ROQUETA
03
JULY 2024
WELCOME JULY 2024 - ROQUETA MAGAZINE This month we dare to talk about beaches. A simple topic you would think since our beautiful unspoilt virgin beaches have been used for generations as one of the main selling points of our island. But now we have to think twice about whether we should even mention them. In the world of social media, videos of our once cherished Macarella, Turqueta and Mitjana have raced around the world at lightning speed and now it seems that they have encouraged too many people to come to experience them all at the same time. To push home the problem a protest against “massification” was organised outside the Consell Insular in Malbuger and 1000 people turned up with beach balls and deck chairs to turn the Plaça de la Biosfera into a crowded ‘Cala’ de la Biosfera in order to make their point. One of the ideas of the protesters is to limit the number of cars on the island, but more importantly they are calling for some sort of clear plan of action for the future. Of course, this makes it even more important than ever before to market the island as an all-year-round destination, not just a place to come for 6 weeks of the year. We are pleased to see that Easy Jet is now offering flights to the island twice a week this winter, albeit only from Gatwick, but this is at least a start and an improvement on last winter. We now need to flood the social media with pictures of our own version of ‘cold’ water swimming, so popular now in the UK, but slightly less invigorating here in Menorca. We have had some unsettled weather in May and June, while we remember fondly the wonderful blue skies we experienced here over the winter months, perfect for walking and exploring the real beauty of the island without the heat and the crowds. However, we must always be mindful of what we wish for, never knowing what the environment or the media can throw at us, especially in the new era of climate uncertainty. We suffered spring storms that washed away the sand on our beaches, winds which turned our coves blue with jellyfish and even the sighting of a blue shark on the beach at Arenal de Castell. These stories quickly spread across Facebook and TicTok, leading to misinformation and alarm. On the other hand, the latest news stories of soaring temperatures and deaths from heat exhaustion worldwide bring a new and more positive perspective to our recent unsettled weather. Our island continues to keep giving despite the problems. We have our famous north winds to keep us cool, we are surrounded by water and despite the crowds we can choose from over 200 beaches and coves where we can go to cool down. Some of our favourite coves for swimming have only a tiny beach or no beach at all. In our Readers’ Corner, Jonny tells us about his love-hate relationship with sand and his favourite cove of Rafalet. Jess gives us ideas for where to take young children, many of which have no mention of sand. Anja, from Jardi de Ses Bruixes, decided to return to the island after experiencing a storm one February. If it is cloudy and cooler than expected then it is an opportunity walk a bit further or to explore wonderful museums, art galleries and historical buildings. Our Treasure Hunts are designed to encourage you to explore some of the towns, this month Es Mercadal, and our Eating Out section will give you many new ideas for discovering restaurants. In this tranquil and understated “Jewel of the Mediterranean”, beaches are by no means the be-all and end-all of what Menorca has to offer. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE ROQUETA BY POST? BUY A SUBSCRIPTION FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WHO LOVE MENORCA OR ORDER BACK COPIES 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 The Publisher reserves the right to edit any material submitted for publication.
All prices quoted were correct at the time of going to press No articles may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher For Editorial contact info@roquetamagazine.net For Advertising contact roquetajohn@gmail.com For Subscriptions contact roquetajohn@gmail.com
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
Liz & John
IN THIS ISSUE ISLAND NEWS 04 July Fiestas, Summer Paradise, SASGA Yachts, The Big Interview - Hugh Grundy and the Geckos, Isla Del Rey & Boutique Hotels EATING OUT & WINE
23
THE GREAT OUTDOORS A town with Ten names, Myrtle, Sea Slugs & Sperm Whales
33
ART IN MENORCA
39
WELLBEING
41
CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS
47
WHAT’S ON
54
READERS CORNER
61
Cover Photo: Kirstin Francis-Jones
ISLAND NEWS
04
JULY 2024
ISLAND NEWS
By Christine Brooker
ROYAL TITLE FOR BALEARICS The Royal Household has announced that The Academy for the Balearic Language, may use the title Royal; “Reyal” in this case.
BETTER SERVICE TO MADRID NEXT YEAR
SCOTTISH DANCE IN ES CASTELL On the 24th and 25th July Es Castell celebrates its local fiestas for patron saint, San Jaime (St. James). Unlike other fiestas on the island there is a local folk dance that some people say resembles a Highland Fling. This is supposed to originate from the time of British rule in Menorca (XVIII century) and a Scottish Regiment; certainly the girls wear a type of tartan and leap in the air! An article suggests that the dance is older and comes from Mallorca, dating from between the XIII and XVIII centuries. The Menorcan one is called Bail de Cossil (from Scotland or Escocia in Spanish). The Mallorcan one is completely different; the men do wear a type of skirt rather than a pleated kilt and dance around a young maiden they are protecting from the devil. I think the Es Castell (Georgetown) version is more convincing - that the dance probably originates from Highland troops and their families based here at the time.
Companies operating the OSP (Public Service Obligation) routes to Menorca have come to an agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Transport whereby from 1st November 2024 to 30th April 2025 some of the off-season flight problems to the island will hopefully be alleviated. They will introduce a third direct flight to Madrid on Mondays and there will be two on other days. Passengers have been asking for this service for some time. The companies involved are Iberia, Air Nostrum and Iberia Express; this April they used planes with 180 seats as opposed to 100 as previously there had been a shortage of seats during the winter months, particularly in November. They have announced that the seats this year will be available earlier.
LOW-COST AIRLINES - FINE FROM SPANISH GOVERNMENT The Spanish Government has imposed a fine of 150 million euros on the low-cost airlines, Vueling, Ryanair, Volotea and Easyjet, for abusive practices such as charging for cabin baggage when the law states that essential hand luggage must be included in the price of the ticket. The airlines involved completely reject the idea and say this will increase fares for passengers who have hand luggage that fits under their seat. The proceedings started in the summer of 2023 and have been welcomed by associations such as AVIBA, the Balearic Travel Agents; although sources from the sector say that the fine is a drop in the ocean compared to the profits the airlines make for charging. ALA, the association of airlines, is appealing to the European Union over the fine. Also considered abusive is the practice of charging extra for people when they need to sit together, for example assigning separate seats to families with small children and then imposing an additional fee to be seated together. D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
05
JULY 2024
PLANE FOR SALE
THE SENATE REJECTS VIRTUAL CONTROL AT THE AIRPORT The argument about the virtual control tower in Menorca continues. The senate voted to insist that the government abandons the idea that has caused much alarm in Menorca, and immediately build a new conventional control tower at the airport. The plan had also been in place for El Hierro (Canary Islands) and the PP voted with their local party to reject the plan, in exchange for El Hierro supporting Menorca´s plan to reject too. The new tower should have been in place in 2021 but nothing has been heard. Every single political party in Menorca, backed by pilots, air traffic controllers and trade unions, are against the plan. The Menorcan senator, Cristobal Marqués, said that Menorca was not the best place to install the system. Whilst agreeing that it works in remote mountains in the north of Scandinavia with about 15,000 registered passengers annually, Menorca receives about four million. The Minister for Transport, Oscar Puente, tried hard to convince the senate, ignoring the air traffic controllers who say the trials were very worrying and showed limited vision.
AENA, the airport management, are to auction a light aircraft that has been located at Menorca Airport for 15 years. It is a bi-motor Beechcraft 95-B55 MSN TC-2191 with an American registration number. It has been declared “presumably legally abandoned”. The first auction stated a reserve price of 2,500 euros; the plane was not sold and there is now a second round with a reserve price of 1,250 euros. If no one bids this time, there will be a third auction with no price stipulated. The story behind the plane is that on 3rd July 2009 the American gentleman decided to leave the Aeroclub in Menorca, where he was a member, and fly with his wife to Son Bonet in Mallorca. On taking off, the warning light in the cockpit indicated that there was a problem with the undercarriage. He flew to the main airport and it was confirmed that the left wheel strut was not extended properly; he tried to solve the problem manually with no success. He proceeded to fly over the Aeroclub for 15 hours to use up the fuel and then declared an emergency. The landing was not easy - the left propeller touched the ground and the plane turned violently - fortunately no one was injured. The owner, with 700 hours of flying experience, died some years later. By 2014 the plane had accumulated a debt of 62,700 euros for its time on the ground at the airport.
POPULATION INCREASE The National Institute for Statistics (INE) has released figures that show that the Balearic Islands have gained 44 people a day in the last 20 years. Numbers decreased during Covid but in analysing just the last year, the Balearics have increased by 54 people daily. The sociologist, architect and professor in socio-community, Carles F. Baeza, says that from his point of view this is unsustainable as growth and sustainability must go handin-hand, and this is not happening. The proof, he says, is that the lives of residents and visitors have not improved. He says Mallorca has adopted an economic system that replicates Ibiza. Another expert Pere Salvà, emeritus professor of human geography at the Balearic University, says massification might make tour operators search for less exploited areas; however, because of the situation of the islands and the relatively short flights, he thinks that this is unlikely. AMPHIBIOUS PLANE FOR MENORCA IBANAT has designated one of their two amphibious planes in the Balearic Islands for use in Menorca this summer to assist with the control of wild fires. The plane will still be based in Son Bonet in Mallorca as it doesn´t need to land. Controlled fires (such as burning rubbish) are prohibited between 15th May and 15th October. This summer Menorca has 35 firemen (including 11 extra for the summer season), 4 technicians and 7 environmental agents. A helicopter which remains permanently on the island arrived on 1st May and is aided by the cameras on Monte Toro and S´Enclusa in Ferreries. Some preventative work was undertaken last winter to include the cleaning of the stream at Santa Catalina in Mahón and lots of scrub was cleared and burnt, with a similar undertaking at the Castillo de Menorca, the shop on the road to Ciutadella. Firewalls have also been cleared. As was the case last year, there is 1.5 million euros available from European funds, destined for owners to assist in clearing forest areas. A large water tank that takes 50 tonnes of water has been installed to the south of Sant Climent, and the one near the car park in Macarella has been moved to ensure easier access for the fire services.
SCHOOLS TO OPEN DURING SUMMER HOLIDAYS A new law of “Conciliation” has been passed that means that state schools must open in the summer, so that families have somewhere to send their children while they work, especially important in a community where many people work in tourism in the summer months. As we go to press no information has been given about this happening. Another measure is greater flexibility of working hours which needs agreement between employers and unions.
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
06
JULY 2024
GRAFITTI ANALYSED
ESTRELLA DAMM BEER CHOOSE MENORCA AGAIN A popular publicity campaign every summer is the Estrella Damm beer advert. For the fourth time Menorca is featured. This year the advert is entitled “Estiu (Summer) 78” to relive the seventies and will include the song “Yes Sir, I can Boogie” sung by Baccara. A team of 60 people came to film in Menorca at the beginning of May.
SPLASH The ayuntamiento in Sant Lluis has ordered the closure of SPLASH, the water park at Biniancolla. So far this has not happened as the owners say the order is illegal and there are still unresolved court cases. Permission to build the water park was originally granted and then changed after it was open. We should be able to report more fully next month.
In 1958 the basilica at Cap des Port, at the back of the bay of Fornells, was discovered. However, it wasn´t excavated until 1975 by Sr. Pere de Palol who was an eminent authority on paleochristian archaeology. Excavations continued until 1985, and the chronology was established between the V century and the beginning of the VII century. The fragments discovered were stored in the Menorcan museum and in 2018 the classicist in philology, Dr. Bartholmeu Obrador, began to investigate them, even though the fragments were small and difficult to analyse. Most of the graffiti is in Greek and some in Latin and many are prayers possibly to St. Steven. This came as no surprise as behind the altar there was a chamber that supposedly contained a relic from the Saint. Most of the prayers ask for divine intervention, but what surprised the analyst was that some of the writing showed a good degree of literacy and a habit of writing; they refer to Anatòlia, nowadays Turkey and Egypt, and the people could have been connected to the Byzantines.
ISLAND NEWS
07
JULY 2024
PARKING PROBLEMS
NEW INFORMATION AND MAPS FOR FERRERIES The town hall at Ferreries has published new information leaflets, incorporating plans for the town and its surrounding beaches, including Cala Mitjana and Ets Alocs. The kiosk at Cala Galdana has been renovated and it will be staffed to assist tourists. The objective is to offer visitors quality information about the heritage, culture, industries, economy, markets and fiestas in the municipality.
