Category: Spain

March 3, 2025 Spain, Uncategorized Post a Comment

Bournemouth to Lanzarote with Jet2 Holidays…

Jet2 have a new base operating from 2025 at Bournemouth Airport. This is great news if you live in the South West of England. Bournemouth Airport is only a 20 minute drive from my home in the New Forest so when I was invited to go on a trip to Lanzarote with Jet2 on one of their first flights from Bournemouth Airport I couldn’t say no. Holidays to Lanzarote with Jet2holidays from Bournemouth can be booked all year round.

My trip was complimentary in exchange for this review, all words and opinions as always are my own.

Flights with Jet2 from Bournemouth Airport

Bournemouth is a great airport to fly from, its compact size makes it easy to navigate. We found the whole process to be so smooth and quick from check in, through security and boarding the aircraft. The Jet2 ground staff and cabin crew were all so helpful and friendly. Security were great too, especially with our son Jack who is a Type 1 Diabetic. They really put him at ease while they did their necessary checks. Always really reassuring when you’re travelling with a medical condition. Jet2 were great with this as well. They added a note of Jack’s medical condition to our booking and when I had a problem online with selecting our seats, they were so quick and helpful to resolve the issue.

One thing I love about Jet2 is the generous baggage allowance which is included with their holidays. 10kg hand luggage and 22kg hold luggage allowance per person is an added bonus. Plus transfers to and from your booked accommodation make the whole process a relaxing one.

Flights to Lanzarote with Jet2 from Bournemouth Airport are scheduled all year round, departing on Monday, Thursday and Friday. Lanzarote is found in the Canary Islands and around a 4-hour flight from Bournemouth Airport. It lies 80 miles off the north coast of Africa with beautiful beaches and volcanic landscapes. Plus, it is warm all year round, great for escaping the winter weather in the UK.

Where we stayed in Lanzarote:

We spent 4 nights at the all-inclusive Sol Lanzarote during February half term. I can report that the sun was shining and the weather was glorious. We were able to spend time on the beach and in the pool and returned home looking sun kissed! February is a fantastic time to leave behind the rain in the UK for Lanzarote. The climate makes it a perfect holiday destination all year round.

The hotel:

Set on the sparkling shores of Matagorda Beach, Sol Lanzarote is in a perfect location, just 10 minutes from Arrecife airport. It was around 20 minutes for us as we were on a coach transfer with other hotel drop offs. The bustling town of Puerto del Carmen is 10 minute’s drive away and it is ideally placed for all of Lanzarote’s main attractions.

Matagorda itself is a great area. It has a beautiful beach promenade lined with a few bars, shops and restaurants. We loved the fact that you can walk and cycle for miles along it. The area is clean and clearly well looked after, also it’s not overrun with bars or high-rise buildings.

Sol Lanzarote has three pools, a play park, a games room, kids club and a gym on site too. The hotel has one main buffet restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and a pool bar open from 10.30am for drinks, snacks and light lunches. It was nice to have the pool bar as an extra option for lunch as we found the 1.30pm opening time in the main restaurant to be a bit too late for the kids. It also has the most beautiful, shaded terrace area overlooking the beach. The self-service drinks bar open during the day is in a handy spot by the pool. The bar near reception opened from 6pm. This is where the nightly entertainment took place with a children’s disco starting at 8.30pm. A tad on the late side for our kids but we actually ended up getting into the swing of later evenings so we could make the most of everything on offer.

Sol Lanzarote do a great job at sustainability. Towels in rooms are only changed if they are placed on the floor and no single use plastic tableware. On arrival you get given one token per person for cups, return the cup for a fresh one or in exchange for your token. Such a great idea to reduce waste.

The only thing we didn’t enjoy was guests placing towels on sunbeds to reserve them. We found on our first morning we weren’t easily able to get sunbeds as they had all been ‘reserved’ at the crack of dawn by others! The hotel staff were really obliging when I mentioned this and appeared with extra ones for us. Don’t be shy to speak with staff if you find this to be a problem on your stay. Although we did subsequently follow suite and put our own towels by the pool early on other mornings as we didn’t want to miss out!

For any extras you might need to buy the hotel has a souvenir shop in the reception area and a mini market just out of the main entrance to the right.

The room:

On check-in we were upgraded to a junior suite which was a lovely surprise. The large, bright and airy room was split into two and had two balconies overlooking Lanzarote’s beautiful volcanic interior. The sunset views were so pretty. Watching parrots glide between palm trees on a balmy afternoon with a G&T in hand was just such a wonderful February treat! The kids shared a roomy sofa bed in the lounge which also included a mini kitchen area with a microwave and a fridge stocked with soft drinks and beer. Matt and I had a king size bed big enough for four, lucky for us as we’d often wake to find the little ones snuggled up with us!

I loved all the little touches we found on arrival, like the welcome note, bottle of bubbles and snacks along with flip flops, reusable tote bag and wooden games for the kids.

The food:

The main restaurant caters for all tastes and had different themes every night. Breakfast was great with fresh fruit, cereals, pastries, cooked breakfasts and omelettes. I also spied some guests with avocado on their plates, so this is possibly an extra to ask for. We found sitting outside on the decking near the pool to have a slightly better ambience than inside when it was busy. So, my top tip would be to take your time to explore and pick the seating area that works best for you.

