Genestar

About Genestar

Genestar is a self-catering hotel near Cala Blanca on Menorca's south-west coast. It suits travellers who want a base with a kitchen and a pool, outside the main resort areas. The hotel is not rated and has no guest score listed. It offers free parking and free wifi, making it practical for those exploring the island by car.

This is a straightforward, no-frills stay for couples or small families who prefer to cook their own meals and plan their own days. The hotel is in a quiet residential area, away from the summer crowds of the southern coves. The outdoor pool provides a place to cool off after a day out.

Location: Ciutadella de Menorca

Genestar is on Passage De Les Mates 149 in Cala Blanca, a coastal settlement about 3.4 km straight line from Ciutadella. Ciutadella is Menorca's old capital, with a cathedral, palaces and a narrow port known for sunsets. The hotel is not beachfront; the nearest beaches are a short drive away. Cala Blanca itself has a small cove, but the hotel's location is more residential than touristy.

In high summer, July and August, the area is quieter than the southern coves like Cala Galdana or Cala Turqueta, but those beaches fill early. In the shoulder months of May, June and September, the pace is slower and parking is easier. A car is essential: the hotel has free parking. Ciutadella is walkable for the fit, but most guests drive the 3.4 km to the old town.

Rooms and facilities

Genestar's rooms are listed with air conditioning, a kitchen, a microwave, a dishwasher and a washing machine. This makes the hotel a good choice for self-catering stays. Free wifi and internet access are listed, along with a safe and a hairdryer. The rooms are non-smoking and have smoke detectors. There is no mention of a restaurant on site, so guests should plan to cook or eat out.

For families, the kitchen and washing machine are practical. For couples, the outdoor pool and free parking add convenience. Late arrivals should confirm check-in times directly with the property, as the hotel does not list reception hours. The facilities are basic but cover the essentials for an independent holiday.

Getting there

Menorca Airport (MAH) is 35.1 km straight line from Genestar. A taxi takes about 30-40 minutes by road. A hire car collected at the airport is the most flexible option, as the hotel offers free parking. Buses run from the airport to Maó and, in summer, to the resorts, but reaching Cala Blanca by bus requires a change in Ciutadella. In winter, fewer flights and buses run.

From Maó port (37.9 km straight line), a taxi or a hire car is the best option. Ciutadella is only 3.4 km away, so guests arriving by ferry at Ciutadella can take a short taxi ride. Ferries from Barcelona and Alcúdia on Mallorca dock at Ciutadella. Check ferry operators for current timetables, as sailings are fewer in winter.

Beaches, sights and food nearby

Ciutadella old town is 3.4 km straight line from Genestar. It is worth visiting at dusk for the port views. The Naveta des Tudons, a boat-shaped prehistoric tomb, is 5.8 km away. Cala Turqueta, a white-sand cove on the south coast, is 7.9 km straight line. Arrive early in summer or take the bus, as the car park fills. Cala Galdana is 11.3 km away, with a larger beach and facilities.

Menorca is known for Mahón-Menorca cheese, which has a protected designation of origin. The island's lobster stew, caldereta de llagosta, is a speciality from Fornells on the north coast. The Camí de Cavalls, a 185 km coastal trail, passes near the south coves. Genestar's location makes it easy to explore both coasts by car.

A day from Genestar

Start the morning at Genestar with breakfast in the kitchen. Drive 3.4 km to Ciutadella old town and explore the cathedral and port. Then head 7.9 km to Cala Turqueta for a swim; arrive before 10:00 to find parking. The cove has white sand and clear water, with pine trees for shade. Spend the morning there, then drive back to Genestar for lunch.

In the afternoon, drive 5.8 km to the Naveta des Tudons to see the prehistoric tomb. Later, return to Ciutadella for a walk along the port as the sun sets. The old town's narrow streets are quieter in the evening. Drive the 3.4 km back to Genestar for dinner cooked in the kitchen. The outdoor pool is a good place to end the day.

Practical tips

Much of Menorca's tourism business closes roughly from November to April. Check Genestar's opening dates before booking. July and August are the peak months, with higher demand and fuller beaches. The Balearic sustainable tourism tax (the ecotasa) is charged per person per night by the accommodation; the rate depends on the season and accommodation type, is reduced in low season and for longer stays, and children under 16 are exempt. Check the Govern de les Illes Balears site for current rates.

Questions about Genestar