At 9.00am on 12th June, residents and tourists in Cala en Porter were surprised by 4 lorries that distributed 40 tonnes of rocks along a 128-metre stretch of land, taking away about 430 parking spaces. The decision was taken by the owner José de Joan Lopez, a lawyer from Ciutadella, his argument being that the barren zone has a fragile ecosystem (it is near the stream that runs from the gorge at the back of the beach) and is not adequate for parking. He did add that ,once things are properly organised, he would rent spaces to local businesses and the hotel. Cars, tow trucks, boats - and camper vans in more recent times - have used the space for some 50 years without any formal agreement. During the morning the coastal authorities arrived, no permission had been asked for and the local police from Alaior filmed the proceedings. The ayuntamiento in Alaior acted with remarkable speed and 30 hours later had removed some of the rocks and reopened the parking spaces. Previously they had informed the coastal authorities, the Consell, Seprona (Protection of Nature Service); their insistence plus protests from businesses by the beach led to the authorities granting them permission. Reactions were mixed from business owners with some having sympathy with the owner as parking has never been organised; others don´t understand why he acted now and the kayak company was particularly affected by the closure. One added that the ayuntamiento is very quick to grant concessions for sun beds and sunshades, but not good at reinvesting the money on the beach, citing the lack of informative signs. The next day, the owners of the car park in Son Bou also protested. Edivisa, who own the urbanisation, have said that their land was compulsorily purchased because coastal laws prevent buildings near the beach. Sometimes over 1000 cars a day visit Son Bou to enjoy the beach, and there are only 200 regulated parking spaces. In exchange for the use of the land the law says that they could exploit the parking spaces for 75 years - they are still waiting.
NOISY FERRY Neighbours in Mahón were correct: the noise from the “Ciudad de Granada” ferry when the engines are running for hours while the ship is in the port exceed the legal limit at night. Port Authorities ordered a report from Eurofins Cavendish SLU on the survey that was carried out on 21st April. The ferry operated by the Grismaldi Trasmed company normally makes a stopover in the Port of Mahón over the weekends, spending 37 hours moored in the Cós Nou docks. Following the report, the ferry was moored at the mouth of the port over one weekend but Grimaldi says that this can never be a permanent solution. On the day tests were undertaken, the “Ciudad de Palma” was also in the port and so Grimaldi is doing its own tests and, depending on the results, they will take appropriate action. Neighbourhood Associations of those affected are treating this first victory “with a great deal of caution”. They have not seen the report, nor have they been able to meet with the Port Authorities, the Ayuntamiento in Mahón or the Consell. They ask why the ferries can´t use generators or ‘cold ironing’ when they are berthed in the port as the NATO ships did, allowing them to be electrically connected to shore during their stay. In the port of Maó, an investment of around ten million euros is planned for electrification projects at the berths of the Cós Nou dock and for the Cruise dock. However, this solution is not expected to begin execution until 2025.
The day after, even more information about other beaches emerged. The two large car parks at Santo Tomàs and Binigaus belong to the owners of the Es Bruc beach bar who negotiate with the ayuntamiento in Es Migjorn. Binimel-Là (with access to Cala Pregonda) is controlled by the coastal authorities; Son Saura is owned by the golf club at Son Parc. Cala Viola, near Cavalleria is in a protected area and could have a space for ten cars and bicycles. At Cala Mitjana, the car park is rented to the authorities until 2025. Macarella is only accessible by bus. In La Vall and Son Saura all the parking is owned by the Consell and at Es Grau by the municipality in Mahón. Cala Galdana always has problems, especially as people use parking spaces and walk to nearby beaches. The ayuntamiento in Ferreries is asking for a more frequent bus service and this would certainly help local workers who could leave their cars at home.
Cold ironing, or shore-to-ship power (SSP) permits emergency equipment, refrigeration, cooling, heating, lighting etc to receive continuous electrical power while the ship loads or unloads its cargo. It is a term that first came into use when all ships had coal-fired engines. When a ship tied up at port there was no need to continue to feed the fire and the iron engines would literally cool down, eventually going completely cold, hence the term cold ironing. The latest news at the time of writing this article is that for the past two Saturdays the “Ciudad de Granada” has berthed in the port again... ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
08
JULY 2024
PARKING PERMITS IN ES CASTELL TO BE CONTINUED
LOS BUCANEROS
Still on parking! The residents in the municipality of Es Castell can use their parking permits, which will not have to be renewed. The permits will apply from 1st June to 30th September. The ayuntamiento has listened to all the complaints from residents’ associations as they had stated that they were going to remove the restrictions. Some residents could not park outside their homes or even in town at night because of the extra cars; so now once again, at certain times, only residents may park.
There is still no news regarding the reopening of the much-loved “Los Bucaneros” on Binibeca Beach. Sant Lluis City Council is responsible for the building and facilities and many companies are eager to take over the concession. In the meantime, the Moysi family is waiting to hear from the court in Madrid. They want to gain access to the legal documents to discover the exact reasons why they were not allowed to renew their concession after the change in the law by Costas. Currently there is no maintenance being carried out and Juan Carlos Moysi is very worried that it is not being painted and fixed especially as it is included in the catalogue of protected architectural assets of Sant Lluis. He believes the city council should be carrying out this work. The Moysi family no longer have keys to the facilities since they were claimed by the Sant Lluis City Council and the Office of Costas Menorca in 2023. Despite the cracks and graffiti, Trish (a Scottish fairy godmother), patiently takes care of Los Bucaneros in a voluntary role of cleaning and watering the plants, to make the place feel loved because she trusts that one day everything will return to how it was and to shine.
RENTING STILL A PROBLEM As we have mentioned before there is still a problem for seasonal workers and residents to find somewhere affordable to rent. The tendency is still to blame illegal renting as the renting platforms take scant interest in the legality of their properties. The president of the Consell, Adolfo Vilafranca, says that we are in a better situation than Mallorca and Ibiza as we have 30 years of being a biosphere reserve. He does not approve of the Territorial Island Plan passed last year by PSOE (socialists) just before the PP (conservatives) were elected. He wants to limit holiday-lets in urbanisations (presumably not coastal ones), but to extend it to rustic properties built before 1960. On Saturday 8th June, over 1000 people demonstrated in the Biosphere Plaza in front of the Consell in Mahón; they renamed it Cala Biosfera, and turned up with sunbeds and unbrellas to show how full the beaches have become. GOB, the ecological association, organised buses from other towns including Ciutadella. The idea was to get the political parties to act and they do seem to be in agreement finally. The other problem is the lack of official training for bar staff along with the lack of accommodation. Hotels and restaurants have been asking for years for somewhere to train staff, but nothing has happened so far.
TIGER MOSQUITO BACK Some years ago the tiger mosquito was detected in the Mediterranean and about ten years ago in Menorca. It seems they are happily breeding in residential areas in plant pots; this has been demonstrated in Valencia where 1,444 potential and real breeding places were examined in 60 homes. FEWER BEACHES FOR NUDISTS Before the massification of tourists on the island, certain beaches were traditionally used by nude bathers. One of these was Macarelleta, now visited by many people in the summer. Whilst there have never been any officially designated nudist beaches in Menorca, FEN (the Spanish Federation for Naturists) lists 22 beaches where it is “traditional”; amongst them are certain parts of Son Bou, Binigaus, Cala Mesquida and also Cales Coves that was always associated with the hippies. A couple mentioned are rather doubtful, Punta Prima and Cala en Porter. Ismael Rodrigo from the association says the Balearic Islands are popular because there can be a mix of naturists and those who sport beachwear. However, many nudists search for more remote places. He mentions that when Franco was alive nudism was strictly forbidden and people had to resort to places that were sometimes dangerous to reach. D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
09
JULY 2024
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR JULY So the good news is that you are likely to be able to catch a local celebration in July as this month they are spread out in different parts of the island. Here are the events in date order, check out the Event Guide at the back of the magazine for more details, or visit my website menorcablue. com where you will find an article on each celebration with a more complete schedule on the traditions and timings of each fiesta. Times are orientative so you know approximately between what times activities take place. Ports de Maó, Fornells i Ciutadella: Festes de la Verge de Carme - 13 & 14th July 2024 Feast of the Virgen Carmen, Patron Saint of the Sea. Procession of Boats in the evening. Port of Mahon: 13th July 19:00 – 21:00. Es Mercadal: Sant Martí - 20th & 21 July 2024 Feast of Saint Martin, Patron of Es Mercadal. Annually on the third weekend in July. Saturday 20th - Primer Toc 5.00pm & Jaleo 7.00pm Sunday 21st - Primer Toc 9.00am & Jaleo 11.00am
JULY FIESTAS
Es Castell: Sant Jaume – 24th, 25 & 26th July 2024 Feast of Saint James, Patron of Es Castell. Wednesday 24th - Primer Toc 10.00am & Jaleo 8.00pm Thursday 25th- Primer Toc 7.45am & Jaleo 1.00pm (approx. after Mass) Fornells: Sant Antoni – 27th & 28th July 2024 Feast of Saint Anthony, Patron of Fornells. Annually on the fourth weekend in July. Saturday 27th - Primer Toc 5.00pm & Jaleo 8.30pm Sunday 28th - Primer Toc 9.00am & Jaleo 12.00pm (approx. after Mass)
LOCAL FIESTA TIPS Same advice applies for all fiestas, here is a quick review:
LA FIESTA DEL VIRGEN DEL CARMEN’ 1. Check the dates and times of the events and the bus timetable to - Celebrating the Patron Saint of the Seas
In addition to the traditional local town fiestas with horses, July also sees the celebration of the Feast Day of the ‘Virgen del Carmen’, the patron of the sea and fishermen. The official Feast Day is on the 14th of July this year which is a Sunday but celebrations are also taking place on the Saturday 13th July. In the Ports of Ciutadella, Fornells and Mahón, there is a Maritime Procession of Boats to pay homage to the Patron Saint. The largest procession is in Mahon including boats from the Navy, Fishing Boats, Recreation Boats and Sporting Boats. This year the procession is being held on the evening of 13th July between 19:00 and 21:00. Quite the sight to take photos if you are there to see them sail out to the entrance of the port as the sun sets. The Banda de Música de Maó will also be playing in the Port of Mahon at 20:00 followed by a Menorquin group with guitars singing local and seafaring songs at 21:00. If you are there in the morning you can watch a demonstration of boats with Latina sails.
get there from where you are. Designated Drivers will have to leave the cars parked on the outskirts of the towns, or book a taxi. Bus company information at the back of the Roqueta. 2. Dress comfortably & travel light. No strollers, skirts or open shoes recommended. 3. Local Fiestas are spirited at times, especially with the horses and when the band is playing, so keep your distance. Watch where you walk and keep looking behind you when near the horses. 4. Private homes are invitation only yet the atmosphere of the street parties is authentic and fun. 5. Pace Yourself with the Gin & Lemon, which is called ‘Pomada’ everywhere else on othe island except Ciutadella where its ‘Gin amb Llimonada’. If you ask them for ‘Pomada’ in Ciutadella they will send you to the pharmacy as ‘Pomada’ also means ointment. (Don’t ask me why… something shifts in the air in the 16 km between Ciutadella and Ferreries. The accent changes as does the terminology. Menorcan logic, makes perfect sense to everyone here, so just go with it! Pomada it is til June next year, unless you visit Ciutadella before then!) ‘Bones Festes’ as the locals say which means Happy Fiesta! If you are enjoying yourself the way the locals do then you’ve successfully adapted to the local lifestyle! Written by Vanessa Jeny Founder of MenorcaBlue.com - Peek inside Paradise & Live the Local Lifestyle
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
10
JULY 2024
A SUMMER PARADISE: DISCOVER THE BEACHES ON THE SOUTHERN SIDE OF CIUTADELLA With over 200 coves and beaches on our small island, Menorca arguably has some of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean. Nestled on the western coast of the island, the Ciutadella township area encompasses almost a third of the island including the countryside and coastal areas that extend as far east in the north as Cala Pilar and as far east in the south as Macarella.
by Vanessa Jeny, Menorca Blue Sa Caleta
While the shape of the coast on the western side hosts narrow calm inlets with easy access ideal for a quick dip, the beaches on the north and south coasts are wider and in many cases wilder, as both the north and south coasts of Menorca are so different from each other. During the high season in July and August, these beaches are very popular, offering something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, adventure, or family fun, the beaches on the south side of Ciutadella promise an unforgettable summer experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you explore and make the most of your visit. Sa Caleta, Santandria and Cala Blanca: Coastal Trio Why Visit: These three calm, narrow sandy coves are conveniently located near each other and offer amenities and easy access. Cala Blanca has plenty of amenities, restaurants, beach bars and hotels for families within walking distance to the beach, Sa Caleta offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and is surrounded mainly by villas, and Santandria is known for its flat sandy beach and calm, shallow waters ideal for young children with some nice restaurants and beach bars right on the beach for day or night. Between the two coves, you will find one of the best coastal spots to watch the sunset and relaxed bars and restaurants to enjoy the view.