Valentine’s evening was our favourite with welcome drinks at the door for adults and children, a huge selection of fresh sushi and desserts to die for! As well as nightly themes there was always standard food choices of pasta, fish, loads of salad dishes and always a variety of meat dishes. The pool bar was our favourite shady spot for a drink overlooking the ocean. You could also have lunch there with choices of toasted sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, fries, calamari and salads. Along with snacks, fruit and ice cream to help yourself to all day. The lunchtime barbecue set up there on a Friday was nice too.

With 4 days to enjoy, we chose to make the most of everything the hotel had to offer and took our holiday at a slower pace than we usually would. We spent time by the pool, on the beach and exploring the local area. There were some great activities at the pool during the day for kids. Ours loved their daily ‘water mat’ fix. The entertainment team rolled out a huge floating mat in the children’s pool for running along into the water. Aside from sunbathing, there were poolside exercise classes and spin classes too for anyone wanting to be a bit more active.

Things to do in Lanzarote:

Matagorda Beach area:

We had a lot of grand plans for this trip but actually just followed the kids lead and had a wonderful time. They spotted a family bike for four. So we did some research and hired one from Fliston’s bike shop. It was a short walk along the beach promenade from our hotel. At 15 Euros per hour or 25 Euros for two hours we thought it was a bargain! I really recommend doing this, it was great fun and a fantastic way to explore the area. We pedalled along the beach to Arrecife Airport to watch the planes flying in over our heads, which was so exciting! In the opposite direction towards Puerto Del Carmen, we stopped off to look at the shops and for beer and ice cream on the promenade. A great few hours of family fun!

Around Lanzarote:

If you have more time on the island then hire a car. There are so many adventures to be had including Timanfaya National Park, full of volcanoes and geothermal activity. There’s also the chance for camel rides! Stop by El Golfo, an incredible green lagoon. La Geria wine region is popular for wine tasting, long lazy lunches and vineyard tours. This one is probably better saved for a trip without kids! For something completely different check out the salt pans at El Janubio and Cueva de Los Verdes, caves formed from lava tubes. On the water there are so many boat trips to choose from and exciting submarine safaris for underwater exploration. The island has two waterparks so there are plenty of adventures to be had! Take a day trip on a ferry across to Fuerteventura, one of the neighbouring Canary Islands. Family holidays don’t get much better than this!

Also not forgetting simply just some beach time. Even in February it was warm enough to swim in the sea and build sandcastles. The pools at the hotel were a little on the cool side but made for a very refreshing dip to cool down from the heat of the sun!

 

We’ve not done a lot of All Inclusive holidays in the past, usually opting for self-catering options. We found on this family trip it was so relaxing knowing everything was included. From the flights to the transfers and the food, drink and entertainment at the hotel. Being able to help yourself to food and drink whenever we fancied and not having to worry about budgeting for anything was a real novelty.

Lanzarote, we will be back!

February 8, 2020 Spain 1 Comment

Fuerteventura: A winter sun holiday destination…

If you are looking to get away from the cold weather, Fuerteventura is a great winter sun holiday destination. Fly there in just under four hours from London. Near the coast of North Africa this Spanish island is the second largest of the Canary Islands.

During the winter months temperatures remain in the high teens and low 20s; making it much warmer than most places in Europe. Day temperatures should feel warm enough to sunbathe, although the sea may feel a little refreshing. I recommend packing a light jacket or warmer top for the evenings as it can get a bit chilly once the sun goes in. There are often less tourists than the summer months so the beaches and beauty spots are quieter too. If you like to escape the crowds it’s a good time of year to go.

I hadn’t realised how diverse Fuerteventura’s landscape is, not only are there beautiful beaches, but mountains, volcanoes and the incredible ever shifting sand dunes of Corralejo’s Natural Park. It is easy to see why it was named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2009.

Here are a few ideas on what to do on your winter sun holiday…

 

Spend time on the beach:

For Europeans this is a novelty in itself as temperatures dip across most of Europe during the winter and daylight hours decrease. The beaches are stunning with crystal clear waters and golden sand; it’s hard not to be impressed. As long as the sun hasn’t dipped behind a cloud the temperatures are perfect for sunbathing. Fuerteventura is known for being windy, for this reason you’ll spot ‘Corralitos’ on many of the beaches on the island. These semi-circular stonewalls were created to keep the wind off when sunbathing and also give a bit of privacy. Fuerteventura’s beaches are popular with naturists; so don’t be surprised to see a naked body or two! Here’s the rundown on my favourite beach spots…

 

La Concha Beach, El Cotillo:

Much of the west coast is pretty rough and not suitable for swimming but La Concha Beach in the quiet town of El Cotillo is a great spot. Protected by reef and rocks this horseshoe shaped bay is perfect for a dip in the ocean and a popular spot with families. Found north of the town towards the lighthouse it has parking, toilets, showers and a bar/cafe right on the sand.

 

Playa Hoplaco, Corralejo:

I love this little beach, in the centre of Corralejo it has turquoise waters, white sand and is great for rock pooling when the tide is out. Views of Los Lobos and Lanzarote make a picture perfect backdrop and the promenade lined with cafes and restaurants is right next-door.

