Menorca's Camí de Cavalls leads you around the perimeter of the island, along spectacular coastline, through ancient forests and among historic farmland...

 

The Camí de Cavalls: A Journey Around Menorca’s Untamed Coastline

Menorca is an island best discovered slowly, step by step, "poc a poc" as the locals say (little by little). There is no better way to immerse yourself in its raw, diverse beauty than by following the Camí de Cavalls, Menorca's historic trail that encircles the island and provides an incredibly diverse set of hikes for such a small island. This ancient path, winding through golden fields, pine-scented forests, and along the seaside among rugged cliffs, is more than just a hiking route; it is a journey through Menorca’s soul.

Above: the Camí on the southside of the island, in between Son Bou and Santo Tomas.

A Path Through Time

The Camí de Cavalls (literally, “Way of Horses”) is more than 185 kilometers of well-trodden trail, a living testament to Menorca’s history. Its origins date back to at least the 14th century, when it was used by mounted soldiers to patrol the coast against pirate invasions. Over time, it became a vital artery for farmers, fishermen, and traders, connecting the island’s original settlements.

For centuries, the path was largely abandoned, falling into disrepair as modern roads took precedence. But in the early 2000s, a passionate movement to restore and reopen the route gained momentum, leading to its official reopening in 2010. Many of the island’s historic farms played a crucial role in this restoration, voluntarily providing access through their lands to reconnect the fragmented sections and make the Camí de Cavalls whole again. Today, it stands as one of Menorca’s greatest treasures—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve-certified trail that allows visitors to experience the island’s pristine landscapes in the most intimate way possible.


Hidden Gems Along the Trail

The Camí de Cavalls is not just about the journey; it is also about the discoveries along the way. Many of Menorca’s most beautiful beaches are only accessible via the trail, with designated car parks reducing pressure on the fragile coastal ecosystems. Beaches like Cala Mitjana, Cala Pilar, and Cala Pregonda reward hikers with crystal-clear waters and untouched natural beauty, making every step worth the effort.

How to Hike the Trail

The Camí de Cavalls is easily accessible because it is located on the perimeter of the island (drive to the coast and you are bound to find an access point). Camí de Cavalls guidebooks are sold in many local supermarkets in various languages.

Some of the best day hikes on the Camí include:

  1. On the southside of the island: Son Bou to Santo Tomas (access point at the Son Beach parking lot - walk the beach until you get to Cala Talis and then you will find the trail -  or, even better, park below the HG Jardin Hotel in Torre Solí and walk the cami from there, you will see some stunning scenery)
  2. On the northside of the island: Es Grau (park in the village of Es Grau and walk along the beach until you access the trail)

Respecting the Camí

Since the Camí crosses through privately-owned farmland, much of which is used to graze cows, sheep and pigs, it is very important to always close gates behind you and never leave trash along the way.

The Spirit of Menorca

Whether you complete it in full or explore just a fragment, each step along this ancient trail brings a deeper connection to Menorca’s land, its people, and its timeless spirit. So lace up your boots, the Camí de Cavalls is waiting to be explored, one breathtaking moment at a time.

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