Son Saura
Top Tips: • Three for One: Explore all three beach areas together to enjoy a variety of settings and activities within a short distance. • Lunch Break: Take advantage of the numerous beachside restaurants and bars that are within walking distance from the beaches for lunch with a sea view • How to get there: If you need to park best to drop off close to the beach and park in surrounding streets a short walk away. Bus from central Ciutadella. Cala en Bosch: Vibrant and Convenient Why Visit: Located near a bustling resort area with a Marina, and a variety of accommodations including 5-star hotels and restaurants, Cala en Bosch offers a complete beachside experience with a wide range of facilities and activities. There is a water park and a turquoise blue area beach is perfect for those who prefer a mix of relaxation and entertainment. The marina offers all types of dining, boat excursions and nightlife.
Son Xoriguer
Top Tips: • Water Sports: Take advantage of the various water sports available, from jet skiing to paddleboarding. • Amenities: Enjoy the convenience of nearby restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s an excellent option for families and those seeking a full day of fun. • How to get there: Street parking and limited designated parking areas. Bus from central Ciutadella. Son Xoriguer: Windsurfing and More Why Visit: Son Xoriguer is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The beach is known for its consistent winds, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing and kite surfing. On the southern coast of the island, it’s a longer beach than the previously mentioned coves, surrounded by low-rise hotels and villas, it’s close enough to amenities with easy access whilst still retaining its relaxed vibe. D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
11
JULY 2024
Top Tips: • Lessons Available: If you’re new to windsurfing, several schools offer lessons and equipment rental. • Family-Friendly: Despite its popularity with surfers, Son Xoriguer is also familyfriendly, with calm waters closer to the shore. • How to get there: Limited street parking is available and a direct bus from the centre of Ciutadella every day throughout the day. Arenal de Son Saura: The Hidden Gem Why Visit: A bit off the beaten path, Playa Arenal de Son Saura offers a more tranquil experience. It’s a long stretch of sand with shallow, clear, very turquoise waters perfect for swimming, wading and floating for hours. Top Tips: • Natural Beauty: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline and take in the natural beauty of the southern coastline on the coastal walking track the ‘Cami de Cavalls’. You can pack a daypack and walk from Son Xoriguer in just over an hour. • Horseback Riding: Another way to enjoy the ‘Cami de Cavalls’ is on horseback. Consider booking a horseback riding tour to explore the beach and nearby trails, it’s a very Menorcan experience • How to get there: There is a designated parking area that fills up by midmorning in high season so arrive early if going by car. There is also a daily bus to and from Ciutadella. Or you can book day boat excursions from Ciutadella with a paella lunch included. Great for families.
Cala Macarelleta
Cala Turqueta
Cala Turqueta: The Quintessential Paradise Why Visit: Cala Turqueta is renowned for its turquoise waters and fine white sand, embodying the quintessential Menorcan beach experience. Surrounded by pine trees, this secluded cove offers a serene escape from the bustling town. It is very popular and is often the first beach and parking lot to reach capacity every day in July and August. If you are lucky to get to see it you will know why. Top Tips: • Arrive Early: During high season, Cala Turqueta can get crowded by midday. Arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot and enjoy the peaceful ambience. • Pack Essentials: There are no facilities on the beach, so bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. A beach umbrella can also provide much-needed shade. • How to get there: Park and walk along the Cami de Cavalls from either direction or a limited designated parking lot behind the beach. By private boat hire if you have a licence or hire an excursion.
Cala Macarella
Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta: Twin Jewels of the South Coast Why Visit: These neighbouring coves are famous for their dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Cala Macarella is larger and more accessible, while Cala Macarelleta, is a tiny inlet accessible by swimming or via the coastal hike that offers the quintessential and arguably most well-known view of the Menorcan coastline. There is a popular laid-back beach restaurant run by a local family that offers a good variety of combined plates for lunch or it’s best to pack a picnic for the day. Top Tips: • Scenic Hike: Enjoy a scenic 15-minute hike between the two beaches. The path offers breathtaking views and is well worth the effort. The view you most often see in publicity for Menorca or the Balearic Islands is this view on the trail between the bays, but you have to hike to get to see it. • Snorkelling: The bay is more the star than the beach. Bring snorkelling gear to explore the underwater world teeming with colourful fish and marine flora. • How to get there: Bus from central Ciutadella is the best way. Or Boat by private hire or excursion. It is often recommended to park in Cala Galdana and walk 45 minutes along the coast. But this is only for those who have parked by 8am as the parking in Cala Galdana is extremely limited in the high season and the heat of the day is too much to be walking any later. Final Tips for a Memorable Mediterranean Menorca Beach Day 1. Sun Protection: The Mediterranean sun can be intense, so bring plenty of sunscreens, wear a hat, and consider a beach umbrella for shade. 2. Hydration: Keep hydrated by bringing enough water, especially if you plan to stay out all day. 3. Respect Nature: Menorca is a Biosphere. Help preserve the natural beauty of Menorca’s beaches by taking your trash with you and respecting the local flora and fauna. 4. Public Transport: Consider using public transport or shuttle services to avoid parking hassles, especially during the peak season. You have been warned! 5. Relax: Whilst it can be tempting to spend your day taking photos, remember that memories are made in the moment, so don’t miss out on making the most of it! ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
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JULY 2024
SASGA YACHTS BOATS BUILT IN SANT LLUIS TRAVEL TO THE FAR SIDE OF THE WORLD If you call Menorca home, you may be familiar with the traditional Menorquin llauts of all sizes moored in the harbours or cruising around the island to anchor in the virgin calas. Since 2011 they have been joined by a new range of boats sporting the logo of Sasga Yachts. These have evolved from the DNA of the traditional llaut, but redesigned with modern lines and materials and utilising the latest technology. Sasga Yachts are designed and built in the industrial estate in Sant Lluis. They are highly regarded in the nautical sector and exported all over the world. They can be found in the harbours of Italy, France, Croatia, Slovenia, UK, the US and even New Zealand and Japan. Italy and Croatia are the biggest overseas buyers but four have found their way to Japan and seven to New Zealand. The French market has seen a recent upturn with a new dealer in Toulon selling so many boats he has started a Menorquin Club. To understand the pedigree of Sasga Yachts we need to go back to the 70’s and start from the very beginning. History of Sasga The first Menorquin yachts were produced by the Sastre family. In 1978, Juan Sastre Bernat founded Astilleros Menorca and produced small 5 metre yachts called Conquistadors. The idea was to build a safe and comfortable motorboat of classical lines and a timeless image, which was highly stable. It wasn’t until the late 1990’s that the Menorquin Yacht brand really took off with the second generation of larger yachts fitted out to the highest specifications. These elegant yachts with quality interiors and spacious decks proved highly popular in the buoyant economic climate of the time. Although abundant in Menorca, 90% of the yachts produced were sold outside Spain. In particular they were highly sought after by the Italians, which speaks volumes for their quality and style. Over 400 Menorquin yachts were sold in Italy alone, the yachts being ideal for long distance cruising around the Italian coast and Mediterranean islands. The original company was sold by the family in 2006. However, when the new owners went bankrupt due to the recession, Jose Luis Sastre, the son of the founder, decided to realise his dream of using the latest design and manufacturing technologies and materials to bring a modern interpretation to the much loved brand. Thus, in 2010, Sasga Yachts SL was created and in June 2011 the first yachts emerged from a new factory, with modern comforts and a greater fuel efficiency than those of the earlier generations. Firstly, and most importantly, the hull of the boat was completely redesigned. Jose Luis Sastre worked closely with Íñigo Toledo of naval architects Barracuda Yacht Design in Madrid in order to improve the navigation performance and reduce consumption. They used the latest computer design software to analyse over 24 different hull shapes until they were satisfied that they had found the best. The traditional hull was replaced by a sleek bottom and a much shorter keel to give the passenger a smoother ride through the short choppy Mediterranean seas. The engines were moved back, behind the rear bulkhead to reduce the noise level inside the cabin.
The stern was redesigned to incorporate a hydraulically operated lifting bathing platform, now found on all the latest quality sailing yachts. The varnished wood which took so many man hours to maintain was replaced by a natural Burma teak, which can be left bare and which benefits from a salty wash. The standard boats are powered by Volvo engines and controlled by Raymarine electronics but other options are available if preferred. Sasga recommends Volvo engines as they have an excellent worldwide after sales service. The new Sasga 55, has 2 x 480 HP Volvo engines as standard with a cruising speed of 19 knots with average fuel consumption of 40 litres per hour and a top speed of around 23 knots. The large fuel tanks allow the yacht to cruise some 1600 nautical miles before having to refuel. Production Today The Sasga yachts are built in the purpose-built factory in San Luis, near Mahón. Around 90 employees build around 20 boats per year depending on their size. Two 68-foot boats will be built in 2024 and each takes around 10,000 hours from start to finish. Sasga yachts are available in a hard top or a flybridge configuration and can be hand built to the customer’s specification, within the boundaries of the structural bulkheads. Sasga have built eight 68’s over the last three years and only one was standard. For example, plentiful wine storage is an important factor for some customers and 3 separate large fridges were installed below deck. The galley can be installed on the bridge, giving those preparing the food a wonderful 360 degree panoramic view.
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JULY 2024
Sasga Menorquin 34HT
Most recently a customer from Ralph Lauren has designed the interior with marble woods and fabrics to reflect the fashion house brand. The boats in the current range start at 34’ (soon to be 35’) and go up to the luxury Signature 68’s which are custom built to order down to the last detail. The Sasga 42’ is the current best seller in the range and new for next season is a brand new 48’ model. A difficult market All boat producers and sellers are going through a difficult period due to rising prices of materials and components. Private boat matriculations in Spain fell by 14% in 2022 to only 5847 although the number of boats registered for charter increased. Jose Luis told us that prices have risen by 30% putting pressure on manufacturers of smaller boats which are more price sensitive. Following the pandemic and the war in Ukraine many producers suffered shortages of components and engines, but Sasga were in a good position as they had engines in stock. There used to be six or seven shipyards in the Balearic Islands but they have now all disappeared with only Sasga and Capreador building boats in the Balearics. Jose Luis is particularly proud of the company’s ‘Outstanding Professional Career’ award presented to them by the AENIB (Association of Nautical Companies in the Balearics) Future markets At recent boat shows there has been an emphasis on many boat builders offering electric engines as options. Jose Luis says they have looked into the technology but it is not effective for their size of boats. A study by Ricardo on behalf of ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations) found that diesel was still the most efficient engine for large boats operating for only 60-70 hours per year although there could be benefits from developing recycled oil. Hydrogen power is an option for the much larger superyachts. At the Cannes Boat Show Sasga will introduce the new 35 model which has a Hard Top redesigned to integrate solar panels.