 

Playa Alzada, Corralejo:

Out by the dunes this is my absolute favourite beach. Heading south out of Corralejo take the road to the sand dunes past Grand Playas beaches and the Rui hotels. There are a few beaches on this stretch, Alzada is pretty much one of the last crescent shaped bays. There’s parking on the side of the road and lifeguards on patrol. The sand dunes behind make an incredible backdrop. The beach is just below the road, although I really didn’t find traffic noise a problem, the gentle waves and soapy blue water make this a dreamy spot.

 

Glass Beach, Corralejo:

Also known as El Burro Beach and located next door to Playa Alzada, it’s a popular location. There’s a small headland to the left with the Corralito stone circles, they make a great little shelter on windier days. Lifeguards are on duty here.

There are no facilities at Glass or Alzada Beach so bring your own picnic and supplies. If you’ve got children they will love exploring the rock pools when the tide is low.

 

 

Hire a car:

The best way to explore the island is to hire a car, especially if there is a grey day. We hired a car with Drive Emotion. To really admire Fuerteventura’s diverse landscape drive south from Corralejo to Betancuria, the old capital. This scenic route will take you past Volcanoes in La Oliva and up into the mountains where jaw dropping panoramic views of the island await. Stop at the view points to take in the sweeping terrain below and follow the winding mountain road down into a lush green valley. There are a few quaint towns to drive through; Betancuria is definitely worth a stop off. A beautiful church and the ruins of an old convent give a good insight into Fuerteventura’s past and are completely different to the tourist spots along the coast.

 

Explore the sand dunes at Corralejo Natural Park:

The sand dunes at Corralejo Natural Park are incredible. Ever changing due to the winds and a dramatic volcanic backdrop give a lunar feel. In front of the vast dunes is the turquoise ocean, making this protected area one like no other. Park up alongside the coastal road and cross over to explore the vast dunes. It’s a fantastic way to spend a few hours, a unique spot that you just have to see for yourself.

If you like hiking the volcanic Montana Roja is a popular trek in the dunes. It stands at 314 meters high and is around a 5 hour hike. This is a walk for the more experienced and it’s worth checking routes before you go.

 

 

Enjoy dinner and drinks with sea views:

There are plenty of lovely locations to enjoy drinks or food by the ocean in Fuerteventura, my favourites are:

Sunset Lounge: Head here for laid back beach vibes and sand between your toes. Right on the beach this is a cool bar to watch surfers and windsurfers from. Serving up cocktails, mocktails and whatever else takes your fancy. The Sunset Lounge is famous for its Sunday night beach parties. A barbecue and DJ sets keep the party going into the night.

Savannah Beach: Step right off the beach into this cool venue for food with ocean views, . A glass front keeps the wind off, making it a nice suntrap. Food is reasonably priced and it’s nice to sit and watch surfers go by to nearby beach breaks.

Waikiki: This is a bit of an institution in Corralejo, right on the beach and in the centre of town. The Hawaiian vibes fit in perfectly with the dreamy sea views. If it’s too windy sit indoors, if not secure a table on the sand. There’s a playhouse for kids and the cocktails and mocktails are a tasty and refreshing treat.

La Marina: On the beach promenade in Corralejo town centre. My favourite spot for food and views, the best steak and kebab skewers I have ever had, good wine, cocktails and gorgeous ocean views.

 

 

Go on a day trip:

Lanzarote and the small island of Los Lobos can both be seen from Corralejo. Lanzarote can be reached by boat in around 25 minutes. Los Lobos can be incorporated into a boat trip or catch a ferry across from the harbour in Corralejo in around 15 minutes. Part of the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park exploring is limited to marked paths and there is only one restaurant on the deserted island. This makes it the perfect place to visit to escape the buzz of Corralejo. Stroll to the lighthouse, watch for endangered birds and relax on the beach at Playa de la Concha.

Dune buggy trips are popular adventures with tons of companies providing daily excursions. Buzz around off road exploring volcanic areas and the sand dunes in a unique mode of transport. If I hadn’t been pregnant at the time of my trip I would definitely have done this as it looks like so much fun!

Surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing are all popular sports. If you want to learn to surf there are plenty of surf schools in and around Corralejo and ideal beginner waves. Rocky Point is a good beginner spot with easy right hand waves, wetsuits boots are recommended to clamber over the rocky reef.

 

Fuerteventura: A winter sun holiday destination

As a winter sun destination, Fuerteventura has so much to offer. The winter months excluding December are often a quieter time of year to visit with fewer tourists. It’s warm enough to sunbathe on the beach and there’s plenty of exploring to be done if the sun isn’t shining. Hire a car and explore the islands diverse landscapes. Head to the mountains for jaw dropping views and stroll around the quaint town of Betancuria. Walk in the sand dunes, have a cocktail at a beach bar and get that much need vitamin d from the winter sun! To help plan your trip Marco Polo have a Fuerteventura guide with a useful pull out map.

For another winter sun destination check out my blog post on Mallorca: Finding Winter Sunshine in Mallorca. Although it may not reach the same temperatures as Fuerteventura it’s a nice option for a winter break.

 

This is a sponsored post with Marco Polo Guides. As always all views and opinions are my own.

December 19, 2019 Spain 2 Comments

Exploring Menorca from the water…

*This post is part of a paid campaign to promote the Balearic and Canary Islands, as part of their #SpanishIslands Campaign. Although all views are my own and I have not been instructed what to include.

