On the northern coast of Menorca, where the north wind blows and the landscape becomes wilder, there is a small fishing village that continues to live at its own pace. This is none other than that of the fishing boats that enter the port, that of the walks along the promenade and that of the after-dinner meals that last after a good tribute of fresh fish. Whitewashed houses, colored shutters and an immense bay, which is one of the largest on the island and acts as a natural refuge. Because in Fornells the only thing you want is to stay.
What to see in Fornells
Fornells is not a “checklist” destination, but it does have corners that call for a trip. The first is its own bay, a natural port of several kilometers where the sea calms down and draws one of the most beautiful pictures in the north of the island. Walking through the port, watching the boats rock and letting time pass and the sun set is, in itself, a plan.
Ben Salter
Among the essentials is the Torre de Fornells, a fortification built by the British at the beginning of the 19th century. Going up to it is not only rewarding because of its history but also because the views it offers of the coast are one of those that remain in your memory (and in your mobile phone gallery, of course).
Nearby, the ruins of the Castillo de San Antonio recall the defensive origins of the town, built in the 17th century to protect the island from pirate attacks. Today only vestiges remain, but enough to understand how it all began.
Discasto
In the center, the Church of San Antonio Abad provides that counterpoint of calm and simplicity, with its white façade and its calm and simple air. And if you fancy something more unusual, the Hermitage of Lourdes, almost hidden in the rock, has that surprising and intimate feel.
Where to eat delicious and cheap in Fornells
Let's get to the important thing: here you (also) come to eat. And yes, the lobster stew is the queen of the menu and a culinary gem. It is not the cheapest dish in the world, but in Fornells it tastes like few other places.
One of the classics to taste is Es Cranc, with that traditional air and dishes without artifice, where the product speaks for itself. If you are looking for something equally authentic but with a broader menu, Sa Llagosta is another safe bet, especially for eating fish and seafood.
Otto Domes
For more informal options (and a little kinder on the pocket), Can Tanu is a very good option for its rice, tapas and homemade food. And Sa Proa, right on the seafront, is perfect for eating well without complications, with a taste of the sea and without exorbitant prices.
What to do around Fornells
If you find it difficult to stay still, although it is easy to rest and disconnect here, the surroundings of Fornells have even more things to offer.
The nearby beaches are a good example. Cala Tirant is the most accessible, with sand and dunes, perfect for spending the day. If you are looking for something wilder, Cala Cavalleria and Cala Pregonda offer the more rugged and less domesticated landscape that characterizes the north of this Balearic island.
Juanje Orio
You can also go to Cabo de Cavallería, where the cliffs exceed 90 meters and the lighthouse becomes one of the best places to see the sunset live.
And if more active plans are your thing, Fornells Bay is ideal for practicing sports such as kayaking, paddle surfing or sailing. The calm water and protected environment make it easy even if you are not an expert.
Fornells is one of those places where you arrive and expect nothing more than peace and beach, and it gives you everything: calm, landscape and a table facing the sea that you will probably remember for a lifetime.
Cover photo | Radmon photos