Pierre Coureil lives in the south of France, on the Côte d’Azur, and has been the owner of a Sasga Menorquin 34HT since 2021. He is from Toulon where he grew up with the atmosphere of the naval base and he has an ancestor who was a privateer, imprisoned in the Bastille in 1762 for “overly creative business”! When he was first married, Pierre and his wife had a sailboat that they towed along the coasts of France, with their first car. When the time came to retire, they wanted to rediscover this first passion. Before discovering Sasga Yachts they owned several different brands within the range of 10-12 metres to keep down costs, and to be able to access the less crowded ports of the Côte d’Azur. They then saw the Sasga Yacht 34 on the internet and it met all their requirements: two motors with in-line axles; a walkaround deck; spacious passenger cabin; a design with character, which is traditionally inspired and with quality and service Pierre contacted Sasga Yachts who put him in touch with Manuel d’Almeida, at Yachting Conseil, the French dealer. The sale closed quickly at the end of 2021 for delivery in autumn 2022. This gave Pierre and his wife time during the summer to visit the Sasga factory and discover Menorca, which they loved. When the boat was handed over they followed the delivery from the port of Mahon to Hyères step by step, almost in real time via video, before being welcomed on board with a bottle of champagne. Pierre Coureil is now also very involved in the Menorquin Club. Yachting Conseil organised a first meeting of a dozen Menorquin and Sasga yachts in June 2023. They went together to the island of Port Cros and all the owners enjoyed getting to know each other. This year they have formally launched the Menorquin Club in France, with the aim of having at least fifteen members with boats. Sasga Dealers from around the World
The new Sasga yachts appeal to the discerning customer looking for a motorboat with elegance and classic lines but without any of the hardships that the ownership of a traditional classic boat used to bring. The boats fit the concept of ‘Slow Yachting’ perfectly and this makes them a popular choice for sailors when their days spent hoisting sails have come to an end. Contact Jose Luis Sastre Gardés Sasga Yachts SL Tel:+ 34 971.156.779 Email: sasga@sasgayachts.com www.sasgayachts.com ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
Jose Luis Sastre
ISLAND NEWS
THE
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JULY 2024
BIG
INTERVIEW HUGH GRUNDY WITH
AND THE GECKOS
The Geckos are a British Band band based in Menorca featuring Hugh Grundy, the original drummer of The Zombies, inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, together with Mick Connor on guitar and Simon Holland on bass. Last year, after 8 years with the group, they considered calling it a day but they soon missed playing together live and are now back performing each month at Alexancas Tapas Bar in Son Parc. Hugh continues to make guest appearances with The Zombies’ current touring band, and when we met he had just returned from a concert at The Barbican with guest performer and huge Zombies fan, Paul Weller.
The Geckos at Alexancas Tapas Bar
How did the Geckos get together? The band started out as The Flaming Geckos, founded by Jason McMurray who had a recording studio in Menorca and there have been other band members over the years: Yvonne Keller, Richard Velarde and Richard Guyatt, who we describe as our ‘best ever frontman’. Everyone referred to us as The Geckos and so that is what we became. Now there are three of us and we like to say we are friends first and a band second. Mick: I was the first one to arrive in Menorca. Alison and I bought an apartment at Vista Golf Son Parc in 1999, before moving to a villa and then more recently to Es Mercadal. I am a joiner by trade and ran a management company here but I brought my guitar with me, having played in bands in the UK. I met Jason McMurray and started to play in Son Parc Amateur Musicians, known as SPAM.
Hugh with Paul Weller and Chris White
Hugh: I moved to Menorca to retire and we have been living in Na Macaret for 16 years. My wife Tracy is the sister of Roy Sturgeon and the family have a long connection with the island and I fell in love with the place. I sold my drums when we left the UK but I kept my snares, cymbals and sticks. (Hugh’s snare drum from the Zombies is in the Hall of Fame in Cleveland.) I met Mick in the Taj Indian restaurant in Addaia where we got talking about bands and of course Mick told Jason and I was invited to play the drums with SPAM. We then met Simon in Los Pablos who was also a guitarist but we persuaded him to join us as a Bass player. Simon: I moved to Menorca with my wife Kim. our daughter Isabela, and son Zak and Kim’s mother, Avril, who had recently lost her husband. Our youngest son Austin was born here. I worked in construction in the UK, and here in Menorca I have a plastering and construction company, Concept Menorca Services, and we also offer bespoke villa management. Tell me about the songs The Geckos have recorded in Menorca
Tracy and Hugh with Paul Weller © @Payleyphotography
Simon: We started out playing other people’s music and it was Hugh that suggested we write our own songs. The three of us along, with Jason and Richard Guyatt, wrote and recorded two songs in Jason’s studio. The first we named “I’d do it all Again” with Hugh in mind but if you listen to the song there is a bit on everyone in there. The second song is called “Rockstar” as we wrote it at the time the music industry had lost some big names one after another such as David Bowie, Glenn Frey, Prince, Leonard Cohen and George Michael.
D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
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JULY 2024
You have recently appeared in a Zombies documentary. Can you tell us a little about that? Hugh: It is a big budget documentary made by Tom Hanks’ production company and directed by Robert Schwartzman called “Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary”. It tells the story of the band from when we met as teenagers up to the present day. They filmed in many locations including Abbey Road and they came here to Menorca as they wanted to see what I am doing now. We shot a scene on Sant Tomás beach with a beautiful sunset. It is already out in the USA and it should be released very soon in UK and Europe. The Zombies were huge in the USA, some say bigger than the Beatles, and in other countries such as the Philippines and Scandinavia. Tell me about how your music took off and why it remains popular today. Hugh: Yes, we were really big in the USA; we were known as an ‘Invasion Band’ and our music had a west coast influence. We were big fans of the Beach Boys. We had our first hit in 1964 with “She’s Not There” which reached Number 12 in the UK but it climbed to No 2 in the US and sold over a million copies, earning us a Gold Disc. In 1968 we launched our new Odessey and Oracle album which we recorded at Abbey Road Studio. The album did nothing for a year and we went back to our normal lives thinking that our days as rockstars were over. However, “Time of the Season” written by Rod Argent, suddenly became a surprise hit in the USA after a DJ in Boise, Idaho, started to play the song and word spread from state to state. It climbed to No 3 on the US Billlboard Hot 100 and No 1 on the Cashbox chart. This year The Zombies celebrated ‘60 years on Tape’ and they are doing a UK wide summer tour. Last week they played at the The Barbican where I joined them on stage. I was delighted to meet Paul Weller and we also had Irwin Sparkes from the Hoosiers and Sarah Brown who was discovered singing in a Gospel Choir. I didn’t expect Paul Weller to be so excited to meet me, but he has said that our album Odessey and Oracle is probably his all-time favourite record. I have had the same agent, Rocks Management, for many years and they have done a brilliant job looking after my career. In 2019 we were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and I had to make a speech live in front of stars such as Stevie Nicks and Barbara Streisand. By the end I was crying my eyes out. Our songs continue to be used in films and on TV, for example in Kill Bill 2, 101 Dalmations, The Awakenings and in an episode of Friends when Jennifer Aniston leans on a juke box during a flashback and ‘Time of the Season’ starts to play. More recently it has been used for the trailer of The Gentlemen. How can people get to see you perform in Menorca? We play once a month at Alexancas Tapas Bar in Son Parc and we call ourselves an acoustic trio. Our next performance will be on Sunday 21st July and we start at 4pm in the afternoon so you can book a table on the terrace for lunch and then relax and enjoy the music. We are happy to do other events on request but our days of regular gigs are over, mostly due to the effort required to carry around our equipment. You can find details of The Geckos gigs on their Facebook page but be sure to book as there was a packed house at their last performance in June.
THE ZOMBIES Rod Argent, Paul Atkinson, Hugh Grundy, Colin Blunstone and Paul Arnold (later replaced by Chris White) all came together in St Albans, Hertfordshire in 1961 to form a band while they were still at school. In 1964 they won a prize in a beat-group competition and won a recording contract with Decca records. Their first hit, “She’s Not There” was released in mid-1964 and peaked at number 12 in the UK, becoming their only UK Top 40 hit. In the US, “She’s Not There” was a big hit along with “Tell Her No” in 1965. The group broke-up before achieving their greatest success – the worldwide charttopping single “Time of the Season,” from their album Odessey & Oracle. Following the break-up of the original band, lead vocalist Colin Blunstone went on to develop an acclaimed solo career (with hits including “Say You Don’t Mind,” “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted”, and “Old & Wise” with Alan Parsons Project) and keyboardist/songwriter Rod Argent’s band ARGENT (“Hold Your Head Up,” “God Gave Rock ‘n’ Roll To You”) rocked arenas in the 1970’s. There was a Zombies revival at the start of the new Millennium, when Blunstone and Argent were inspired to resurrect the band. They released “Still Got That Hunger” with special broadcast performances on shows such as Later…With Jools Holland, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The album Odessey & Oracle then re-entered the Billboard 100 at the same time as “Still Got That Hunger”, 48 years after its first success.
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
16
JULY 2024 By Beverley Ward
VOLUNTEER WORK AT THE
ISLA DEL REY We are into full season now, with plenty of interested visitors to show around the old British hospital. In fact, there are quite a number of people who don’t realise that they have to join a tour if they want to see all the exhibits around the ground floor, but it’s much more meaningful if you are told about how it has all come about, the work of the volunteers and the amazing story of what has been achieved with a lot of determination, a lot of hard work and with generous donations over what is now a period of 20 years. General Luis Alejandre, our President of the Foundation says that there are two more years of work still, but I suspect that is a bit tongue in cheek, the principal reconstruction work will be achieved in a few years more but the maintenance will remain for our children and grandchildren! Any of you who have a marés stone house to look after will know the challenges and upkeep needed, not least on repainting, so multiply that by about 20 times for the size of the old hospital. The reality is that all that the volunteers have achieved is for the generations to come, so local authorities and future volunteers must continue to love and care for this beautiful historic building as we have. As much as possible is being done to be respectful of the environment, at the moment we’re organising how to retain and reuse the rainwater, helped by European funding and installing LED lamps for spotlights thanks to a private donation. The extension to the jetty can now take place, (at least if the Port Authorities get around to it) since the white coral that was found has been very carefully and respectfully relocated.
VISITING GROUPS These days there are some regular groups that return to us, the holiday group of Saga for example, invariably very well behaved and polite British visitors who are brought over to us by their guide Maria; the walking group of Adagio have been coming back more and more frequently thanks to the efforts of Lorraine Ure and also a cookery group called Annie B who seem to pop up each year in between sampling the best of the local restaurants.
Alec Speakman
VOLUNTEER ALEC SPEAKMAN One of our English guides is Alec Speakman who seems to have established a special affinity with the Saga groups, amongst others. Much more than guiding, he’s one of the ideal volunteers who are willing and ready to help out wherever needed, he’s been coming to the Isla del Rey since 2008 and I have never yet heard him complaining about having to do a job - even when he’s trying to push the ex-supermarket cleaning machine along the top floor corridor and it regularly breaks down or doesn’t start and when it does work, there’s nowhere to throw away the waste water. Well, maybe just a few little grumbles..., but I love the fact that he just gets on and does what he can.
D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
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David Kitchener, being encouraged up into the roof by Keith Smith
A good part of the Anglican Chapel floor was laid by Alec in his early Sundays with us, the uncovering of the old stone baths at the Nun’s Jetty as well as steps and old drains uncovered are all thanks to Alec. He doesn’t have plaques in his name or applause but has left his mark in many places on the island. Alec says he likes meeting people and the camaraderie that exists amongst the volunteers. He very much enjoys the guiding work and especially when there are medical people in the group who of course have a special interest. We regularly have new volunteers joining us so don’t hesitate to come over and first do a Sunday tour so you know what it’s all about, and then if you would like to help out, you will be made very welcome. It can be occasional Sundays, or every Sunday, nobody will mind, we’re always grateful for the extra pair of hands. Remember that the English tours are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11.15 and on Sunday (best day to feel the atmosphere with the volunteers working all around you) at 09.15. Transport is with the yellow catamarans.
+ Info y Tickets: https://menorca.hauserwirth.com Fundación Hospital de la Isla del Rey - www.islahospitalmenorca.org https://www.yellowcatamarans.com/en/kings-island
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
Marga in the gift shop now selling Roqueta
ISLAND NEWS
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JULY 2024
BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN
MAHON There are a wonderful variety of boutique hotels now available each of the towns in Menorca. There are some fascinating stories behind these historic buildings which have been given a new lease of life. You can now stay in former pharmacies, shoe workshops, Merchant and Captain’s houses or the former French Consulate. This month we start in Mahon.
