot weather or on more demanding walks. One good way of hydrating is to use a two litre hydration pack which allows drinking without constant stopping. This can then be filled up from additional water sources as required. Your leader will inform you of the possibilities for replenishing your water during the walks. Your health: It is essential that you describe on your guest registration form any health condition or disability you may have. The leaders will treat this confidentially and may be able to take it into account on the walks; for example, by not delaying lunch if they know they have someone with diabetes in their party. EU citizens should ensure they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) prior to their holiday. There can be problems with medical authorities and insurance companies if you cannot produce this when you require treatment details are available at dh.gov. uk/travellers EHIC cards have an expiry date please check yours is valid before you travel. Insurance: Insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and advise us of the insurance company and policy number. We have negotiated special holiday insurance and full details of this cover can be found in our brochure or at hfholidays.co.uk. There is no extra charge for pre-existing illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us please call us on or holidayservices@hfholidays.co.uk. Even with an EHIC card, medicines and out-patient treatment normally have to be paid for at the time and the costs reclaimed afterwards details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Therefore insurance is extremely important, as is access to emergency money, preferably a credit card. In Montenegro, there are reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK that allow free emergency treatment. In non urgent cases payment (normally in cash) To book online visit 9

10 may be required. Further details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Turkey has no reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, and doctors generally expect payment in cash. Find out in advance if your insurance plan will make payments directly to providers or reimburse you later for overseas health expenditures. Money: Access to emergency money, preferably via a credit card, is very important as you never know when an emergency may arise. What to wear and bring To enjoy your walking comfortably and safely, it is essential that your footwear, clothing and equipment are suitable for the conditions likely to be encountered. Changeable weather is possible throughout the year, so our advice is to come prepared for all eventualities. Please note that some of our Atlantic island and Mediterranean destinations are also in mountainous areas and at high altitudes (up to 4,000ft). The temperatures can be as low as 0 C. You will need: comfortable outdoor clothing waterproof jacket and overtrousers ankle supporting footwear with non-slip soles small rucksack water bottle (at least 2 litres, more for hot climates) and a thermos flask if you wish sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses In addition to the above, the following are recommended to all walkers, and are essential for mountainous and hilly areas: walking boots spare pullover or fleece hat and gloves spare high-energy food e.g. chocolate bar or Kendal mint cake torch You may also wish to consider bringing: walking pole(s) many guests find these useful, particularly for descents camera personal first aid kit Footwear: We recommend wearing walking boots on all our walks, as these provide the best ankle support and grip. Modern approach shoes offer appropriate levels of grip and may be worn on some low level walks, but users should be aware that they offer less ankle support. Lightweight trainers, denim jeans and waterproof capes are not recommended for any walks. Holiday tips Language: Spanish Currency: Euro Changing money: There are several ATM machines in Mahon where you can obtain money. Electricity: 220 Volt AC with round two pin plugs; you will need an adaptor for any appliances brought from the UK. Tap water: Is considered safe to drink, but if you prefer, bottled mineral water can be purchased from the hotel or local supermarkets. Telephone code: If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0, you must drop the starting digit when dialling the number. To dial a UK number 0044 To dial a Spanish number Reservations - local rate (standard rate )

11 Where next? If you enjoyed your holiday in Menora, we recommend our holiday in Madeira. Guided Trail holidays Discover a great sense of achievement on a Guided Trail holiday. We have a great collection of trails on famous routes and outstanding locations across Britain and Europe. Two weeks or more Make the most of your break and enjoy a longer holiday either two weeks of walking at one resort or by combining complementary holidays, such as Lake Bled in Slovenia and beautiful Buzet on the Istrian peninsula in Croatia. We arrange the transfers between the resorts so that you don t have to. See our brochure or website for more information. Self-guided Walking For those who prefer to explore independently, on our Self-guided Walking holidays, in selected European destinations, you can discover unspoiled scenery, historic sites and the local culture at your own pace by following our carefully planned walking routes. Worldwide From Alaska to Australia our Worldwide Journeys invite you to explore world famous destinations, and some lesser known gems, on six continents including Europe. Cycling With a wealth of exciting European destinations, we have a range of guided and self-guided holidays to suit all abilities. We also offer guided cycling tours based at some of our UK Country Houses. If you prefer to plan your own itinerary, our UK Country House Escapes also cater for cyclists. Leisure Activities We offer a range of Leisure Activities holidays at some of our European destinations, including Discovery or Garden Tours, Photography, Painting, or Yoga. Save on outdoor clothing From time to time our outdoor clothing partners have special offers for our guests. Visit to see the current offers. To book online visit 11

12 About HF Holidays We have been organising outdoor holidays for over 100 years and we are the only holiday provider that is a co-operative. We are owned by our 36,000+ members and have no big corporate shareholders. Responsible tourism We have always been committed to acting as a responsible tour operator, and community is at the heart of everything we do. HF Holidays supports a range of projects helping to protect our environment and improving access to the countryside for future generations to enjoy. We support the work of the Ramblers, air ambulances, and mountain rescue teams. To find out more about our policy and commitment to the environment visit hfholidays.co.uk/responsibletourism On returning from your trip, we would like to hear your thoughts on any best practices that you observed and considered positive. Please sarahdavis@hfholidays.co.uk Pathways Fund Last year guests donated 30,000 to our Pathways Fund. Find more information on our website hfholidays.co.uk/pathways Holiday feedback We value feedback from our guests. All holiday surveys are read by the team that plans our holidays and it plays a valuable part in helping us plan future holidays. If there is any information we have not provided that you feel would be useful for future guests, please do let us know. If we have your address you will be sent a survey after your holiday; alternatively you can go to hfholidays.co.uk/surveys. Membership of HF Holidays If you have enjoyed your holiday and would like to help support our objectives, call for details of membership (standard rate +44 (0) ). For the latest news and special offers register for our e-newsletter at hfholidays.co.uk/register Social media Contact details HF Holidays contact details HF Holidays Ltd Catalyst House 720 Centennial Court Centennial Park Elstree Borehamwood, WD6 3SY Call For any questions before your holiday, we re here to help, so please contact us on: (local rate) (0) (from outside the UK) Monday-Friday 9am-7pm info@hfholidays.co.uk Emergency contact details In all instances during your holiday,your first point of contact should be our HF Holidays leaders. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays emergency contact details are as above or: Friday 7pm to Monday 9am +44 (0)