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The opportunity to take a holiday with the family is one we all look forward to – even more so if the destination is somewhere as fantastic as Menorca, in the Balearic Islands. But, as every parent will know, it’s sometimes not as relaxing as it could be when you’re bending over backwards to ensure the kids are entertained and happy. Youngsters are notoriously hard to keep engaged away from their computer or smartphone screens, but one thing that’s guaranteed to be a hit is getting out into the great outdoors (even if it might take a bit of persuasion at first). No matter where on the island you choose to rent your family villa, there are endless opportunities to escape into nature and get energetic. Here are just a few suggestions. Giddy Up on Horseback Horses are a big part of Menorcan tradition and one of the most popular things to do with kids is a guided horseback excursion. Companies cater for beginners to experienced riders and there are numerous bridle trails (including parts of the famous Cami de Cavalls, which you can also do on foot) to explore. It’s a truly invigorating way to see the countryside. The Best Views from Monte Toro It won’t be too hard to convince kids to take a hike up Monte Toro, outside Es Mercadal, even though it's the highest point on the island because it really isn’t that high, at 350m. It will take around two hours but the views are spectacular once you make it and kids will definitely have a sense of achievement from their efforts. There’s a thirteenth-century church and a statue of Jesus at the top, and there’s also a café in case you need to bribe young legs to keep going! Explore Fort Marlborough This is a place children love for its sense of mystery and history. While it might be a bit nondescript from the outside, once you get in to wander the hidden alleyways and tunnels they’ll feel like they’re on a real-life adventure. You’ll need a car to get there but it’s well worth the short drive from Mahon. Discover a Sand Quarry Just outside Ciutadella is the unique sandstone quarry known as Lithica, Ses Pedreres de s’Hostal. While it’s been abandoned as a working quarry for nearly three decades, what’s left of the complex is endlessly fascinating to children. They can wander round and explore the gardens, orchards and monumental stone labyrinths, or you can do a guided tour. It’s a great way to get them out enjoying the sunshine and also learn a bit of history! Get Energetic on Two Wheels Mountain biking is a great activity for both adults and children and this place couldn’t be more perfect for it. You can hire your own bikes and head off on some really good inland tracks and coastal paths, but for those new to the island it’s a better idea to book on to a guided MTB tour. A tour can cater to all levels of expertise and fitness, so you’ll travel at an appropriate pace to suit everyone. Again, you’ll be able to explore various sections of the coastal Cami de Cavalls and you might be surprised how much ground you’ll cover on two wheels. Book In and Get Out of Your Family Villa! Staying in a well-located family villa on Menorca is the best option if you’re looking for freedom, space and independence. But don’t get too comfortable, because there is so much outside your family villa to enjoy! The above is just the start… Author Plate Brenda Jaaback, Managing Director of Bartle Holidays, is a renowned Menorca expert. From its history to its people and from its wildlife to its cuisine - no secret of the island remains hidden to her. Personally selecting the finest properties for her clients, Brenda is the go-to person for anyone looking for a relaxing family villa for a holiday in Menorca. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.
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