Menorca is known as "Blue Island" for its clean, clear waters.

The Island of Menorca is most definitely the sleepy relation of the Balearics. It has a beautiful coastline and a fascinating history influenced by numerous invasions including the English, French and Arabs.

The islands' interior is very easy on the eye, dry stone walls, creating a chequerboard landscape brightened with the crimson splash of roadside poppies. It's rather like the Cotswolds with endless sun and the sea just around the corner. Two main towns, Mahon and Ciudadela, display an elegant mixture of Georgian, Spanish and Moorish style buildings. Mahon has the world's second deepest natural harbour, which is why the British moved the capital here. In the centre of Minorca, a monastery sits on top of Monte Toro and on a clear day there are views of the whole island below.

All in all, it's thoroughly charming, if not the place to choose if you're looking for a peaceful and civilised break.