 

Exploring Menorca from the water is a fantastic way to see this Spanish gem from a different viewpoint. UNESCO named Menorca a Biosphere Reserve in 1993 and with 160 km of pristine coastline to explore it’s easy to see why. There are more than 70 beaches on the island, white sand and crystal clear waters in the south and beautiful deep golden sandy beaches to the north. Not only that but there are many caves, gullies and secret beaches only accessible by the water, so jump in to gain a unique perspective of this popular holiday destination. From kayaking to snorkelling or just a gentle swim in the Mediterranean Ocean there are plenty of watersports in Menorca to be discovered.

 

Kayaking
If you’ve not kayaked before then Menorca is the place to give it a go, warm waters and sparkling ocean make it a very welcoming sport. Double kayaks are a fun way to explore with someone else. I recommend booking onto an organised tour, especially if you want to adventure into caves along the coastline. I went on a kayaking tour from Cala Galdana in the south of the island; the Atrium Audax Hotel has an exciting 3-hour trip along the dramatic coastline. Heading east there are some incredible caves to explore, Dragon’s Cave being one of them, this trip is definitely for the adventurous, you get to paddle right inside this incredible cave. Equipped with head torches you will kayak through the entrance and once inside get to turn off your torch. How often can you say you’ve kayaked into the eerie darkness of a cave? The other stop off on this tour included a very narrow cave, kayaking through Pont de n’Ali, a limestone tunnel and further along at the final stop we go the chance to moor up and swim out of for a spot of snorkelling. The tour guide provided us with beers and snacks too; it was such a novelty to be perched on a rock, towering cliff edges behind, a cave to my right and a beer in my hand! On this trip the scenery is just beautiful, hidden coves and beaches, imposing cliffs and a bit of cave exploration too; all of which are only accessible via the sea.
Another place I recommend hiring a kayak is Punta Prima in the southeast. SUPaire have kayaks, paddle boards and windsurfers for hire. Around a mile from the beach is Illa de l’Aire an uninhabited island just right for exploring. Also known as Black Lizard Island as its only inhabitants are, you guessed it black lizards. The lighthouse on Illa de l’Aire is the tallest in Menorca standing at 38 metres high. Once you’ve navigated over, park up and explore the footpath leading right to the lighthouse, keep an eye out for the lizards on your way. This stop is even better if you find yourself to be the only ones there, a proper Robinson Crusoe moment! Check the conditions before going out as it can be a bit of a struggle in strong winds; the guys at SUPaire are the best ones to chat to.

 

 

Snorkelling
The incredibly clear waters surrounding Menorca are ideal for discovering underwater life. Grab a mask and snorkel and explore a whole other world. Snorkelling has to be one of the most popular watersports in Menorca and it’s easy to see why. From octopus to starfish and barracuda, there are plenty of beautiful creatures to be discovered. Don’t forget to take a GoPro to capture those underwater memories.
S’Algar and Cala Alcaufar are nearby each other on the south coast; both have rocky shorelines with an abundance of marine life. There is a dive school at S’Algar who offer snorkelling boat excursions too.
The beach at Es Grau is part of the S’Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve; shallow waters make it a great spot for everyone including children to have a go at this very relaxing activity.
Fornells is another protected area with an abundance of under water life.
Cala Morell in the north has a rocky seabed home to all sorts of sea creatures, making it the perfect place to snorkel. The small beach is pebbly so take protective footwear.

 

 

Stand Up Paddle Boarding
I love paddle boarding, perfect for adventuring out onto the water on a calm day. It is one of my favourite watersports to do in Menorca; it’s also good exercise for engaging your core muscles! Menorca is the perfect place to learn to paddle board as well as taking organised tours to explore the coastline. WindFornells offer rental and combined paddle board and snorkelling trips from Fornells Bay. While SUPaire in Punta Prima have paddle boards to hire and excursions along the coastline to hidden caves.

 

 

Boat Trips
It’s not all about exploring the open seas, a boat trip around the harbour in the capital Mahon is a great opportunity to see this pretty city from a different viewpoint and learn more about the history of the island. Climb aboard Yellow Catamarans for a one- hour tour on a glass bottom boat. Cruise along the largest natural harbour in the Mediterranean, past forts, hidden coves, islets and pretty architecture. Enjoy spotting the marine life from the glass bottom viewing area and hear all about Menorca’s rich history with the historical commentary. Out of all of the watersports in Menorca this is best for those who more keen on staying dry.
If history is your thing, another trip you shouldn’t miss is the short boat ride from the quaint fishing village of Cales Fonts in Es Castello to Lazareto. It was once used as a quarantine island; from 1817 to 1917 all ships entering Mahon and Europe were required to stop at Lazareto. Passengers were checked for diseases such as the plague and yellow fever and quarantined on the small island. Its buildings and heritage can now be discovered on a two hour guided tour. Tours run throughout the summer, choose an evening one to watch the sunset, it is magnificent from Lazareto.