JARDI DE SES BRUIXES BOUTIQUE HOTEL C/ San Fernando, 26. Tel. +34 971 36 31 66 info@hotelsesbruixes.com ILLA SPA C/San Fernando, 32. Tel. +34 971 87 59 47 spa@hotelsesbruixes.com www.hotelsesbruixes.com Jardi de Ses Bruixes was one of Mahón’s original Boutique Hotels and this year it celebrates its 10th anniversary. It has become part of the fabric of the town, home to a magical inner courtyard cafe with orange trees, a luxurious spa and a lovely setting for the annual Christmas Fair. In the last 10 years the hotel has expanded and evolved into a selection of unique spaces, including Rural Hotel Son Granot, and ‘The Loft de Ses Bruxes’, each offering different options for clients, which now form the Jardi de Ses Bruixes Collection. History of the Building The original building dates to the beginning of the 19th century, when land belonging to the church was developed into Calle San Fernand in order to raise money for the church of Santa María. Don Francisco de la Torra, a ship’s captain, built the house at number 26 in 1811. It incorporated a tower so that he could have views over the mouth of the port to see the ships arriving in Mahón. Within less than a year the house passed into the hands of the Mercadal family and several generations lived there until in 1911. Following the crash of the Bank of Mahón, they were forced to sell. Don Sebastián Sapiña Femenías bought the house and commissioned his cousin Don Francesc Femenías Fàbregues to redesign it. They designed and built the modernist dining room, dressed the patio with arches and balustrades and added ornamental details such as the frieze of flower tiles and the cornices on the façade. The Sapiña family lived in the house until the 1990s when it was bought by the architect Nando Pons. It had fallen into disrepair, and so he renovated it and installed the ARU Arquitectura studio inside. Finally, in 2014, after a year of further renovation, the house was converted into the Boutique Hotel Jardi de Ses Bruixes, with 16 rooms spread over two buildings on the same side of the street.
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of a boutique hotel did not exist in Mahón, but I worked 18 hours a day to create one. Brunch did not exist then either but it was something I enjoyed at home and I insisted on it, although to start with no one came! How has the Hotel evolved over the last 10 years? We started with the houses at numbers 26,30 and 32 and with 16 rooms open just in summer. Then we had the idea for the Illa Spa in the 100m2 basement. However, our paper and pens got out of control and we ended up digging out a further 130m2 to create a truly magical experience. Another project has been to create ‘The Loft’, an open space in an old shoe factory at 21 Calle Roig, which we rent out for events such as team building or media shoots or a place to invite a private chef, as it has a professional kitchen. Some of our clients felt the space was too large and so we have recently redesigned it with distinct areas to be comfortable for groups of all sizes so that it can be used for a range of activities from yoga to dining.
Anja Sanchez-Rodrigo Wickers We went to visit Anja Sanchez-Rodrigo Wickers, CEO and founder of the hotel, who together with Nando Pons created its unique romantic atmosphere. She told us how it began and grew into the ‘Collection’ of today.
When an unexpected opportunity arose, we took over the management of the nearby rural hotel Son Granot near Es Castell where we now offer eight rooms plus three apartments in the garden stables. We can use the grounds to organise events and celebrations but the restaurant Can Los there is now run separately by Jose who previously had a restaurant in Es Castell and he offers lovely fresh fish dishes. We also have two private “Homes Ses Bruixes” which can be rented by families, one on the edge of the cliff of Cala Figuerassa with spectacular views over the Port of Mahón and one at the foot of the Fonduco quay, a fishing neighbourhood in the port inhabited mainly by local people, where you can still savour the seafaring atmosphere and just a few metres from the bathing area and jetty. Our heads are full of new ideas such as Sa Il-lustrada Concept store, on Annucivay 22, and the Urban Beach Club. Our clients often ask if we have a swimming pool so we thought ‘why not create one in the courtyard of a property near to Jardi des Bruixes?’. We always have a paper and pen to hand for dreaming and drawing, but perhaps now we will slow down for a while. Can the public use the Courtyard Café? This year Cafe Bruixes is open to the public for Breakfast and Brunch from 8am to 2pm where you can enjoy a morning of sunshine, flowers and the smell of coffee. If you are looking for a nice present, you can buy a Brunch voucher. There is a menu of freshly squeezed orange juice, Menorcan yogurt, fresh fruit and homemade granola, a platter of cheeses and sausages, smoked salmon or avocado, hummus with ‘crudités’ and an egg, cooked to order. Then of course there is a tempting cake, and a glass of cava, plus water and coffee or tea. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. We no longer offer afternoon teas but in the evening we are open to the public from 7pm to 11pm for Lateo Chic (closed Tuesdays) and on Wednesday evenings we have a guitarist.
How did you first know Menorca? I have a German mother and a Menorcan father and so I have always had a link with the island. In my 20’s I was living in Barcelona until, at the age of 28, I decided to show Menorca to my boyfriend and we visited in February. It was wild winter weather and as I stood looking out to sea in a storm, I got the feeling of being so small and part of nature and at that moment I knew I wanted to return to the island. I quit everything in Barcelona and relocated to Menorca. I have a degree in industrial design but I have had many jobs and taken more qualifications over the years working in bars and restaurants, in office and marketing jobs and in the marine industry.
What is Lateo Chic? In the evening the courtyard is so romantic, filled with 100 candles, and you can come to enjoy a drink or a cocktail before going out to dinner. Not everyone wants a big evening meal and so we are offering an alternative where you can come to enjoy a selection of wines, cheeses, food in cans and preserves for a more relaxed evening. It is ideal for couples or for groups of friends so we would love you to come and share in the magic
Did you dream of opening a hotel? I had always had a dream to buy somewhere and open my own café, but the prices of property in Menorca were so high I could never see it becoming a reality. I was brought up in an open home where my parents hosted cocktail parties and there were always people visiting. When I was a child, I often went to Germany to stay with relations and my uncle used to take me to lovely little traditional cafés for coffee and cake. I thought these cafés were so pretty with their tablecloths and counters of homemade cakes and those happy memories have always stayed with me. When I met Nando Pons and walked into the pretty courtyard of Jardi ses Bruixes for the first time, I could see straight away that it was a place where I could turn my dream into a reality. It was the time of the financial crisis when Nando’s architectural practice had fallen quiet and so together we made plans to turn the building into a boutique hotel with a courtyard café. We became such a team that we now say that there is nothing more dangerous than Nando and Anja with a paper and pen! At that time the concept
The Loft
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ISLAND NEWS
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JULY 2024
CASA LÁDICO HOTEL BOUTIQUE C/ Anunciavay, 26. Tel. +34 971 57 37 00 contacto@ladicohotel.com www.ladicohotel.com. This is a boutique spa hotel built in marés stone, and it has been designed to reflect the history of the Greek Ládico family, an illustrious family of Greek merchants who arrived on the island in 1753. The hotel became an interior design project based on solid wood, marés, a palette of paints and wallpapers from Farrow & Ball, natural fabrics from Yutex, upholstery from James Malone and contemporary furniture with iconic pieces. The luxurious spa suite has a steam sauna, double aromatic bathtub, shower, relaxation area and double treatment room designed to help you achieve well-being.
CAN ALBERTÍ 1740 C/ d’Isabel II, 9. Tel. +34 971 35 42 10 info@hotelcanalberti.com www. hotelcanalberti.com This hotel is steeped in history. It started with Vicente Alberti Vidal, whose family origins in Menorca date back to the 16th Century. His great-grandfather Vicente Diego Alberti Mercadal was knighted and ennobled in 1711. The coat of arms can be seen on the façade of the hotel. Vicente Alberti Vidal was a man of literature and speaker of several classical and modern languages, and he is said to have helped elevate the Menorcan language to the status of a literary language. The hotel holds art exhibitions and music events in the summer months.
CRISTINE BEDFOR GUEST HOUSES Carrer de la Infanta, 17. Tel. +34 971 63 55 05 mahon@cristinebedfor.com www.cristinebedforhotel.com Cristine, together with her friend the interior designer Lorenzo Castillo, spent several years trawling antique shops and fairs looking for special, unique pieces steeped in history to match the local architecture, materials and crafts of Menorca. There are 21 rooms and 21 stories. The restaurant is led by the Ses Forquilles Group and spearheaded by local chef Pau Sintes, serving breakfasts, brunch and cocktails in Cristine’s Secret Garden, with meals at the new Pool Bar, and dinners in the courtyard. Look out for events and recommendations on Cristine’s calendar.
CAN ROCA NOU C/ Santa Caterina, 4. Tel. +34 682 85 97 23 canrocanoumahon@gmail.com www.canrocanou.com The Can Roca Hotel was created from a family home but on passing down the generations it was split into two and the name was changed to La Isla. Paco, son of Luisa and Pepe, currently runs the Hostal La Isla, being the third generation of the business started by his grandfather Xec Llopes (Xev brought buses to Menorca and set up the Punta Prima Hotel). His wife Belen had the idea of opening a small hotel in a house owned by the family located in the same neighborhood and so was born the current hotel CAN ROCA NOU
EL CONSUL MAÓ BOUTIQUE HOTEL C/ Costa d’en Deià, 30. Tel. +34 660 632 207 a dmin@elconsulmao.com www.elconsulmao.com This former French Consulate is owned by Véronique and Didier, French, Canadian and Swiss travel enthusiasts who fell in love with the island in 2019. The building has been completely renovated and was finished in June 2022. Located close to the Teatro Principal, the listed facade is unique in Menorca and its patio is bordered by the old wall of Mahon dating from the 16th century. Look out for the original French consulate mast that adorned the facade. The use of refined wallpapers from Anambo, Isidore Leroy or Casamance, natural Italian fabrics and contemporary furniture give a chic and elegant atmosphere.
D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
ISLAND NEWS
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JULY 2024
SÍNDIC HOTEL C/ Sant Roc, 34. Tel. +34 971 36 00 05 / +34 693 910 515 info@sindichotel.com / www.sindichotel.com Síndic Hotel was once owned by the Apostolic Trustees of the Convent of San Francisco de Mahón from 1650 to 1826. It is located next to the Portal de Sant Roc, which is the only visible remains of the wall built by order of Pedro IV in 1359. The old medieval wall can be seen from the hotel’s restaurant-cafeteria. The hotel has eight unique rooms. On the first floor there are two rooms; one of them adapted for the disabled, with six on the second floor.
HEVRESAC C/ Anuncivay, 20 – C/ San Fernando, 1. Tel. +34 655 99 73 49 info@hotelhevresac.com www.hotelhevresac.com Hevresac is located within a seigneurial house from the late 18th century in Mahon at the corner of the streets Anuncivay and San Fernando. Anuncivay was opened up in 1792 and San Fernando in 1802 on disentailed clergy properties where neoclassical buildings were constructed by the merchants enriched by trading and the privateer activities in the Mediterranean sea. Hevresac is an art space as well as a hotel. The owners have created an inspiring place mixing architectural beauty with vintage and eclectic decoration to create a unique look. The word Hevresac in Menorcan emerges from the cosmopolitan Mahón of the 18th and 19th centuries. Originally from the German Hafersack, a backpack for barley, it also became the English Haversac and French Havresac. Hevresac was the family house of the captain, merchant and privateer Captain Joan Roca i Vinent who produced a hand written record of Mahon from 1776 to 1826. This “Diari de Mahó” itemized the naval activity of the port, the meteorology, the socialpolitical events and numerous anecdotes.
SANT ROC BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA C/ Sant Roc, 2-4. Tel. +34 971 66 86 91 reservas@boutiquehotelsantroc.com www.boutiquehotelsantroc.com Sant Roc & Spa is located in two former manor houses, between two important historic buildings buildings Pont de Sant Roc and Saint Mary’s Church, just a few metres from the Main Theatre. A spa and relaxation area open to the public is located on the cellar floor of house number 4.
SAN MIGUEL 3* C/ Comerç, 26. Tel. +34 971 36 40 59 info@hotelsanmiguelmenorca.com www.hotelsanmiguelmenorca.com San Miguel prides itself on its smart hosting, which they describe as “facilitating in the most intelligent, elegant and ingenious way possible, the accommodation of the client, whether travelling alone or with family. No matter who you are, who you love, how much money you have, your religious beliefs or where you come from, you will always be welcome.” The hotel first went from being an old manor house to a hostel for backpackers. The structure was totally modified leaving only a few details, such as the beautiful interior patio. Years later, a new owner took over the building and transformed it into a fullyfledged 3* hotel. In 2022 it was renovated again to become more ecological and sustainable.
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
FOOD & DRINK
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JULY 2024
EATING PRICE GUIDE € = up to €30 €€ = €30-50 €€€ = €50-80 €€€€ = €80-100 €€€€€ = Sky’s the limit!
OUT
Suddenly we are in the midst of high summer…. As I write this in midJune, there is still a question mark as to whether we are being negatively impacted by the “anti tourism” brigade. We were in Ciutadella at lunchtime today and it was really quiet. Of course, it may have been the calm before the storm of St Joan fiesta, but the town centre has been declared a “traffic free zone” with notices on all the approach roundabouts, which certainly sends out a ‘not welcome’ message to would-be visitors! However, we found a nice parking space in the Plaça des Born, where parking is free on the weekdays from 2.00pm-6.00pm. A huge pre-Fiesta funfair was in situ! Such a glorious town to visit, with a number of new elegant bars and restaurants.
