Es Canto

About Es Canto

Es Canto is an unrated hotel on Avinguda de Cala Blanca, set away from the main resort strips of Menorca. It suits travellers who want a quiet base for exploring the island's south-west corner, with the old town of Ciutadella close enough for evening visits. The property is practical rather than luxurious, with self-catering facilities and an outdoor pool.

The hotel is not beachfront, but the coast around Cala Blanca is within easy reach. Its facilities list includes a kitchen or kitchenette, a terrace, a garden and a solarium, which points to a relaxed, independent style of stay. This is a good choice for couples or families who prefer to cook and plan their own days rather than rely on hotel restaurants.

Location: Ciutadella de Menorca

Es Canto sits on Avinguda de Cala Blanca, outside the main resort areas, in a residential part of Menorca's south-west coast. Cala Blanca itself is a small settlement with a cove and a few services, though the hotel's exact position relative to the water is not given. Ciutadella, the island's old capital, is 3.1 km away in a straight line, so the hotel is well placed for visiting its cathedral, palaces and harbour.

The area is quieter than the busier southern coves such as Cala Galdana, which is 11.5 km away. In high summer, the south coast draws many visitors, but this part of the coast feels more subdued. In the shoulder months of May and September, the pace is slower, and many seasonal businesses begin to close from November. A car is the most practical way to reach the hotel and explore, though taxis serve the area from Ciutadella.

Rooms and facilities

The hotel lists family rooms, sofa beds and cots, so it can accommodate both couples and families. Each unit appears to have a kitchen or kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, oven and toaster, along with a washing machine and iron. Balconies or terraces are listed, as are fans, a safe and a TV with DVD. The facilities are described in the hotel's listing, so guests should confirm the exact layout when booking.

Internet access is listed, but the type and coverage are not specified, so check with the property if you need a reliable connection. Pets are allowed, which is useful for travellers with dogs. Non-smoking rooms are available, and the property is described as wheelchair accessible, though the extent of accessibility should be confirmed directly. Late arrivals should arrange check-in times with the hotel in advance.

Getting there

Menorca Airport (MAH) is 35.2 km away in a straight line from Es Canto. A taxi from the airport is the most direct option, taking roughly 40 minutes by road depending on traffic. Hire cars are available at the airport, and a car is recommended for reaching the hotel and exploring the island. Seasonal buses connect the airport to Maó and, in summer, to some resorts, but they do not serve Cala Blanca directly.

From Maó port, the distance is 38 km in a straight line, so ferry passengers arriving from Barcelona or Palma will need a taxi or hire car for the journey across the island. Ciutadella is the nearest town at 3.1 km, and taxis from there are a short ride away. In winter, flights and ferries are fewer, so check schedules with the operators. The hotel's opening dates should also be confirmed, as many properties close between November and April.

Beaches, sights and food nearby

Ciutadella old town is 3.1 km from Es Canto, ideal for an evening stroll around the cathedral, the narrow streets and the port. The Naveta des Tudons, a boat-shaped prehistoric tomb, is 5.7 km away, and Cala Turqueta, a white-sand cove on the south coast, is 8.1 km away. These are within easy driving distance, though car parks at Cala Turqueta fill early in summer.

Cala Galdana, 11.5 km away, is a larger bay with a sandy beach and pine-covered cliffs. Es Mercadal and Monte Toro, 22.3 km away, offer views of both coasts from the island's highest point. For food, Mahón-Menorca cheese has a protected designation, and the local speciality is caldereta de llagosta, a lobster stew, which is served in restaurants across the island. The hotel's self-catering facilities mean you can also shop in Ciutadella and cook.

A day from Es Canto

Start the morning with breakfast on the terrace at Es Canto, then drive to Cala Turqueta, 8.1 km away, arriving early to find a parking spot. Swim in the clear water and walk the pine-fringed beach before the crowds build. Alternatively, head to Ciutadella, 3.1 km away, and explore the old town's market and harbour at a relaxed pace.

In the afternoon, visit the Naveta des Tudons, 5.7 km from the hotel, and learn about the island's prehistoric past. Return to Ciutadella for a late lunch or coffee by the port, then drive back to Es Canto for a swim in the pool. In the evening, go back to Ciutadella for dinner, or stay in and cook using the kitchen. The short distances make this a flexible day without long drives.

Practical tips

Much of Menorca's tourism business closes roughly from November to April, so check Es Canto's opening dates before booking. July and August are the peak months, with the busiest beaches and highest demand for taxis and car hire. The Balearic sustainable tourism tax, known as the ecotasa, is charged per person per night by the accommodation; the rate varies by season and length of stay, and children under 16 are exempt. Check the current rate with the Govern de les Illes Balears.

Questions about Es Canto