 

 

Beaches
Watersports in Menorca aren’t the only way to enjoy the coastline; this blog post wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the beaches. With more than 70 to choose from it would be a crime not to spend some time on at least one of them and take in this Balearic Island’s laid-back vibes.
Arenal d’en Castell is a huge crescent shaped bay with a sheltered shoreline. The sparkling, shallow waters are picture perfect and just right for a refreshing dip or a spot of sunbathing. Cafes and bars are dotted between the wooden raised walkway, which is nice for a stroll too.
Punta Prima, located right in the centre of the tiny town this is a lovely small beach with views out over towards the lighthouse on Illa de l’Aire. There are rock pools to explore and crystal clear waters to dive into.
Cala Alcaufar is a gorgeous spot, there isn’t much of a sandy beach as such but it is beautiful. White washed authentic buildings and fishing huts line the rugged shoreline of this tiny bay.
The beach at Calas Mitjana has shallow, turquoise water backed by cliff tops of pine forests and is very popular. There are no facilities at this spot so pack a picnic and supplies for the day. In the height of the summer the car park fills up quickly, plan to arrive early to beat the crowds or reach it by boat.
The beaches in the north are quite different from the white sand beaches of the south. Full of natural beauty the sand is darker and rugged green cliffs back the shoreline. Pregonda Beach is one of my favourites with golden sand and glistening waters. There aren’t any facilities here, which is nice if you want total relaxation.

 

 

From caves to beaches there are many hidden spots only reach via the sea, making watersports in Menorca an adventurous was to discover some incredible locations you might etherise miss out on. Even if you’ve not had a go at any of them before choose a qualified instructor to help you, there’s so much waiting to be discovered. So jump in a kayak or climb aboard a boat, you won’t be disappointed.

 

I’ve written some other posts that maybe helpful if you are planning a trip to Menorca, read them here:
9 Things to do in Menorca: From visiting a bar in a clifftop cave to exploring the capital Mahon, this post is all about the tings you should add to your Menorca bucket list.
Kayaking Adventures in Menorca: One of my favourite watersports in Menorca, read in more detail about my kayaking adventures. There’s also a short video of my experiences of paddling through caves and exploring the coastline.
November 13, 2017 Spain 5 Comments

Finding Winter Sunshine in Mallorca…

*Thanks to the Balearics Tourist Board and Visit Spain for inviting me to Mallorca. I visited the island as part of the #betterinwinter campaign along with some lovely Instagrammers from Igers London….

 

I love the Balearic Islands, found in the Mediterranean off of the eastern coast of Spain, Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera are perfect for a sunny break away.  I enjoyed many summer family holidays in the Balearics when I was younger and have always thought of it as a summer holiday destination.  That is until I visited Mallorca in October, I was really surprised at how gorgeous the temperature was.  Highs of 24 degrees during the day and lows of 12 to 15 degrees in the evening.  Not only is it warm enough to spend time on the beach, being out of season there are less crowds to contend with, especially if you avoid the UK October half-term break.  Mallorca is often known to us Brits as Majorca and is the largest of the Balearics, it’s the perfect destination for some winter sun and what’s more not only are there plenty of beaches for relaxing on, there are also a lot of things to see and do.  Read on for my favourite Mallorca adventures best enjoyed in the winter sun…

 

Santanyí Market
Santanyí is a picture perfect Mallorcan town, rustic buildings, cobbled streets and a market held twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays amongst the winding streets and alleyways.  This bustling market is a must visit and operates until the end of October.  Stroll the streets, people watch and browse stalls full of leather bags, scarves, handmade jewellery, clothes, local produce including fruits, veg, meats and cheeses and some tasty looking cakes.  Try haggling too, stall owners are quite happy to bend their prices a little.

 

Lunch at Laudat
Combine a trip to the market in Santanyí with lunch at Laudat, a lovely restaurant in the heart of the town perfect fo catching your breath away from the hustle and bustle of the market.  Sit and enjoy sangria with your lunch amongst lemon trees and white washed walls in a gorgeous shaded court-yard garden.  The food here is some of the best I tasted while in Mallorca, starters I tried included beef tartar (my first time trying it, big thumbs up) and prawn salad with mango.  For the main I had steak with mashed potato, it was delicious and cooked to perfection.  Dessert was out of this world, a kind of chocolate cake drizzled with ice cream and fruity goodness.

 

Sunset cocktail at Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel and Spa
I don’t think I have ever seen a sunset quite like the one from the Sunset Sushi Lounge at this hotel.  This is definitely a really special thing to do.  What’s more the bars and restaurants at the Jumeirah are open to non-residents so you can spend an evening sipping on cocktails and watching the sunset over the ocean.  There are so many cocktails on the menu here it’s hard to know what to choose!  I went for the Kuler made with a local gin, it was the perfect accompaniment for admiring the ever-changing colours of the sky as the sun sunk below the horizon.

 

Cocktail at Puerto Portals
If you love cocktails with a view head to Baiben found right on the waterfront at Puerto Portals.  Sip away on a refreshing  beverage overlooking fancy yachts and the sparkling waters in the port.  Baiben have an extensive cocktail menu and will even rustle you up something on request if it’s not listed.  Being a lover of gin I chose the Mediterranean Julep, Gin Mare, Mediterranean herbs, bitter and elderflower.  Such a gorgeous cocktail in a lovely location.  Afterwards you can stroll along the waterfront shops and admire the yachts moored up.

