Infuse A Little History Into A Family Holiday In Menorca

Menorca may be famous for its beachside bliss, but the island has plenty to offer thosein search of exciting historical experiences, too.

There are some great medieval castles just waiting to be explored during your familyholiday in Menorca and wonderful Ciutadella is home to some excellent examples thatwill be enjoyed by both parents and children alike.

Fort Marlborough

Fort Marlborough is an excellent, family-friendly castle situated by the sea at Cala deSant Esteve. The fort boasts a rich history: it was built by British conquerors, and, until itwas destroyed by the Spanish in 1782, it played a key role in the battle over thepossession of the island.

If you decide to visit the fort during your family holiday in Menorca, the kids certainlywon’t be bored: the attraction is highly interactive and really makes history come alive.

What makes the fort so special is what lies below the rock. You’ll have the chance toexplore secret underground tunnels and rooms, and as you explore, sound effects andsoldiers in uniform will recreate the feeling of being under siege. It really is the perfectchance to get the kids enthused about history in a truly immersive environment.

The fun doesn’t end there. Military equipment and cannons take pride of place in thedisplays, and once you make the trip up the stairs of the tower you’ll find a great spot forsnapping a couple of pictures to remember your family holiday in Menorca by.

Fortaleza de Isabel II

This fortress is one of the best examples of 19th century military architecture on theisland. It was commissioned in 1848 by Isabel II in reaction to rising pressure fromBritain’s navy. Because it was never actually attacked, it has been remarkablypreserved.

Visiting the fortress, which also goes by the name Fortaleza de la Mola, is especiallyrecommended to those travelling with younger children. There is lots of outdoor space torun around and explore – just make sure to stock up on sun cream and water, becausethere is not too much shade in the middle of the day.

Castillo Menorca

If you want to continue the fortress-themed fun during your trip to Ciutadella, considervisiting Castillo.

Although it’s named after and shaped like a castle, this attraction is not a real historicalsite. However, what it offers is a great change of pace that will supplement the otherhistorical adventures of the day, and it will undoubtedly prove to be something that thekids will really look forward to.

With a go-karting area, swimming pool, waterslide, diving boards, trampolines, mini-golf,garden, and a separate toddler’s pool—not to mention a shopping area with the largestdisplay of Llardró porcelain on the island—you won’t be short on things to do.

Where to Stay

There are some real benefits to choosing a villa over other kinds of accommodation for yourfamily holiday in Menorca: extra room, the option to self cater and a private pool for starters.Villas come highly recommended when travelling with youngsters.

If you visit these castles, you’re sure to have a family holiday to remember—and you’ll allcome away knowing a little more about the local history than you did before.

Author Plate

Brenda Jaaback, Managing Director of Bartle Holidays, is a renowned Menorca expert. Fromits history to its people and from its wildlife to its cuisine - no secret of the island remainshidden to her. Personally selecting the finest properties for her clients, Brenda is the go-toperson for anyone looking for a relaxing family holiday in Menorca. Bartle Holidays makes no warranty as to the accuracy of information contained in this article and excludes any liability of any kind for the information.