The Camí de Cavalls is one of Menorca’s greatest treasures. It is a historic trail that circles the entire island, allowing you to discover its coastline, rural interior, and some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Mediterranean.
Walking the Camí de Cavalls is not just a sporting or tourist activity—it’s an authentic way to experience Menorca at a slower pace, connecting unspoiled coves, cliffs, farmland, and small coastal villages.
What is the Camí de Cavalls?
The Camí de Cavalls is a circular trail of approximately 185 km that completely surrounds the island of Menorca. Its origins date back to medieval times, when it was used as a coastal surveillance and defense route.
After years of abandonment, the trail was restored and signposted, and today it is one of the most iconic routes in the Balearic Islands.
How to do the Camí de Cavalls
The Camí de Cavalls can be enjoyed in different ways, depending on your travel style.
On foot
Perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
- Well-signposted stages
- Sections with varied difficulty
- Lets you enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace
By bike
Very popular among mountain bikers.
- Faster progress
- Some technical sections
- Great for multi-stage routes
On horseback
The most traditional and symbolic way.
- An experience closely linked to Menorcan culture
- Guided routes available
- Ideal for specific sections
Stages of the Camí de Cavalls
The official route is divided into 20 stages, with distances ranging from about 6 to 13 km. Each stage connects points of interest, beaches, and natural areas.
Some of the best-known stages include:
- Ciutadella – Cala Morell
- Es Grau – Faro de Punta Nati
- Cala Mitjana – Cala Trebalúger
- Fornells – Cala Tirant
Each section has its own character, alternating between the wilder north coast and the more accessible south coast.
Landscapes and environments along the way
The Camí de Cavalls offers a wide variety of landscapes:
- Rugged cliffs on the north coast
- White-sand coves in the south
- Farmland and dry-stone walls
- Wetlands and protected areas
- Natural viewpoints over the Mediterranean
This variety makes each stage a different experience.
Beaches and coves accessible from the Camí de Cavalls
One of the biggest advantages of the Camí de Cavalls is that it lets you reach many coves without needing a car:
- Cala Turqueta
- Cala Mitjana and Mitjaneta
- Cala Trebalúger
- Cala Pilar
- Cala Pregonda
- Cala Cavalleria
Many of these coves are perfect for combining a walk with a swim.
Practical tips for the Camí de Cavalls
- Plan stages according to your fitness level
- Always carry water, especially in summer
- Wear proper hiking footwear
- Avoid the hottest hours during warm months
- Respect the natural environment and the trail signage
When is the best time to do the Camí de Cavalls?
- Spring: the best season—mild weather and greener landscapes
- Autumn: ideal for hiking and cycling
- Summer: recommended only early in the morning or at sunset
- Winter: quieter, but some sections may be muddy
Camí de Cavalls and sustainable tourism
The Camí de Cavalls is an example of responsible tourism. Its restoration has helped preserve the natural environment, encourage sustainable activities, and spread tourism across the island.
Respecting the trail, staying on marked paths, and taking care of the surroundings are key to keeping it in good condition.
Recommended route for a first experience
Half day:
- Section Cala Morell – Punta Nati
Full day:
- Section Es Grau – Cala Tirant
Several days:
- Do the route in stages combining north and south
Conclusion
The Camí de Cavalls is much more than a trail: it’s a way to understand Menorca through its landscapes, its history, and its unhurried rhythm. Whether walking, cycling, or riding on horseback, it lets you discover an authentic island, far from rush and mass tourism.
Including the Camí de Cavalls in your trip is one of the best decisions if you want to experience Menorca in depth.