 

Flor de Sal d’es Trenc
For a unique day trip visit Flor de Sal and find out how salt is harvested on a tour of the salt flats.  From evaporation to crystallization and drying techniques it is so interesting to see how salt is produced.  Plenty of sunshine, a gentle breeze and low air moisture are all required for the production of this completely natural product.  The salt is harvested by hand and deposited into huge salt mountains which can tower up to 10 metres high.  You could be mistaken for thinking you are in the Swiss Alps rather than next to a salt mountain in Mallorca! It certainly is an extraordinary place to visit.  This is sustainable tourism at its finest, an eco system generated from the salt production is home to over 200 hundred species of birds who live amongst the salt marshes, including flamencos and avocets.  Spot these pretty creatures in the distance amongst the marshes of this protected area.  Try some of the salt, purchase from the on-sight shop and enjoy a coffee right next to the salt flats.  Go on a tour of the salt production from April to October.

 

Es Trenc Beach
Crystal clear turquoise waters, backed by pine forests and sand dunes this beach is a beauty.  Located right by Flor de Sal d’es Trenc, combine a visit to the salt farm with some beach time, you won’t be disappointed.  Perfect for families the water is shallow and calm and busy areas of the beach have lifeguards on duty.  The shoreline stretches for 2km along Mallorca’s south coast.  Apart from paddle boarding there are no watersports on this beach so you can enjoy a tranquil, unspoilt day on the beach.  Snorkel, explore the sand dunes and swim in the turquoise waters.

 

Explore Palma on foot
The beautiful capital city of Mallorca is best discovered on foot.  Stroll the cobbled alleyways taking in the gorgeous architecture, stop for a traditional Mallorcan pastry (Ensaimada) at one of the many bakeries or coffee shops and be sure to visit the cathedral.  Gothic in style this beautiful building can be visited throughout the year.  Admire the beautiful stain glass windows and go on a rooftop tour to gain a completely different perspective on this magnificent building.  The view of the city from the rooftops is wonderful and to see the architecture of the cathedral from the roof is amazing.  The huge stained glass windows are just as beautiful from the outside as they are on the inside, the rose window on the east side of the building is one of the largest in the world.

 

Cala Figuera
This quaint fishing village is a lovely place to visit out of season.  Tranquil and full of rustic Mallorcan charm I loved wandering along the narrow waterfront past boat sheds, white washed buildings with coloured doors touching the water, cats perch on doorsteps and fishermen bringing in their catch.  Pretty boats line the tiny port and the crystal clear waters look beautiful under the Mediterranean sunshine.  A very picturesque spot.

 

Bellver Castle
I’m not normally one for castles but there’s something about Bellver Castle that makes it stand out.  Built in the 14th century it is Gothic in style with imposing towers and circular in shape, the open interior is very impressive.  Climb the castle steps to the rooftops for magnificent views of Palma and look back down towards the centre of the castle, it’s fascinating.

 

Tapas at Belmond La Residencia
Originally owned by Richard Branson La Residencia is stunning.  Perched amongst towering hillsides and looking down onto quaint villages, the views are breathtaking.  Stay a night or two and visit the resident donkeys who live amongst the hotels olive groves or grab a paint brush and paint the surroundings with the resident artist.  Even if you don’t stay here book in for lunch, the tapas is to die for with traditional dishes and cured meats, this is a place to enjoy Mallorca at its finest.

 

Stay in a rural retreat
I spent two night at Hilton Sa Torre, once a stately home, dating back to the 14th century it is unlike an other Hilton I have stayed in before.  The buildings original features have all been lovingly restored and each of the rooms retain old charm and character.  Within the grounds there are two swimming pools, an indoor pool and spa, a running track, a chapel and even a beautiful windmill.  Although only 20 minutes from Palma airport Sa Torre is located in a rural area, making it a very tranquil retreat.  Breakfast included a huge variety from continental to cooked and local pastries.  Evening meals here are divine, if it’s on the menu try the Sa Torre’s Pigeon with marmalade, I loved it.

 

 

