ROQUETA JULY 2025
EDITORIAL ROQUETA MAGAZINE 373 - JULY 2025 Summer Vibes Welcome to the July edition of Roqueta! With the arrival summer, the island comes alive with energy, and a sense of celebration that is uniquely ours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who returns year after year, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the local charm of Menorca. July in Menorca is synonymous with its iconic fiestas, where tradition and festivity blend seamlessly, with three different town fiestas to choose from. Vanessa, from Menorca Blue, talks us through the traditions and the timetables. Picture streets adorned with flags, the resounding rhythm of traditional music, and the majestic horses of the jaleo captivating crowds. These festivities are not merely events—they are a cherished part of Menorcan identity, inviting everyone to dance, cheer, and celebrate together. As the festivities unfold, don’t miss the opportunity to visit our restaurants and savour local delicacies like ensaimadas, sobrasada, and our refreshing gin-based pomada. Rachael visits Sal de Menorca to see the local salt production, and she also tells us how best to care for our precious black pigs. July marks the height of Menorca’s tourist season, and we continue to welcome visitors from across the globe. Beverley from the Isla del Rey relates the history of American visitors to the Port. We talk to Pere, the passionate Guide from Menorca Discovery, who can show you the secrets of Menorca and share his knowledge and love of the island. Families and friends can find endless activities, from boat tours to kayaking and cycling trails, or follow the lead of the “Camigos” on their walk around the Camí de Cavalls. And, of course, no summer visit is complete without experiencing Menorca’s legendary sunsets—find your spot at Cova d’en Xoroi or Punta Nati and watch as the sky transforms into a masterpiece of fiery hues. July is a time of connection, celebration, and shared joy. As you flip through the pages of Roqueta, we hope to inspire you to embrace the essence of Menorca—its traditions, its natural beauty, and its welcoming spirit. Whether you’re here for the fiestas, the beaches, the history, or simply to soak in the Mediterranean sun, we wish you an unforgettable summer. Here’s to a season of discovery, laughter, and memories that will linger long after the last wave laps the shore. Welcome to Menorca, welcome to July—welcome to Roqueta!
Liz & John
IN THIS ISSUE 04 10 13 16 18 21 30 32 34 36 38 41 42 44 49 52 57 64 65 66
ISLAND NEWS MID-SUMMER FIESTA SEASON CAMIGOS GO FULL CIRCLE MEET THE GUIDE - PERE A VISIT TO SAL DE MENORCA RESTAURANTS, WINES, AND RECIPES FREE THE PIGS! ISLA DEL REY - AMERICANS IN MAHÓN TORRENT RECOVERY GRAPEVINE - DAVID ANCONA CLASSIC CAR RESTORATION HISTORY OF MENORCA CRICKET CLUB SPORTS NEWS CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS NUTRITION AND FITNESS ART IN MENORCA WHAT’S ON JULY 2025 ISLAND INFORMATION ANCHORING – A SAILOR’S GUIDE AXOPAR BOAT CLUB
Cover Photo: Na Macaret
Publisher: John Davies Editor: Liz Parr Printer: LV Grupo Grafico y de Communication, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat Dep Legal ME: 187/1973 No. Registro: 1037/3.992
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RESTAURANTS If you would like to advertise your restaurant in the Eating Out section of Roqueta please contact John Davies by email: roquetajohn@gmail.com or by Whatsapp 609851186
ROQUETA JULY 2025
EATING Lorraine, has been the figurehead of Roqueta´s Eating out section and our team of tasters for many years. This summer she has been forced to take a sabbatical due to her increased workload at home. Thank you Lorraine for your valuable contributions, especially in the last months when time has been so precious. We hope to welcome you back in the future when the pressure eases and you can get out to dine far and wide again. This month, we are delighted to welcome Lucy Gemmell, the renowned food and event consultant, to the team, along with other knowledgeable tasters, Swade, from Cook by Swade who has also provided some of her own delicious recipes, Katy from Menorca Babycare and Brycelaine from Go Menorca.
