The small but perfectly formed island of Menorca is somewhat overshadowed by its flashier and more famous neighbours Ibiza and Mallorca. But this compact slice of paradise which lies off the coast of Spain in the Med is a Balearic jewel, too, and a great getaway for families, couples and singles.

Minorca (often referred to as 'Menorca') enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and short, mild winters. The island enjoys about 300 days of sunshine per year. Summer is the prime time to visit Minorca but the hot temperatures usually last well into October. Summer temperatures average in the mid 20s, peaking at 28 degrees centigrade in August, with up to eleven hours of sunshine per day. The coastline is remarkably pretty and the best beaches; Cala en Turqueta in the south, and Cala Pregonda in the north, require a bit of walking in order to be reached. Or, you can arrive at either via boat.

Large portions of the island have been designated a World Biosphere by the UN. The south-east corner of the island is flat, hot and rich in prehistoric settlements from over 3,000 years ago. Torralaba d'en Salort is considered to be the best of these ancient settlements.

The capital city of Minorca is Mahon (or Mao) which has the deepest natural harbor in the Med. This area is very British in both it's history and its influence. The other main city is Ciutadella, on the other end of the island. As well as being decidedly more Spanish in atmosphere, it's palaces, narrow cobbled streets and pink sandstone buildings lend it a Moorish feel. There is an annual fiesta here at the end of June which is considered to be the most celebratory fiesta on the island.