By Lorraine Ure and Roqueta’s Team of Tasters
JULY 2024
I am introducing a new “marker” in my reviews, which is “disability accessible” ”DA”. I think many readers may find this useful, especially for those with any level of walking issues.
RESTAURANT DOS CAMINS Calle de Roser 9, Ciutadella Tel: 648 566644. €€. DA. (but stairlift not working on our visit!) Open just two months, this family-run restaurant has a great central location next to the old Roser (decommissioned) church which is now a gallery. There are tables on the pavement, but also a larger indoor seating area, and a delightful courtyard garden to the rear of the property. Three of us enjoyed a delicious lunch of chicken cannelloni, skate with capers, a tomato and mozzarella salad, pan con tomate plus wine, water and beer. The bill was just under 100€ for three. The menu should satisfy most tastes and they encourage diners to share each dish. Other offerings included oysters (becoming very popular here now), prawn tartare, steak tartare, pork belly, fillet of red Menorcan beef and more. Dos Camins is located in the “Fragile Hotel, Restaurant and Contemporary Art” which has 6 rooms. Very on trend! Situated a two-minute walk from the Cathedral. www.hotelfragile.com
NURA, HOTEL RURAL SANTA PONSA (FONTENILLE MENORCA) Carretera de Llucalari, near Alaior. Tel: 971 372352. €€€. DA. One of the ever -growing collection of fabulous “Hoteles Rurales” dotted around Menorca. Many of course offer dining exclusively for their residential guests, but here is a restaurant open to the public both for lunch and dinner. It was a real treat to come to this beautifully restored 18th century mansion and its lush grounds. The restaurant, called Nura, is in an old boyera (barn) set apart from the residential section, allowing guests of the hotel to enjoy privacy. We dropped in one day on the off-chance and we were lucky to get a table. They also have electronic gates, so you do need to telephone to gain entry! They serve their own wine from the estate, and 80% of the produce comes from their own land but they also serve the most delicious bread I’ve ever tasted. Unbelievably it comes from Barcelona! Monday nights they offer live Flamenco plus Paella and maybe a barbecue too, for a truly a Spanish experience. The lunch menu consists of varies tapas, including a really fresh garden salad. Mains include “catch of the day” to share (price according to the market), a green curry of bluefin tuna with garden herbs (35€), free range chicken (28€)… taste the difference!, rigatoni with fresh truffles (my choice - 22€) plus a variety of other dishes. They also offer a children’s menu at 20€……only available for under 12’s! There were 5 delicious desserts, including frosted lemons from the finca, and local ice creams and sorbets. This is a place for a special treat and a very different experience!
FOOD & DRINK
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JULY 2024
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
D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
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HOTEL AGROTURISMO LLUCASALDENT GRAN
OYSTERS MENORCA
On the road from Alaior to Son Bou 2.4 km. On the righthand side, prominently signposted. Tel: 636 974048. €€€. DA.
Carrer de L’Iglesia 5, Mahon. 971 351096. DA.
Another very special treat! It’s Adults Only, but open to the public for dinner. Also, a fabulous venue for weddings and special occasions. We were lucky to spend two nights there as a birthday treat. It was like entering another world! An old farmhouse situated in 100 hectares of land, much of it now a vineyard with 7,000 vines. Their own fine red wine is only available to hotel guests. They also produce their own olive oil (800 trees) which has a really distinct flavour (olive oil is like gold dust now….) and which is for sale in their small gift shop. Cristina and Germán run the operation with super efficiency. The rooms are gorgeous, cool, spacious and very well furnished and stocked! For hotel guests you can take lunch on your private terrace. Breakfast in the main hotel is faultless… everything you could ever imagine! And the dinners were exceptional too. Great use of local produce including what they claim to be the best Suckling Pig ever! I am a bit of a sucker for “cochinillo”, but I do heartily agree with them (29€). As good as in Segovia! They have a golf buggy to help you get around, an added bonus indeed. The view from our room encompassed Monte Toro to our left and the airport landing lights to the right, with Alaior glistening in the distance. There were two lovely pools just a couple of paces away. After 2 days we felt we’d had a real holiday, with no airports involved! Very highly recommended.
When I first started living in Menorca in the 1990s, the upper part of Mahon had very little to offer in terms of sustenance in the evenings when enjoying the cultural delights at the wonderful Teatro Principal. Even finding a drink or snack before or after a performance was a challenge. How it’s all changed now! I got together with a friend from Andalusia recently. We first had a drink in her charming little hotel, Es Consul, the original French Consulate building. On the road up to the Teatro on the right, behind a discreet front door, this boutique establishment has an honesty bar for guests, six bedrooms and a delightful courtyard garden at the rear. We then went to sample the recently relocated restaurant. “Oysters Menorca”, now located in the premises of the old Italian, Punt 7, not far from their old location. The restaurant has much more space and flexibility for expansion now, including a rear courtyard and private dining area. The Dutch owner really knows his business too. We had a taster dish, offering 2 x four different varieties of oyster; Dutch, Irish, French and Portuguese, all very clearly explained by the attentive staff. They have installed a fish Smoker, and they are now smoking their own Salmon, which was super delicious. One of my favourite dishes in the world is Smoked Eel, hard to come by in Menorca, but hugely popular in Holland. I was not disappointed. They also serve the freshest mussels…..and caviar of course! Fine wines accompany your meal. The whole vibe about the place was more “Madrid” than “Mahon”, and it’s a great addition to a burgeoning night time destination. No wonder many people are choosing to live in the centre of town these days. Everything so close to hand and no need for a car, which is just as well as parking continues to be a challenge everywhere and will only get worse in the next few weeks! However, we’ve had some excellent service from the taxis, cheap and punctual, which take you door to door when allowed! Enjoy your summer dining……and keep the reviews coming in for future editions of Roqueta! Here are some reviews from our team this month.
BAR MARCELINO MESTRE WINE BAR Moll de Llevant 209, Mahon port. Tel: 971 966801. €€. DA. Closed Tuesdays and Sunday night. Such an interesting building! Tables outside are much sought after, but inside is fascinating. It shows the history of the once very active boatbuilding history of the port, and is the “birthplace” of the original “Yellow Catamarans” which can be seen in historic photos. There is also a display of the old tools and equipment. Presided over by the genial Lucas, the menu is most refreshingly unusual showing most imaginative use of herbs and spices, giving a whiff of the Orient. We particularly enjoyed the whole baby chicken (Picanton) in a yellow curry sauce (24€), fish tacos (6.50€), and Secreto of Pork. The menu changes with the seasons and the very best thing is to share so that you can experience a whole variety of new flavours. The staff explain everything very clearly and make sure you order just the right amount. We enjoyed it so much that we needed two bottles of Muga Rosado (23€ each) plus someone suggested a Cardinal Mendoza brandy to round it all off (9€), hence our bill came out as 60€ pp……but we could have done it much cheaper! (It was that very wet ¨monsoon day¨, well, that´s our excuse!).
Mercat des Claustre, Local 2, 07701 Mahón. €. Open Wed/Thursday 6pm-12am; Thurs/Fri/Sat 12-4pm and 7pm -1am; Sun 12-4pm. By John Hewitt There is a new traditional Spanish bar in Sa Plaça in Mahón called Bar Marcelino which is a sister to Can Vermut in the port. It serves seven excellent Spanish tapas and has a really good beer and wine section. There are tables in the Sa Plaça side and on the outside with a port view. The staff are friendly and fun and provide excellent service. I will be back.
SPOILT FOR CHOICE IN CALA EN PORTER!! By Mrs Yummsville Staying local... in Cala en Porter you can dine out somewhere different every night suiting all budgets and not be disappointed as the standard is really good now! There are seven Spanish, three Italian, a French, a Chinese & an English restaurant with stunning cliff top dining. There are two new ice cream parlours along with our great café bars producing really good homemade fare. This month I will start with Sa Paissa
SA PAISSA Av. Central, 54, Cala en Porter. 2 courses €€ Closed Tuesdays. Hard to beat is Sa Paissa, the Spanish/Mediterranean restaurant taken over by Alex and his family (formerly of Lorengos) situated in the heart of Cala en Porter. I had delicious Mussels in Almond sauce... so nice I could not stop dunking the bread in the sauce! Hubby indulged in fresh sweet sardines followed by a tender tasty entrecot with pepper sauce. As a keen fisherman, Alex always has good fresh fish on the specials boards that I can recommend. Tony, our waiter, was great fun and top service! Washed down with a good Ribera red wine & water,
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
FOOD & DRINK
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JULY 2024
D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
FOOD & DRINK
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JULY 2024
great food they serve that on weekends the good citizens of Ciutadella flock here, making getting a table without a reservation almost impossible. As we were to eat on a Saturday we reserved a table inside, rather than on the two outside terraces and were duly seated in the busy and vibrant restaurant.
MASALA INDIAN RESTAURANT Plaza de España, 19, 07769 Los Delfines. Tel: 971 388 370. €. Open every day: 13.00-15.30; 18.00-23.30 By Pat Eley After a miserable wet UK winter we were so pleased to finally get back to Menorca in mid-April. Our little Mini had been moved from storage to the airport for us so we made a swift getaway down to our home in Cala Blanes. Of course the problem pre-season is that there are only a few restaurants open but we knew we could rely on Masala Indian to already be in full swing. It was a cold night but the welcome, as always, was extremely warm. Amrul and his staff are some of the nicest guys you could wish to meet and nothing is too much trouble for them. We’ve eaten there every week we’ve spent on the island since they opened 8 years ago so we’ve pretty much worked our way through the menu, but after polishing off a couple of poppadoms with mango chutney and mint yoghurt, we opted for two old favourites, a beautiful creamy Masala Butter and a slightly more spicy Chicken Ceylon, served with a light and fluffy pilau rice and a delightfully thin coriander naan. The chicken was succulent and plentiful and the sauces had a perfect balance of spices delivering a superb flavour to both the dishes. We’ve been back several times since April, sometimes opting for lamb dishes which have such tender meat it melts in the mouth, and always great rice and naan. We mostly have a very nice bottle of house rosé with our meal which generally costs in total around 45€, amazing value for such consistently great food and service. They’re quite happy to adjust a dish to suit your personal tastes, and if you’re celebrating a birthday they will even organise a cake for you (with advance notice, of course). We still have a few weeks left on the island before we head off through France back to the UK so still plenty of time for a few more spicy delights. Oh yes, and the menu is now also available in French.
ES REPLEC Av. Los Delfines, 9, 07769 Los Delfines. Tel 971389831. €€ By Pat Eley During the last week of May, my husband celebrated his 60th birthday. Amongst his cards from home was one from his mother which contained 60€. In the few minutes it had taken me to think of 20 things “he” could spend it on he had already decided we would use it for a steak dinner, in which case (no hesitation required) it had to be Es Replec. A true Menorcan family-owned restaurant, headed up by Raul, Es Replec has been in Cala en Forcat for more years than even Raul can remember, but they moved to their present location 12 years ago and have never looked back. It’s testimony to the
They have a full and varied menu consisting of traditional Menorcan dishes alongside pizza and burgers or fillet steak, cooked on a hot stone at your table. This is normally Rob’s “go to” place for a pizza as he says they are the best. Personally, as I don’t like cheese (I know, a minority) I favour the Chimichurri chicken, a whole small and succulent spatchcocked bird with a coating that is described as picante although it isn’t at all spicy by UK standards. But this was a special occasion so, after a delicious garlic bread starter, we both opted for the Picanha (rump cap) steak, one medium and one medium-to-well-done as it comes with a thin layer of fat which is delicious when bbq’d, the method used to cook almost all the meats in Es Replec, which gives them their distinctive flavour. There’s a choice of vegetables or salad and chips or jacket potatoes, all equally lovely. Our bill, including a bottle of very nice wine was just 60€, and I can honestly say they were the most tender and tastiest steaks either of us have ever eaten in Menorca. If you’re ever in Los Delfines treat yourself, you won’t regret it!