OUT JULY 2025 CANTINA Isla del Rey, Mahon Harbour https://menorca.hauserwirth.com Whatsapp: +34 871 18 38 45
We are very pleased to publish reviews from readers, especially if you have a favourite restaurant or have discovered a hidden gem. Los Bucaneros is scheduled to open on 15 July and we will be reporting back on this longawaited event. We sometimes visit restaurants that leave us disappointed. Rather than writing a poor review we choose to wait, as every business faces challenges, or has a bad day. We wish all the new ventures for 2025 the very best.
If you are taking a trip over to the Isla del Rey, there is so much to see it is worth taking a break for a snack or relaxing lunch at the Hauser & Wirth restaurant, Cantina. At each of Hauser & Wirth’s art centres their restaurants are conceived as social gathering spaces and to ensure the Cantina meets their high expectations it is now operated by Artfarm, Iwan and Manuela Wirth’s independent hospitality company. Having restored and expanded their family farm in Somerset in SouthWest England, and being experts in fine art through their gallery, they saw the similarities between artists and farmers, and so they founded Artfarm. The tables at Cantina restaurant and bar are all outdoors, situated amid an olive grove with views of across the harbour. There is a focus on local produce and traditional Menorcan dishes.The menu includes bar snacks and tapas alongside sharing plates of fish, rice dishes and grilled meats and so there should be something for all tastes and budgets. From coca flatbread with fresh cheese, tomato and pine nuts 14€ or special croquettes of the day (5x) for 13€ to Menorcan spiny lobster ‘frit’ with free range eggs and fried potatoes for 160€!. If you choose the Fried Menorcan baby red prawns with mayonnaise and lemon 19€, 1€ is donated to Menorca Preservation from every sale. If you reserve a table for dinner, make sure you book the Yellow Catamaran or Water Taxi at the same time. Otherwise, unless you have a friend with a boat, you may miss your reservation.
EL BAR DE TAMARINDOS Es Grau Beach tamarindosmenorca.com Tel: 0034 682 625 775 By Lucy Gemmell
Check the Hauser & Wirth website for full details and for special events such as concerts and films.
Having always been a big fan of Es Grau - with its incredible view and one of the nicest beaches on the island – it´s perfect for small children with shallow water that is clear and inviting.
From 23 June – 6 September Cantina is open every day from 11am to 11.30pm Reservations are taken from 12pm to 3.15pm and 6.30pm to 10pm.
The original Tamarindos restaurant here was iconic and when the Binifadet company, Bonita Menorca, took it over in 2022 we were excited by the incredible setting and a fabulous crowd-pleasing menu - a bit more modern than the original and an education on the Binifadet wine journey! It remains one of my favourites. Last year, they took over the little bar adjacent to the restaurant - this space is a relaxed beach cafe and very sympathetic to the footfall - it is walk-in or take-away with simple tables and a sandy floor. The menu is simple and predominantly covers easy beach food which is absolutely delicious. There are some healthy options plus fun presentations of burgers, hot dogs and toasties! The Salmorejo (classic cold tomato soup with ham shavings and egg) is off the planet - and the hand made guacamole is wonderfully fresh and yummy. There is something for everyone on a beach day when you want a quick inexpensive lunch! Oh yes, and possibly the best carrot cake I have ever eaten!! Open Daily 12pm to 7pm 21
ROQUETA JULY 2025
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ROQUETA JULY 2025
MENORCA CRICKET CLUB (MCC) HOW IT ALL BEGAN By Peter Martin The early 1970’s marked a new chapter for David Nuttall and his parents, who decided to leave England’s chill for the sun-kissed island of Menorca. David´s father was a cricket enthusiast and envisaged a cricket club thriving in the island’s perfect climate. He wasn’t alone. Friends, Tony Liddle and Jeff Smith, shared his passion. Together, they scoured the island for a suitable field but their plans were temporarily dashed due to the challenges posed by the Franco regime and the reluctance of local farmers to sell their land. Years passed and the idea of cricket in Menorca seemed like a distant memory. However, 1984 brought a new opportunity when an employee from the S’Algar Hotels approached David about introducing cricket to hotel guests. This spark reignited the flame of passion for the sport and plans were set in motion. Mike Thomas was dispatched to England to purchase equipment, returning with a small mat, stumps and balls. The makeshift setup didn’t deter the local enthusiasts and soon local men gathered every Thursday morning on the football pitch next to the Sant Lluís Hotel to play and to practise cricket. They were John Seymour, Mike Morris, Alan Lodge, Mike Thomas, Roy Cumberlidge, David Walker, Steve Thompson, Jack Styring, Geoff Hallett and David Nuttall. The club’s early days were marked by creativity and adaptability. Batsmen wore a single pad and the following strict rules governed the game. Hit the far wall - 4 runs, hit the side wall - 2 runs, hit a 6 you’re out! Despite these quirks, cricket flourished in Menorca.
