Mallorca to Menorca Spain

 The skyline on our walk into the city was very impressive as the sun came up with the massive Bellver Castle high up on the hill and with the La Seu Cathedral nearby. It was nice to walk through the cloisters before all the crowds came. We didn't get to view inside as the cathedral didn't open until 1pm.

Palma in Mallorca is sixty miles of the coast of mainland Spain. We really enjoyed our wanders through the old town full of beautiful colourful buildings and shady streets with endless cafes, restaurants and stalls along the main street. Very hot but pleasant in the evenings once the sun had gone down.

 The harbour in Ciutadella Menorca was another fabulous stop. A much smaller port which meant we were anchored off shore with a short tender ride to land. The medieval streets winding through the old quarter of the town were delightful and I would have to say its the cleanest town we have been to in Europe and possibly will still be the cleanest we saw when we end our trip. The fishing harbour was free from debris, the streets had no litter and the shops were immaculate. Its almost like all the residents had an Obsessive compulsive Disorder because it was so in order and just nothing was out of place.

 We had an evening meal on shore in Ciutadella and it was the nicest meal we have had. We chose a salad which had the most beautiful flavours along with fresh fish topped with a very mild ginger glaze and vegetable skewers which came sitting in a glass of cucumber and mint yoghurt. The vegetables had a fine crunchy noodle like coating on them. Not sure what it was because of the language difficulties. All the flavours blended together really well. We probably would have gone back the next night to try something else but we had an offer to dine on the back of the ship with the back dropped down. We couldn't say no because you don't get the chance to do that very often and it is such a lovely experience especially when its so warm and balmy and you get a beautiful sunset thrown in. Unfortunately I had forgotten to take my camera down.

 Cuitadella at night.

 Our sail into Mahon Menorca early yesterday morning was stunning. We came here last year and loved it, so were really looking forward to coming back. Its the Capital of Spains Ballearic  Islands and has one of the deepest harbours in the world.

 Yesterday we watched a special performance of the the Menorcan Horse Show which was put on for the ship on the dockside. It was wonderful. Im not usually excited about horse events but this was very very good. The equestrian centre here in Menorca is dedicated to the teaching of Dressage with the thoroughbred Menorquina stallions. They had carousels of horses crossing both in trot and canter and disciplines including walking on there hind legs. The breed of these horses has been listed as endangered. They are known for their obedient and elegant temperament.

Tomorrow we will arrive in Tarragona Spain for two days followed by three days in beautiful Barcelona where we will complete the Spanish part of our cruise and sail on to France.