subject: Mediterranean Marvel [print this page] An island so beautiful it draws thousands of visitors from far and wide. Take a cheap flightto Minorca and find out why. Believe you me, you wont a least bit disappointed. In fact, far from facing discontent, youll be pleasantly surprised to see fascinating charms in whatever you see and do here, such is the charisma of Minorca. A western island of the Balearic Archipelago, it is the quiet sister of Ibiza and Majorca offering a balmy and comforting contrast to the disco beat and glitz next door. Minorcas distinction of being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve helped the island escape the great Spanish mega-hotel development frenzy. At this patch of the Mediterranean you can enjoy miles and miles long beaches, virginal waters changing colors from cobalt blue to emerald, crystalline sand brushing your skin and the pure breeze. Those who like to swim in the clear-azure waters can do so in the coves called Cala dAlgaiarens. The islands eco-diversity buck just doesnt stop here. Deep gorges, wetlands, salt marches, forests, and hillsides covered in lush greenery, Minorca is certainly a nature lovers haven. A green island from length to breadth, its pinewoods and fields filled with more than 20,000 grazing cattle creates quite an idyllic scene. Always postcard-ready, your cameras will go clicking here, there and everywhere in Minorca. Enjoy cycling on the tracks cross the meadows and scrublands, with spectacular views of the island and seafront as a major sidekick. Rocky and rough describes the islands north coast the best, a great place for trailing. On the other hand, the south coast is replete with isolated coves and cliffs. Families looking for a good time in Minorca have it plentiful courtesy various family-friendly resorts. Bleached by the sun itself, its towns, Mahn and Ciutadella, are the two oldest and largest ones on the island. Excellent places to enjoy some history, you can witness how elements of British colonial heritage, Moorish roots and modern Spanish identity have and continue to exist together rather harmoniously. An enormous natural harbor and a busy port, Mao impresses the tourist with its grand architectural features. Coming to Ciutadella, this second ancient capital is located on the opposite end of the island. A graceful town like no other, youll walk to many winding streets here, see old buildings, and visit beautiful cathedrals. Agri-tourism is a major draw in Minorca where you get to experience things such as sleeping in rural establishments like Ca Na Xini, see how a dairy farm works, and live in an eight-room temple built inside the shell of a century-old manor home. Apart from enjoying the beaches, there are many attractions dotted around Minorca. Soak in the thrill of cultural events in Es Freginal Park, drink some bubbling gin or various other liquors at the historic Xoriguer Distillery. You can also spend a day doing boat trips, fishing, shopping and just enjoying the ancient Arab design at Minorcas waterfront. With so many exciting things to do and see, how in the world can you miss a cheap tickets