This island is definitely better in winter…
 
June 29, 2017 Spain 4 Comments

9 Things to do in Menorca…

Menorca sits in the Mediterranean and can be reached in around two hours flying time from London. One of the Balearic Islands, Menorca is perhaps a little lesser known than its sister islands Ibiza and Majorca but don’t overlook it as this little gem has something for everyone. For adventure seekers there are a whole host of activities from kayaking to horse riding and paragliding. Outdoor enthusiasts will love adventuring along Cami de Cavalls, 180 kms of walking routes that cover the whole of the island. For history buffs there are forts and megalithic monuments and lets not forget the beach lovers, Menorca’s 160km of coastline is covered in white sand beaches with turquoise waters just right for kicking back and relaxing on. Families will also love this idyllic island. A Biosphere Reserve, Menorca proudly preserves its natural environment and I can see why. After being invited on a weeklong press trip with Spain, Menorca and Traverse Events I am now desperate to get back there! The trip consisted of dinner and drinks at some of Menorca’s best bars and restaurants and the days were jam packed with boat trips, exploring pretty towns and historical landmarks, gin tasting, (right up my street!) a visit to a shoe factory and the opportunity to see some of Menorca’s finest beaches. I also managed to squeeze in a bit of pool time in honour of the hashtag #MenorcaSlow! Read on for my 9 must do’s in Menorca…
Explore Mahon
Mahon, the capital of Menorca is full of beautiful architecture, white washed buildings and tiny lanes, which are great for exploring. Steeped in history and home to one of the world’s largest natural harbours there is plenty to see and do in this pretty city. For a different view take a boat tour around the harbour, Yellow Catamarans have glass bottom boats, great for spotting marine life. The one-hour trip cruises around the harbour, past fortifications, the pretty fishing village of Es Castells and hidden beaches. A stop in a gorgeous cove with the opportunity to pop below deck to the glass bottom for a bit of sea life spotting is a fun extra. Back on dry land stroll around the quaint streets, pick up a frozen Pomada (I’ll talk more about this below) and people watch. Mahon is great for shopping; visit the fish market and Mercat del Claustre del Carme which is full of local produce, the famous Mahon cheese, clothes and jewellery. Shoe shopping is a must here, Menorca is famous for its sandals, they come in all sorts of colours and can be found in many shops around the city. I’ve never seen such beautiful leather sandals in so many different colours!
Visit a gin distillery
If like me you love a drop of gin then this place is a must visit! The Xoriguer gin distillery in Mahon is a fun and interesting visit, sample Menorca’s favourite tipple in the tasting room, also try the other flavours, chocolate, peppermint and chamomile to name just a few. The distillery can be viewed through glass windows, I was lucky enough to step foot behind inside and marvel at the gin making process. The gin is distilled using water from the harbour and infused with juniper berries. It can be purchased in glass and ceramic bottles; the latter were supposedly used by pirates and can be kept and refilled. I have added Xoriguer to my own gin collection and now only drink it with lemon…
Drink Pomada in a cave
Still on the gin theme, Pomada is a local creation; gin mixed with cloudy lemonade, or Lemon Fanta, its delicious and is now my new favourite drink! Order it frozen or straight up as it is. The best place to drink this fabulous gin concoction has to be at Cova D‘En Xoroi a bar in a cave on the edge of the ocean. A unique setting to watch the sunset this place was originally used by pirates for smuggling. Today the caves have cosy corners with awesome sea views, a decked area out on a breezy edge and plenty of Pomada! This has to be one of the best bars on the island and an unforgettable place to have a drink.
Jump into the ocean
There are a lot of rocky outcrops dotted along the coast just right for jumping into the crystal clear Mediterranean ocean. The tiny fishing community of Alcaufar was my favourite place to do this. A gorgeous inlet of turquoise water and a good snorkelling spot. Take care to check out where you are jumping, be sure the water is deep enough and there is enough clearance away from rocks. I stayed in S’Algar, a 15-minute walk across the rocks from Alcaufar, although it has no beach there are ladders on the rocks to swim in the sea and some good spots for jumping in. Check out Brendan Van Son’s Menorca Vlog, 3 minutes in I join him and his GoPro for some awesome saltwater jumps!

 

Have dinner with incredible views at Cap Roig
Plan to get to Cap Roig before sunset, high up on a bluff overlooking the town of Sa Mesquida and the ocean the views are stunning, especially if you get to see the sun go down. It’s picture perfect setting with fantastic service, gorgeous food and great wine. I sampled some great seafood here; small starter plates included squid, cuttlefish, cured ham and sea anemone. This was the first time I had tried sea anemone and I’ve got to say I’m not much of a fan, I’m glad I tried it though! For my main I had hake with chips and it did not disappoint, washed down with a crisp white wine and taking in the spectacular sunset was a wonderful way to spend a Friday evening.

 

Visit a winery
For a special evening out Binifadet winery is the one, take a stroll around the vines in the evening light and sample one of the many wines produced here along with tapas dishes or a main meal. The setting is gorgeous with tables outside overlooking the vines.
Relax on a beach
Menorca has 160 km of coastline and over 100 beaches, so relaxing on a beach is not hard to do. Find your own unspoilt bay such as Cala Binidali or Trebalúger, only reached on foot or by boat they are often very quiet. In the north the beaches are quite different with red sand, try Cavalleria, a lovely bay perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The water temperature is an average of 18°c and very inviting in the heat of the day. I know I’ve mentioned it more than once but the sparkling turquoise sea and perfectly white sand is just such a dreamy combination!
Kayak
Kayaking is a must do in Menorca, join an organised trip with an instructor and see the island from a different angle. Hiring a double kayak is a lot of fun and a good way to start off if you’ve not kayaked before. Discover caves and hidden beaches that you wouldn’t get to see from the land. I kayaked with a guide from Cala Galdana and got to explore some incredible caves as well as snorkel in the crystal clear Mediterranean, check out my blog post for more information: Kayaking Adventures in Menorca.  Thanks to Steve from Biggsy Travels for the gorgeous image of me kayaking through the cliffs.
Eat like a local
Menorcans are seafood lovers, I am too so I got to sample a lot of the local seafood. Menorca is all about long lazy lunches with many different courses. Famous for its cheese this is often served up during the starter courses with cured meats. Tomato bread is a favourite of mine too. Be wary though not to fill up too much on the starter plates, as there are always some good main dishes to follow! Head to the waterfront in Mahon for tapas with gorgeous views.  Thanks to the lovely Nienke Krook from The Travel Tester for the images.
Visit Fort Marlborough
If you are interested in learning a little bit of history while in Menorca then Fort Marlborough is definitely worth a visit. Built by the British during the 1700s to protect the entrance of Mahon Harbour it is an impressive structure. Walk through tunnels carved out of rock and up on to the roof of the fort where there are views of the sea and surrounding countryside. A self-guided, audio tour takes around one hour and brings the fort to life. Park up and walk through the quaint waterside dwelling of Cala de Sant Esteve or walk the 2km from Es Castell.
Thanks to Jet2 for getting me to Menorca and to Visit Spain, Turismo Menorca and Traverse Events for inviting me.