THE PIONEERS David, as club captain and chairman, was indeed fortunate to have a strong support system in the early days of the Menorca Cricket Club. Each of his friends and wingmen brought unique skills and qualities which contributed to the club’s growth and success.
The ‘No Priceless Trophy ‘ with John Ellison, Dave Nuttal, John Seymour, a cheeky Denise Manners - who was the scorer - and Beau.
John Seymour, with his wise counsel and role as club treasurer, provided stability and guidance. His experience and level-headedness helped navigate the club through its formative years, ensuring sound financial management and prudent decision-making. ‘Sleepy’ John Lowe, despite his nickname, was always alert and focused on the cricket field. His expertise in the game was invaluable and he shared knowledge generously with fellow players during practices and matches. His passion for cricket was contagious and his contributions helped shape the club’s playing style and culture. Geoff Goulding, an entrepreneur with a flair for making things happen, was the club’s dynamo. His wonderfully vocal nature and infectious enthusiasm inspired others to get involved and support the club’s initiatives. Whether it was organising events, securing sponsorships or promoting the club, Geoff’s energy and creativity were instrumental in driving the Menorca CC forward. Jack Styring and Geoff Hallett, as members of the ground committee, worked tirelessly to develop and maintain the club’s facilities. Their efforts ensured that the grounds were well maintained, safe and welcoming for players and spectators alike. Their dedication to the club’s infrastructure helped to create a sense of pride and ownership amongst members. Together, these individuals formed a formidable team which supported David and the Menorca Cricket Club in its early years. Their collective efforts helped lay the foundation for the club’s success and paved the way for its growth and development over time. Their contributions likely had a lasting impact on the club’s culture, values and traditions. The Menorca CC’s ability to foster a sense of community, camaraderie and sportsmanship amongst its members can be attributed, in part, to the efforts of these dedicated individuals. 41
THE ARRIVAL OF VISITING TEAMS The club attracted visitors from the UK, eager to experience the island’s unique blend of cricket and Mediterranean charm. One notable visit was from The Somerset Nomads in 1987, a team which generated a buzz in the English press. The Daily Telegraph, Daily Express, Daily Mail and other publications covered its upcoming matches against Menorca Cricket Club. The anticipation was palpable as the teams took to the Villacarlos football pitch, thanks to the kindness of Villacarlos town hall (now Es Castell) Both teams enjoyed a win, showcasing the competitive spirit which would define the club. The matches against the Nomads were the highlight of the season and the Menorca CC’s performance earned them recognition in the region. The same year, 1987, ended on a high note for Menorca CC as it became the first Balearic champion. They won the decisive match against Ibiza, with David Sheffield hitting a winning six. The achievement marked a significant milestone in the club’s history and cemented its reputation in the region. This match was played at Estadi Municipal de Mahón. The following year brought another exciting visit. This time from the Compasses Pub Cricket Club of Tunbridge Wells, captained by Simon Cornford (affectionately known as ‘Twiggy’). The matches were closely contested with Menorca winning the first game thanks to impressive centuries from Nick Walker 129 (7 sixes) and Andrew Manners 101 (5 sixes). Tunbridge Wells fought back in the second match, ultimately scoring a notable win. The visit was a resounding success with both teams enjoying friendly rivalry and camaraderie. The social activities surrounding the matches added to the festive atmosphere. Golf, darts and go-carting were just a few of the pastimes, together with many visits to local watering holes! The Compasses Pub Cricket Club booked its return the following year, a testament to the strong bond formed during its visit.