CA´N ANDRES, Carrer Nou 22b, Es Mercadal, Tel 622346801. € By Christine Brooker Six of us, four adults and two children, went to Ca´n Andres, a new restaurant in Es Mercadal; easy to find in Carrer Nou, nearly opposite Las Vegas and Ca´s Sucrer. It is small so booking in advance is recommended. Andres, the owner and chef, was previously the chef at Es Moli, also in Es Mercadal. We went one Saturday lunchtime and shared tapas. We sampled Goat´s cheese salad which included fruit, nuts and a mango sauce, unusual and delicious; mussels’ marinière; escalivada (aubergines, red peppers, onions and cherry tomatoes); and baked zamburiñas a la Gallega which are small scallops and were cooked as they do in Galicia. They also brought us some toast with a topping, on the house. The children had some breaded chicken strips with a sauce. A bottle of their house white wine, Blanco Polar from Castilla Leon was very good, and we had water, and Fanta orange for the children. Although we were full, we shared a slice of homemade cheesecake and tiramisu – yummy – and my husband had ice cream with Amaretto. We followed this with coffee. The whole lot came to 87 euros, which we thought was reasonable. The portions were a good size, and the atmosphere was very pleasant. Open for breakfast, lunch and some evenings. Closed Sunday.
PUIG SA ROCA Diseminado Poligono 11, 96, Cami Sa Roca, 07740 Sa Roca, Tel 971188642 By John €€€ Our friends Les and Kate from Son Parc love this pretty little hotel and restaurant in Sa Roca, for its feeling of peace tranquillity, perhaps something to do with the Buddhist temple nearby. You take the Cami Sa Roca off the Mahon to Fornells road, just past the Son Parc turning if you are coming from Mahon, and head deep into the countryside. The dining tables are situated under a lovely terrace covered with a mix of bougainvillea and other flowers. We were welcomed to our table, decorated with candles and petals by our host Andrea who speaks perfect English. Kate told us that the menu has remained the same for many years as whenever Andrea tries to change it there are too many complaints that favourites have disappeared. We shared two starters between the four of us and Kate wanted us to try a dish of thistle in a creamy sauce. This was the first time we had tasted thistle, and it was delicious with the appearance of celery but with a soft texture. We also chose a starter of sautéed green beans from the garden. Les told us that the garlic soup is excellent. For our main courses Les chose his favourite entrecote with brandy sauce which he rates as one of the best on the island, but he also loves the lamb shoulder and suckling pig. Liz chose baked cod with allioli and oven baked potatoes and I chose the Goulash, which was delicious. It is on the expensive side, but the portions are large and all mains come with a plate of vegetables included. This restaurant is a perfect antidote for all those who are tired of plain food and crave a sauce with their meat, fish or vegetables. The desserts are all homemade and perfect for sharing and we chose the pina colada ice cream. Puig Sa Roca is often listed as one of the most romantic restaurants in Menorca, with a magical atmosphere. Our bill came to 300 Euros including tip including 3 gin and tonics and a bottle of the Ribera Antidoto wine.
FOOD & DRINK
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JULY 2024
Henry and Sophie’s wedding at Son Bonaventura.
EATING DENADA PRIVATE CHEFS Alex and Rob at Denada are this season providing afternoon teas and evening BBQs at Menorca Cricket Club as well as providing the meals for the private jets arriving on the island. They continue to offer catering for events from intimate gatherings to lavish weddings, and their deli and dining experiences with delicious salads and barbecues inspired by the South African Braai. Here are some photos of the food they prepared for the wedding of Henry and Sophie last year at Son Bonaventura. Hola@ denada.es www.denada.es
OUT ! A R T EX
SA PUNTA NEWS In July and August all confirmed bookings will be on the terrace, and we continue not to put time limits for tables. The dining room is held and available for weather events and walk-ins. They are also open for lunch every day with great views of the harbour and usually a welcome breeze. Moll de Sa Punta has a new tapas menu this year and no reservations are required. They also have their signature cocktails and of course iNNat, GLOP and HERBES BINIARBOLLA
AMAPOLA BAKERY Responding to many requests Matthew Meacham owner of Sa Punta has decided to re-open the bakery Amapola and sell to the public. Amapola baked their bread as suppliers in their first two seasons, and in-house last year after deciding to close in Mahon. It is located in Cales fonts on the left just before driving around the curve to Sa Punta. They will sell the bread to the public in 500g loaves plus other sweet products. There will also be a cafeteria offering creative breakfast options. Open to begin with 9am to 1pm Thursdays to Monday. They will close Tuesdays and Wednesdays to allow their bakers to rest, and to be sure to only sell freshly baked bread. They hope to open to the public on 6 July.
Rob on the BBQ at the wedding
FOOD & DRINK
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JULY 2024
ROQUETA RECIPE
ROAST CAULIFLOWER AND RED CABBAGE SALAD
Chef Rob Bell, DENADA
INGREDIENTS
METHOD
1/4 head red cabbage 1/2 head cauliflower Chickpeas Curry powder Apple Raisin or cranberry Red onion Vinegar
Slice red cabbage as thinly as you can. Sprinkle a little vinegar and pinch of salt over the cabbage and place in the fridge. Do the same with the red onion in a separate bowl. This step takes out the bitterness from both. I usually do this in the morning. Sprinkle a teaspoon of curry powder over the cauliflower and Roast the cauliflower in florets in the oven with a healthy glug of olive oil. Do this at 180c until just soft. Leave to rest to complete cooking. With the chickpeas you can prepare these in advance. I have a jar of them for a quick snack or to add them to my salads. In an oven set to low temp. 140c-150c roast the chickpeas slowly with Just a little oil and some spices. My favorite it razul hanout. The longer the roast the crunchier they become. Be careful not to have the oven too high as they tend to explode. Battonet or cube the Apple. This will give you a little freshness in the salad. I like textures throughout the salads so usually add some dried fruit too, cranberries or raisins are great. About half a cup. You can use a simple vinaigrette with this salad or even a mayonnaise based dressing. Look out for my next recipes.
FOOD & DRINK
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JULY 2024
BOD EGAS TORR ALBA ALR E A DY A M E DAL WI N N E R! ! ! Torralba is a newcomer on the Menorca wine scene and, in only its second year of production, two of their wines have already been awarded prestigious medals
Photo by Benjamin Deroche
By Lili Jaubert
The Alba Rosé Menorca 2023 wine, made by Bodegas Torralba, with a 100% Monastrell blend, has obtained the Gold Medal in the prestigious Brussels World Wine Competition where 1,500 wines were presented from 50 different countries. Alejandro Feu, general director said “it fills us with satisfaction to receive this recognition, also as the only rosé wine from Menorca, and from all the Balearic Islands.” Alba Rosé Menorca 2023 is described on their poetic website “as a pale pink wine like the morning when the sun is still low. Bright as when it begins to rise and the reflection falls into the sea. With the softness of red fruits, but with a refreshing touch, like the last days of summer.” The Alba Blanca is “a captivating blend of fresh blossoms and sun-kissed fruits. The long, flavourful finish is reminiscent of the sun-drenched hours that stretch out ahead of you.” Torralba de Ciutadella is the youngest vineyard in Menorca and yet is already the largest. The Malvasia vines are surrounded by dry stone walls, and those of Monastrell and Garnacha can be found where there were once wild olive trees. Since 2017, over 22 hectares have been planted, with 60% red grapes and 40% white. Jean Moueix, along with Cyril Paillard, had the opportunity in 2015 to take over the 200-hectare property, located on the road to Macarella. Jean Moueix is general director of Pétrus wines in Bordeaux, and owner of hotels in Paris, London, Ibiza and New York. Cyril Paillard, a former banking executive, has been a frequent visitor to Menorca since his childhood. In 2016, Xavier Choné, an ampelogist (vine biologist), came to see if the land was suitable to become a vineyard, and to investigate where the vines could be planted and which grape varieties would be most appropriate. The property had been abandoned for several years, and a neighbouring farmer let his cows graze in the few areas that had not been overgrown with ullastres (wild olive trees).
Jean Moueix and Cyril Paillard Photo Josep Bagur Torres, Diari Menorca
But on either side of the valley the ullastres growing on the limestone were more abundant and these had to be cleared before planting could commence. It took some thinking to find a solution to planting vines where the limestone was so prominent. The option chosen was to dig out trenches (using GPS) in the limestone, fill them back with soil, and after a year or two of cultivation, the land was ready to be planted, again using GPS. The limestone turns out to be a great ally of the vines as it absorbs the winter rains, which the vine roots can extract during the dry season. There is no artificial irrigation at Torralba. Cover crops help to avoid soil erosion and after the harvest, when all the leaves have fallen, sheep take over and graze for a few months, before the new leaves start growing. In the areas where the ullastres have been cleared, 4 donkeys keep the vegetation under control. Olive and almond trees have also been planted on those plots not suitable for vines. The wine cellar has not yet been built, as the licence is still being processed, but a provisional one is being used in Ferreries. Torralba is the first wine producer from the Balearic Islands to join the Spanish Wine Federation (FEV). You can buy the wine at VINUM , at Calle Marineros y Pescadores, 4 in the Industrial Park of Ciutadella. https:// vinum-menorca.com/
Xavier gave the green light, and the first vines were planted in the spring of 2017, at the western edge of the property, which is the lowest point and where the soil was deepest. There is a sort of valley that runs from NorthEast to South-West, and in the past, in order to keep the soil from washing off during the heavy rains, very thick walls were built perpendicular to the flow allowing deep soil to accumulate. ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
FOOD & DRINK
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By Michael Stevenson
SUPERMARKET
WINES Our Menorcan supermarkets get better every year as does the range of Spanish wine they stock. Most are very reasonably priced and have a broad selection, increasingly including wines from other countries. Of recent vintages only 2013 has been a year to avoid.
COTO DE IMAZ, RIOJA RESERVA 2019, 14% ABV, ALDI, EROSKI, MERCADONA AND WIDELY AVAILABLE AROUND 8 - 9€ Lovely dark ruby red, good nose with smoky young oak aromas, concentrated dark fruit, roasted plums, toasty character, balsamic notes on the palate with a full-bodied finish. Good with roast beef or lamb.
Some recent years have had a smaller yield due to difficult weather conditions but the quality was generally good. Beware of wines under 4€ but that is not to say that there are not some very worthwhile bargains about below that price as you will see below. Like most of Europe, prices have risen since last year. There are still some very over-oaked tintos around at low prices which taste like chewing old furniture. Avoid those cheap tintos whose labels are plastered with the word “Roble” (oak). On the blanco side, avoid cheap Sauvignon Blanc which can be over acidic and will strip the enamel from your teeth.
PRINCIPE DE VINA, ROSADO, NAVARRA 2023, GARNACHA, 13% ABV, EROSKI 4.85€ Lovely bright rosado, attractively fruity nose, raspberries and strawberries. Fresh and very fruity, lively and bursting with flavour. Crisp and well balanced, it is our house rosado. So moreish and delightful to drink. Good aperitif and also with light tapas and fish dishes.
HERE ARE MY SUPERMARKET RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THIS MONTH. GOOD DRINKING!
TINTO ARTESO CRIANZA RIOJA 2024, BODEGAS ONTANON, 14% ABV, MERCADONA 4.50€ Very dark ruby red, ripe almost sweet nose. Smooth ripe dark fruit and mid to full bodied with some power and good balance. Well made with a gentle long finish, very drinkable. Good with stews and grilled meats. LA ENTERMERA, TINTA DE TORO 2021, 15% ABV, ALDI 5.49€ Very dark red, closed but powerful nose. Big dark ripe fruit, blackberries, very concentrated and multilayered. Good balance, ripe tannins and long finish. Good with BBQs and stews. MARTINEZ LACUESTA, CRIANZA, RIOJA 2019, 14% ABV, BOTIGA DE S’UESTRA 9.30€ Vibrant ruby red with a lovely ripe fruity nose. Classy ripe Crianza, well made Rioja with great fruit definition and balance. An excellent subtle and complex wine that really grows in the mouth. Good with grilled red meats.
ROSADO
CHEVITE, LAS FINCAS, ROSADO RIBERAS 2022, GARNACHA, 13.5% ABV, SA BOTIGA DE S’UESTRA 11.30€ Pale coral pink with a floral and herby nose. Light red berry fruit, dry and elegant and lovely balance with a good finish. Good aperitif and goes well with prawns.
