A PERFECT WEEKEND IN MAHON
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Cristine Bedfor
If there is one place in Mahón where we feel right at home, it is Cristine Bedfor. It is situated right in the heart of the harbor—the second-largest natural harbor in the world—and that says it all: you are staying literally within the city, with the harbor as a backdrop and all of Mahón within easy walking distance. After all, simply getting lost among the streets, shops, and restaurants is an experience in itself.
The décor bears the signature of interior designer Lorenzo Castillo, who has tastefully blended English, French, and Spanish antiques to create a style that marries the boutique hotel aesthetic with the charm of an English country house—a look we adore in every corner. You’ll find unique headboards in every room, patterned fabrics, white tones that let the Mediterranean setting take center stage, and objects with a story to tell scattered throughout. Every detail has clearly been thoughtfully considered, yet the hotel feels like a home rather than a typical hotel. "It isn't a hotel you just pass through; it’s the home where you want to stay when you visit Mahón."
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Cristine's Kitchen
Located within the Cristine Bedfor hotel and with Pau Sintes at the helm of the kitchen, this Menorcan chef became Europe’s best young chef at just 21 years old by cooking a stuffed "poor man's eggplant"—a dish that embodies the essence of Menorcan cuisine. "His approach is authentic; it follows neither established patterns nor trends, but rather demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and the local region—a steadfast determination to champion local heritage and create a dining experience that is quintessentially Menorcan" (1).
The restaurant, which holds a Michelin Key, reflects this same aesthetic character, featuring charming vintage furniture, mirrors, and rugs. "His cuisine is Mediterranean market-style, deeply rooted in the island's own produce (sourdough bread with Menorcan accompaniments, red prawns, artisanal *sobrasada*, and the catch of the day from Sa Llotja)" (2)
(1). Siete Caníbales (2). Michelin Guide
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Coffee, pool, and a walk
Your first must-do stop is for coffee at Pigalle, the island’s coolest bakery. Located in the heart of Maó’s old town, it occupies a space that used to be a restaurant—and kept the name. During the renovation, they exposed the building's historic walls and installed large windows so passersby can see right into the workshop; you can sit and enjoy breakfast while watching the baking process live. They serve specialty coffee and house-made pastries—croissants, sourdough bread, and cakes—baked fresh daily. It’s the perfect way to start the day.
Afterward, spend the morning by the hotel pool, relaxing and finally reading that novel you always pack but never get around to opening properly. While you're there, take your time exploring the entire hotel—the ideal plan for a leisurely morning.
For lunch, Cap Roig is a must-visit to try the island’s most famous dish: lobster with fried eggs and potatoes. If you’re craving rice instead, El Raís hits the spot.
In the evening, we love heading over to Es Castell—a small harbor near Mahón—for a stroll and dinner. There are several excellent options: the classic choice is El Trébol, serving seafood, fish, and traditional dishes—classic, authentic fare. Then there’s Pintarroja; though it arrived a few years ago, it has already become an island staple, offering a more modern twist.
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King's Island
There is one plan we consider a must-do: taking the iconic yellow ferry across to Isla del Rey—a tiny islet right in the middle of Mahón harbor—at sunset. It owes its name to King Alfonso III of Aragon, who landed there in 1287 before reconquering the island from the Moors; in fact, January 17th, the anniversary of that conquest, is celebrated as Menorca Day. However, the most significant chapter in its history came centuries later during the first period of British rule: in 1711, the Royal Navy built a naval hospital there—the first British military hospital constructed outside the UK. It remained in operation for nearly 250 years, until 1964, when the facility was moved to the mainland and the building was abandoned. Decades later, a volunteer association rescued it from oblivion, and today it is a National Historic-Artistic Monument.
Now, the old hospital shares the space with a permanent exhibition by Hauser & Wirth—one of the island's major cultural highlights in recent years—featuring gardens designed by Piet Oudolf amidst the ruins. This year, the island saw yet another chapter added to its history when the Australian brand Alémais chose Isla del Rey to showcase its Resort collection, using the hospital and gardens as a runway. It is further proof that this corner of Mahón has become one of the most special spots in the entire Mediterranean.
To round off the visit, there is dinner at the on-site restaurant, Cantina, offering views of the harbor and the illuminated houses across the water—vistas that can only be enjoyed from this unique location.
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Shopping in Mahon
In Menorca, you simply have to buy a pair of *abarcas* (traditional leather sandals), and we recommend visiting S'Abarca; they offer a wide range of leathers and colors and can even customize them for you—though they do take a day to prepare, so it’s best to go on your first day. As for clothing, some of our favorite shops offering unique items include Tembo, Casa M, and La Cerería. In recent years, some incredibly characterful home décor shops have opened that are well worth a visit: Can Sab in Mahón and Can Sancia in Sant Climent.
Another great idea is to drop by the Cayón gallery; they always have something special on display, and the space itself is worth the visit. Afterward, dinner on the terrace or in the courtyard at Oysters Menorca makes for the perfect end to the evening.
Strolling around the harbor is also a fantastic activity in itself, with charming shops, ice cream parlors, and bars featuring inviting terraces. If your visit coincides with the *Mercat de Nit* (night market), don't miss it—the atmosphere in the square is wonderful. During the day, head to the fish market, visit the church, and enjoy the harbor views right behind it.
And you can't leave Menorca without trying an *ensaimada*. We recommend the ones from La Mejor in Mahón’s main square; it has that old-school charm and a lovely terrace for a mid-morning break. A little insider tip: buy the small, individual-sized ones and toast them in a pan—using their own lard—until the outside caramelizes. They are absolutely addictive.
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A Day in the Water
In Menorca, renting a boat for a day is a must. While the island is beautiful from land, the colors of the water and the rocks are truly mesmerizing from the sea. There are many rental agencies, but for a more authentic experience, we recommend a *llaüt*—the island's traditional boat. You can rent one through "Menorca en Llaüt," or—in the incredibly picturesque coastal village of Fornells—through "The Fleet Menorca," which offers small *llaüts* you can pilot yourself on an hourly basis.
Cavalleria is a special beach—larger than the typical coves, which can get very crowded in summer—known for its sand and reddish clay-like rocks. Afterward, you simply have to head up to the Cavalleria lighthouse to watch the sunset and grab a drink on the terrace; it’s one of the best experiences on the island, making you feel like you’re starring in an Estrella Damm commercial.
And if you’re serious foodies looking for a top-notch tasting menu, you can’t miss Sa Pedrera des Pujol.
