Binibeca Mar II

About Binibeca Mar II

Binibeca Mar II is a one-star hotel in the southern part of Menorca, in the whitewashed hamlet of Binibeca Vell. It suits travellers who want a simple, no-frills base near the sea without the formality of a larger resort. The guest score of 2.6 out of 5 from 37 reviews suggests a modest level of comfort, so expectations should be set accordingly. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, a pool bar and a garden, which are useful for families and couples alike.

This is a low-key stay, not a luxury retreat. The hotel's facilities are basic: family rooms, free WiFi, a terrace and non-smoking rooms. The location, however, is a strong point. Binibeca Vell is a short distance away, and the airport is close. For those who plan to spend most of the day exploring the coast, this hotel provides a practical place to sleep and cool off in the pool.

Location: Binibeca Vell

Binibeca Mar II sits in Binibeca, a hamlet of whitewashed buildings and narrow lanes by the sea. Binibeca Vell, the fishing-village-style area, is 0.8 km away in a straight line. This part of Menorca's south coast is known for its limestone coves and clear water. The hotel is not on the beach, but the sea is close enough for a short walk or drive. Sant Lluís, a white village with windmills, is 3.7 km away, and Es Castell, a Georgian town at the harbour mouth, is 7.7 km away.

In high summer, the area is busy with day-trippers heading to the southern coves. Car parks fill early, so arriving early is wise. In the shoulder months of May, June, September and October, the pace is slower, and many seasonal businesses start to close from November. The hotel is well placed for exploring the south coast, but a car or taxi is needed for most sights beyond Binibeca Vell.

Rooms and facilities

The hotel lists family rooms, free WiFi, non-smoking rooms and an outdoor pool. Rooms are likely simple, given the one-star rating and the guest score. Families may find the family rooms adequate for a short stay. The pool bar and terrace provide outdoor space, and the garden offers a quiet corner. There is no mention of air conditioning, so confirm cooling arrangements with the property before booking in hot months.

Late arrivals should check with the hotel about check-in times, as these are not stated. The free WiFi is listed, but its reliability is not guaranteed. For a budget stay, the facilities cover the basics. It is worth asking about room size, bed configuration and whether the pool is heated, as none of these details are given.

Getting there

Menorca Airport (MAH) is 4.7 km away in a straight line from Binibeca Mar II. A taxi from the airport is the most direct option, taking about 10 minutes by road. Buses run to Maó and, in summer, to some resorts, but routes to Binibeca may be limited. A hire car gives the most flexibility, especially for reaching the southern coves. The airport is small, so pick-up and drop-off are straightforward.

Maó port is 7.9 km away, where ferries from Barcelona and Palma arrive. From the port, a taxi or hire car is the practical choice. In winter, flights and ferries are fewer, and seasonal bus lines may not run. Check the island bus operator for current schedules. The hotel's distance from the airport makes it convenient for a late arrival or an early departure.

Beaches, sights and food nearby

Binibeca Vell, 0.8 km away, is the main attraction: a maze of whitewashed lanes and steps by the sea, built in the style of a traditional fishing village. It is a pleasant place for a stroll, with views over the water. Sant Lluís, 3.7 km away, offers a glimpse of local life with its windmills and white houses. Es Castell, 7.7 km away, has a Georgian character from the British period.

A boat trip round Maó harbour is 7.6 km away, and La Mola fortress is 8.9 km away. For prehistoric interest, a talayotic village is 14.2 km away. The south coast beaches, such as Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta, are within driving distance, though not listed with specific distances. Mahón-Menorca cheese is a local speciality, and the island's cuisine includes lobster stew from Fornells.

A day from Binibeca Mar II

Start the day with a swim in the hotel pool before the heat builds. Then walk or drive the 0.8 km to Binibeca Vell to explore the lanes and steps, and find a quiet spot by the sea. In the late morning, drive to Sant Lluís, 3.7 km away, to see the windmills and have a coffee. Return to the hotel for lunch and a rest.

In the afternoon, take a short drive to Es Castell, 7.7 km away, and walk along the harbour. Later, consider a boat trip round Maó harbour, 7.6 km away, to see the natural harbour from the water. In the evening, head back to Binibeca Vell for a walk at sunset. The distances are short, so the day is relaxed without long drives.

Practical tips

Much of Menorca's tourism business closes roughly from November to April, so check with Binibeca Mar II about its opening dates before planning a winter stay. July and August are the peak months, with more crowds and higher demand. The Balearic sustainable tourism tax, 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 Binibeca Mar II