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Yes, it's a Balearic - but there's a touch of the Aegean about Menorca - the most relaxing of all Spain's offshore holiday spots. Despite a few generations of tourism, this historic island has lost little of its easy-going charm, its honest pleasures and unhurried way of doing things. So much so, in fact, that holidays in Menorca have that stress-free simplicity you get in the most enchanting small Greek islands.

A historic hotspot full of mystery

Menorca's 'Taulas' - strange T shaped stone monuments are remnants of a Bronze Age society who were familiar with the movements of the stars. Their sturdy stone temples are perfectly aligned with the major constellations. These, coupled with the island's many other burial mounds, give Menorca a mysterious air. For a straightforward history tour, the Museum of Menorca, housed in a beautifully restored building in the centre of Mahon, is a good place to start unravelling the island's mysteries.

A coastline just made to explore

Mahon's huge harbour - Europe's biggest - makes for a breezy sea-front stroll but, for better views, climb above it (there's a winding set of steps at the head of the inlet) for a stroll from Placa Espana, all the way to the gin distillery. Apartments in Menorca take advantage of the island's miles of golden beaches - such as Son Bou, the island's widest stretch of sand, backed by soft dunes and the occasional beach bar.

Island produce, served fresh each day

Surprisingly, Menorca - and specifically Mahon - has earned its place in culinary history. Mahonesa, or Mayonnaise, was invented in one of the city's restaurants. All inclusive holidays in Menorca enjoy a wide range of freshly prepared local delicacies. Fish dishes are better here than in neighbouring Mallorca, with steaks (from the British-introduced cattle) especially fine. The island's pastry is light and delicate, and found in sweet, fruity desserts such as pastisset and crespell. Some typical Menorcan dishes include caldereta de langosta, or lobster bisque, calamares rellenos - stuffed squid, and berenjenas al horno - baked aubergines. Menorcan cheeses are amongst the best in Europe, if not the world and can be enjoyed with a glass of Menorcan Gin - another remnant of British rule.

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