Menorca is one-fifth the area of Mallorca, with a tenth the population.

It is one of the best-kept secrets in the Western Mediterranean.

This 'little' island is unique and enchanting

The geography appears simple enough: the capital and biggest town, Mahon (Mao in the Menorqui dialect), is at the eastern end of the island, and Ciutadella, the former capital, is at the western end.

There is only one main road, and it runs like a spine down the centre of the island, linking Mahon and Ciutadella, with villages and small towns, on the north and south coasts, linking to it by minor roads and tracks.

The island is divided into two geolocical regions, the main road runs along the divide. The northern side of the island is greener and lusher, with the coast line indented by large bays; the south is a giant's rockery, riddled with caves and dotted with prehistoric marvels, its coast is a succession of secret coves.

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Monte Toro,highest point on island, 1,171ft (357m)

Ciutadella means 'Little City', and until the early 18th Century, it was the capital of Menorca. The British made the change to Mahon, because they occupied the island primarily,because of the harbour there.

Ciutadella's harbour is beautiful, but narrow and shallow inlet,which could not compete.

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Ciutadella Harbour

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The Port of Ciutadella

The two cities are so unalike it's difficult to believe that they are less than 28 miles (45kms) apart. You will be hard pressed to find any Georgian windows in Ciutadella amidst the honey coloured stone of baroque mansions and palaces.

Placa Alfons lll now marks the spot where the road from Mahon reached the old city gates, which have now disapeared. The square is now full of cafes. Stroll along the main street which bisects the old part of the city. It takes different names but starts here as Carrer de Mao until it reaches Sa Placa Nova. Then it becomes Carrer J.M.Quadrado, where on one side is the lovely Ses Voltes, which is completely arcaded in Moorish style. The stone work is all a beautiful honey colour and turns golden in the evening light.

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Fort at entrance to harbour - Ciutedella

Look especially for the carved doorway of Esglesia del Rosari across from the cathedral, down the little side street, Carrer del rosari. The cathedral itself, was began in the 13th century, and is a typical fortress - like building, it has been extensively modified over the centuries. Adjoining it is the bishop's palace.