Port Mahon

Port Mahon (Maó) is the capital of Menorca, sitting at the far end of one of the deepest natural harbours in the Mediterranean. Ships dock in the lower harbour, and steps or a ramp lead up to the town above. The town's main square, Plaça d'Espanya, has a fish market and is a good starting point. The architecture shows a mix of Georgian (British colonial), Spanish, and Moorish influences. Fort Marlborough and La Mola fortress guard opposite ends of the harbour and are both open to visitors. The Xoriguer gin distillery in the port area produces gin using wood-fired copper stills, a tradition from the British period. Menorca's beaches are some of the best in the Mediterranean: Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana have clear water and pine-backed coves. Menorcan cheese (Mahón-Menorca) and lobster stew (caldereta de langosta) are the local specialties. The euro is the currency.