 

June 3, 2017 Spain 3 Comments

Kayaking adventures in Menorca…

Menorca is found in the Mediterranean and is the perfect place for getting out on the water, crystal clear, oh so warm and 160 km of coastline; perfect for saltwater adventures. One of the Balearic Islands, Menorca is a Biosphere Reserve, the balance between tourism and nature is very clear to see.  This small, calm and charming island is the place to visit not just for a beach holiday but for an active one too.
Water sports are my thing so while in Menorca kayaking sounded like a lot of fun. Leaving from Cala Galdana I clambered into my double kayak for the morning with my paddle buddy and we were off. Following the rocky cliff edges and gullies, we passed some beautiful hidden coves, views of towering cliff tops covered in dense pine forests and sparkling turquoise waters.  This wasn’t just any old kayaking trip though, no, no, this was a very adventurous one! As we followed the other kayakers in our group we headed towards Dragons Cave, when you are inside the noise of the water pushing in and out of the entrance sounds like a dragon breathing. Our guide handed out head torches and we paddled in through a narrow opening. The further we paddled in, the darker it got and once in the belly of the cave we turned our lights off. It was pitch black, very eerie and like nothing I have experienced before. The next cave was a bit of a challenge; we paddled through an extremely narrow opening. In fact it was so tight we had to rest our paddles in the kayak and use our hands to pull us through into the next cave. Potentially nerve-wracking but ultimately a lot of fun! Continuing back out in the ocean we paddled further east and through Pont de n’Ali, an incredible tunnel in the cliffs. We ‘parked up’ our kayaks in the final cave and snorkelled out. The water was clear and so refreshing, a beer and crisps perched on a rock was a fabulous pit stop and felt like such a novelty, it’s not everyday you get to cheers on a rock! It was such an awesome experience, if you are looking for something a bit adventurous to do on your trip to Menorca I would definitely recommend kayaking. It’s a completely different way to see the coastline and kayaking into the darkness of a cave or stepping on a secret beach are unique adventures. I’d recommend going with a kayaking company if you don’t have much kayaking experience, especially for exploring the caves. An instructor can teach you the basic techniques and keep you safe on the water. Sea kayaking in Menorca is perfect for all abilities from beginners to pros and families too, so take a break from the pool and go have an adventure!
I visited Menorca on a press trip as part of the #MustSeeMenorca campaign, thanks to Visit Spain and Traverse Events for having me!

February 21, 2017 Spain Post a Comment

Expect the unexpected in Alicante…

Narrow cobbled streets, brightly painted buildings with Juliette balconies, Gothic churches and the Museum of Contemporary Art. This was not my expectation when I arrived in Alicante for a hen party. Call me narrow-minded but I was expecting Benidorm with its high-rise hotels and touristy beachfronts. This is, I guess where you would expect to go on a hen party, so finding the complete opposite I was very pleasantly surprised. We began by exploring the lovely old town of Alicante and found ourselves right in the hustle and bustle of the very traditional Easter celebrations that were going on. Crowds of people were lined up along the streets to watch the parades and processions. Being a Catholic community it was clear to see that a lot of time and effort had been put into the celebrations. A masked procession on Easter Friday included people in long red robes with pointed hats, to me this appeared quite sinister. I have since learnt that they represent the people of Nazareth and are masked to show mourning. Huge biblical figures carried on floats and marching bands also joined the procession. I felt really lucky to have seen these celebrations, it is interesting to discover how other countries celebrate certain events.
Leaving the parades behind we made our way through the cobbled streets and found our accommodation. It was an amazing two-storey apartment at the top of a lovely old building, full of character and charm; topped off by a fantastic roof terrace. The panoramic views of the old town, the ocean and Castle of Santa Barbara were incredible. Breakfast up on the terrace was just perfect; bread, cheese, cured meats, orange juice and the sounds of the church bells tolling as the town awoke. My daily visit to the tiny corner shop, to stock up on goods for our apartment was interesting, let down by my bad Spanish skills I had to mime an action to ask for toilet paper. Luckily the friendly shopkeeper saw the funny side of it and loved teaching me a few words, that day I learnt the Spanish word for ‘bottom’! All I can say is that I’m glad I was the only one in the shop at the time!
I’m a real food lover and eating out in Alicante was everything I wanted it to be, Tapas bars, Paella and fresh fish. Lovely squares with alfresco dining, topped off by very friendly locals, you couldn’t ask for more. I loved exploring and getting lost in the narrow streets, this led to some great discoveries such as a local market, beautiful churches and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
In contrast to the solemness of the parades during the day, the evenings are seen as a time for celebrating. As a result, all the bars stayed open until very late. This equalled lots of partying for the hens!
The trip was the total opposite of what I expected and ended up being a very cultural weekend, at the same time as being a lot of fun. It has opened up my eyes and taught me to think twice about visiting and exploring places that I might already have certain opinions about.  As this trip showed me those views can sometimes be very wrong!
Head over to Lonely Planet for more on this beautiful part of the world.