Minorca, an island with a difference

BIOSPHERE RESERVE (8 October 1993-Man and the Biosphere Programme MAB-UNESCO)
Throughout its history, Minorca, the northernmost of the Balearic Islands and the easternmost point of Spain, has successfully maintained and respected everything that has made it the special, atypical place it is. The different cultures that have left their mark on the island, its light, its unique natural environment, its customs and way of life capture the imagination of visitors who choose Minorca as a place for rest and relaxation.

In the north of the island, on a winding coastline that has not yet been affected by tourism and which has high environmental and landscape value, among salt marshes, cliffs and beautiful coves, Fornells looks onto the sea from its bay of calm, crystal-clear water. Fornells brings together the tradition of its fishing-village origin with modern times, making it one of the last remaining places in which the essence of Mediterranean life can still be enjoyed.

Information about Fornells
Fornells is a natural port that was maintained as a fishing village until the 1960s. Together with Ciutadella and Maó, it is the place chosen by those who visit the island in search of a few days' rest. The locals who live in the well-maintained town centre strive to keep up its age-old Mediterranean fishing tradition. The origin of Fornells dates back to the construction of a defence castle in 1625. Later, the 18th century saw the construction of the Caballería Tower, the emblematic symbol of Fornells.

Description of island
Minorca has a surface area of 702 square kilometres (270 square miles) and a coastline that runs along 216 km coastline.  The maximum breadth of the island is between Ciutadella and Maó and stretches across a distance of 470 km (29 mi). Geologically, the island is separated into two symmetric but very different halves: the north, with its wild, uneven coastline, sparse plant life and a good number of small islands and red or dark sandy beaches; and the South, calcareous rock flats, gentle cliffs, ravines sculpted by the water and white sandy coves surrounded by pine trees. Mount Toro stands 357 m (1,190 ft) above sea level and is the highest point on the island.

Reaching Fornells
From Mercadal: along the C723 road to Fornells.
From Maó: take the PM710 road to Fornells, setting off from the end of the port.
From Ciutadella: PM721 road to Mercadal and then take the PM723.