BLANCO CON UN PAR, BLANC DE NOIR, BOBAL, UTIEL - REQUENA 2023, 12% ABV, ALDI 3.49€ Very pale green, flowery fruit blossom nose. Very light with good fruit, tasty peaches. Good balance, some length and a good finish. Enjoyable drinking. Good aperitif and with fish tapas. SALNEVAL, ALBARINO VAL DE SALNES, RIAS BAIXAS 2023, 12.5% ABV, LIDL 5.89€ Pale green with a soft flowery peachy nose. Good creamy fruit, apricots and peaches and a lovely flavour with excellent balance. Quite complex and long with a sweet ripe fruit finish. Very drinkable and great value. Good aperitif and with light fish dishes. BESO DE LUNA, VIURA, RIOJA 2023, 12.5% ABV, VEGAN, ALDI 2.79€ Very pale green, slight floral nose. Light white fruit flavour, flowery and very refreshingly crisp coupled with lovely purity and excellent balance. Surprisingly complex and well structured, a hint of greengages with a long dry finish. Excellent wine at an excellent price. Would be very good with shellfish, fishy tapas, chicken salads. Happy summer drinking!
D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
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A TOWN WITH TEN NAMES ES CASTELL is today a charming little town at the entrance of the Port of Mahon, nestled between Cales Fonts and Cala Corb. Its origins date back to 1555 when King Felipe II ordered the construction of a castle to defend the port and the island of Menorca against attacks from the enemies of Spain. Over the centuries it has had three different locations and ten different names. Can any other town in the world beat this? By Fernando Serrano Llabres • Houses were first built to accommodate the people who came to work on the castle, using stone from the same quarry. The resulting village was known as ARRAVAL or the suburb. • At the beginning of the XVIII century the British occupied Menorca and decided to enlarge the castle, hence they needed to move the houses to a new position, but not too far away. This new village was called ARRAVAL NOU by the locals and up to 3000 people lived there. • Meanwhile the British referred to the same town as PHILIP’S TOWN, as can be seen on various maps of the time. • When the French conquered Menorca in 1756 the name of the fortress and the surrounding area on their maps was changed, naturally, to PHILIPPE’S VILLE. • Great Britain took back control of Menorca in 1763 under the Treaty of Paris. This time they decided that PHILIP’S TOWN was still too close to the fortress, being a severe inconvenience to its defence. Therefore, in 1771, Patrick McKellan designed a new town in its present position. It took 3 years for the inhabitants to take down their homes, block by block, wood beam by wood beam, roof tile by roof tile, and carry the materials to the new land to rebuild the town. This included the church and the 5 windmills, two of which are still standing today. What an immense undertaking! • The new town was a perfect example of a British urbanisation. It consisted of a central parade ground surrounded by the military barracks, and all streets were in perfect alignment Northeast to Southwest and Southeast to Northwest, inspired by the structure of Roman encampments. The town was named GEORGETOWN in honour of King George III.
• The locals, however, who did not speak English, referred to it as VILLA JORDI, Jordi being the Menorquin equivalent of the British George. (Editor’s Note: This naming tradition continues today with the late Queen Elizabeth always referred to as Queen Isobel, the current King as Carlos and Prince William as el príncipe Guillermo). • In 1782, when the Spanish reconquered Menorca, they did not want a Spanish town named after a British king and so they renamed it in honour of their King, Carlos III and REAL VILLA DA SAN CARLOS appeared on the maps. This was a very pompous name, too long to be easily pronounced, and it was subsequently shortened to VILLA CARLOS. The town was known by this name throughout the 19th and 20th centuries and lots of people still call it by this name today. • When the Town Hall decided to reintroduce the Menorquin (or Catalan) names they decided to return to how the original village was referred to by locals as ES POBLE DES CASTELL (the village of the castle) and this was again simplified to ES CASTELL as it is known today. MORE FACTS ABOUT ES CASTELL The current municipality split from Mahón in the second half of the 19TH century. It appeared in the census as Villacarlos until 1981. In the 1991 census onwards it was named Es Castell. The population remained steady at around 2,500 people from 1887 to 1970. It then grew steadily reaching a peak of 7,895 people in the 2011 Census. It had a population of 7,670 inhabitants in 2023 according to INE (National Institute of Statistics). The municipality includes Es Castell - municipal capital -, Bello Horizonte (Son Vilar),Cala San Esteban (Cala Sant Esteve), El Fonduco, Santa Ana, Sínia d’en Riera, Sol del Este and Trebalúger. ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
Es Castell is the most eastern municipality on the island of Menorca and in Spain and is therefore the first place in the country to see the sun rise. The Shield of Es Castell portrays St. George slaying the dragon. ES CASTELL TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE: Location: Thalassa Maritime Heritage Centre. (Camí de les Escoles, 07720 Es Castell, Balearic Islands) Telephone: 971367437 Email: turisme@ aj-escastell.org Open from 15th June to 15th September at the following times: Monday - 10:00 to 13:00 and 18:00 to 21:00 Tuesday/Wednesday – Closed Thursday – Sunday – 10:00 to 13:00 and 18:00 to 21:00 Free Guided tours start on a fortnightly basis from Thursday 27th June, running until Thursday 12th September, departing from the Tourist Office at 19:00h with an approximate duration of 90 minutes. HISTORICAL MILITARY MUSEUM MENORCA Plaça de s’Esplanada, 19, 07720 Es Castell, Illes Balears Tel 971362100 Open June to August: Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 13:00 and first Sunday of the month. September to May: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:00 to 13:00 and first Sunday of the month. January and February: closed. GUIDED TOURS OF CASTILLO DE SAN FELIP book online www.consorciomilitarmenorca.com
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MYRTLE MYRTUS COMMUNIS, SYMBOL OF LOVE AND BEAUTY By Marc Moll
Myrtle, a shrub also known as arrayán or mirto in Menorca, is a plant native to the Mediterranean region. It reaches a height of 5 metres and has very fragrant leaves and large white flowers which bloom between May and July. It prefers warm, sunny climates, growing in well-drained soils. The berries of the myrtle are called murtons and they ripen in October and November. In Menorca it can be found almost everywhere on the island, and there is even a cove named Es Murtar in the Maó area; it is a protected shrub. Formerly in Menorca a variety called floquet was cultivated because it has a larger and sweeter fruit to eat. In gardening Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is a highly valued plant in Mediterranean gardening due to its adaptability, beauty and variety of uses. Thanks to its dense and compact growth, myrtle is ideal for forming hedges and borders. It can be pruned to maintain a desired shape and provide privacy and protection from the wind. Its fragrant flowers and leaves make myrtle an excellent choice for aromatic gardens, where species selected for their pleasant fragrances are planted. It combines well with other typical species of the region such as lavender, rosemary and olive trees. Its drought resistance and low maintenance needs make it perfect for this type of garden. Its flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the berries can provide food for various birds, contributing to the biodiversity of the garden. Myrtle, with its rich symbolic history, continues to be a plant revered and used in many cultures for its multiple meanings ranging from love and fidelity to peace, prosperity and renewal. Myrtle in history and folklore Myrtle was the tree of Aphrodite, the goddess of eternal youth also known for love, lust, beauty, pleasure, passion, and procreation. The Romans made wreaths from myrtle for their wedding celebrations, and it was planted in the garden of Venus. The Romans also used myrtle berries to flavour sausages called farcimen myrtatum or murtatum and some people believe the name mortadella derives from these. In Menorca, myrtle features in traditional folklore in many songs and sayings. D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
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Active ingredients The main chemical constituents of myrtle include: • Essential oils: myrtenol, myrtenal, cineol, and limonene. • Tannins: with astringent properties. • Flavonoids: such as myricetin, with antioxidant properties. • Organic acids: such as malic acid. Medicinal properties Myrtle has been traditionally used in natural medicine for its many benefits: • Antiseptic: myrtle’s essential oils have antiseptic properties that help fight infections. • Expectorant: It is useful in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and coughs. • Astringent: Helps to reduce inflammation and is effective in the treatment of diarrhoea. • Antioxidant: Flavonoids present in myrtle combat oxidative stress. • Digestive: Stimulates digestion and may relieve gastrointestinal problems. Medicinal preparations • Myrtle leaf infusion: Used to treat respiratory and digestive infections. It is prepared by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. • Myrtle essential oil: Used in aromatherapy and on the skin, diluted in a carrier oil, to treat infections and improve breathing. • Myrtle syrup: Made from the berries, used to relieve coughs and other respiratory ailments. • Myrtle oil is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial, astringent, soothing and sedative, healing, antioxidant, and an expectorant. Used in massage, myrtle oleate helps relieve muscle and joint pain, reduce inflammation and promote general relaxation. It is ideal for massage after intense exercise or in cases of chronic pain. • Skin Care: Can be applied directly to the skin to treat acne, irritations, wounds, scars and minor burns. Regular use helps to keep the skin toned, balanced and healthy. Adding a few tablespoons of myrtle oleate to bath water provides a relaxing and soothing effect, relieving tension and improving skin condition.
Marc Moll Marques was born in Ciutadella de Menorca. He is an environmental education guide, ethnobotanist, phytotherapist, floral therapist and forestry specialist. He has been teaching medicinal plant workshops in Menorca for many years and provides advice on gardening with native plants. He also advises on the cultivation of aromaticmedicinal plants native to Menorca for different farms on the island.
Use in cosmetics Myrtle is also valued in the cosmetics industry for its beneficial properties for skin and hair: • Shampoos and conditioners: Myrtle essential oil is added to hair products to strengthen hair and treat the scalp. • Creams: Products containing myrtle help revitalise the skin and treat problems such as acne and dermatitis. • Hydrolat is a facial toner used to balance the complexion, ideal for daily use. • Compresses: Applied to inflamed, irritated or injured areas to soothe and disinfect. • Use in steam inhalations: To relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory problems. Recipes using Myrtle Myrtle is used in Mediterranean cuisine to add flavour to various dishes: • Chicken with myrtle: Chicken marinated with myrtle leaves, garlic, lemon and olive oil, cooked in the oven. • Fish with myrtle: Fresh fish cooked with a mixture of myrtle leaves, white wine and olive oil. • Dressed olives: Olives cured with myrtle leaves, garlic and herbs. • In Menorca it has been used in custards and desserts. The dehydrated fruit is used in cakes and desserts, for breakfast with yoghurt. • Myrtle liqueur is made by macerating the ripe myrtle berries in alcohol, together with sugar and water. This liqueur, dark in colour and with a bitter-sweet taste, is enjoyed as a digestive. Mirto rosso made from the berries is a typical drink of Sardinia. ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
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JULY 2024
By Rachael Adams
Aolid
SEARCHING FOR
SEA SLUGS Simply put, sea slugs are molluscs or soft-bodied animals such as octopuses and clams. They belong to the gastropods, so have a large muscular foot like snails and land slugs. Like the ones in our gardens, they produce slime trails that help them glide across the substrate. Confusingly, slime-producing blennies are sometimes also called sea slugs. These small fish produce mucus to protect them from dehydration whilst slithering through rockpools. They have a single, long dorsal fin extending the length of their body.
Cratena peregrina
New sea slugs are being found all the time, and so the names and classifications are updated regularly. For this article, I’m going to talk about five different orders of slugs: sidegill slugs (Notaspidea), the sapsucking slugs (Sacoglossa) and the suborders Doridina and Aolidina which are the most numerous types of slugs called “nudibranchs”, and the ancient headshield slugs (Cephalaspidia). Slugs come in mostly bright colours that warn off predators, even though they can’t actually see how beautiful they are themselves because they only have light-sensitive pigment spots instead of eyes. Thus, many of the soft-bodied slugs are toxic to eat, whilst some have hard skin dotted with abrasive, glass-like spines for protection. Nudibranchs are perhaps the most well-known for their extraordinary colours and striking forms, and they have been given colourful nicknames such as “clown”, “marigold”, “dragon”, and “sea rabbit”. Sea slugs taste and smell their slow way around using a wide array of buccal palps and rhinophores, or stalks on their heads sensitive to vibrations. If a predator looms too close, the stalks are quickly retracted. To an extent, the latter can be used for identification. Curiously, though they are deaf, slugs do have otoliths, or the small bones in our ears that help with balance. So, they do have a sense of direction and know where is up and down. Handy when divers so easily waft them off their homes with their fins. Because these creatures are so small, it helps to take a magnifying glass on dives. Professional photographers use macro lenses to best capture the details. Search for the food and find the slugs
Felimare picta
The easiest way to find the tiny slugs is to home in on what they eat. Slugs are specialist feeders so generally only eat one thing. Some of the larger dorid sea slugs eat sponges. These are big, oval-shaped creatures and have gills on their backs forming a rosette around their anus. The spotted sea cow (Peltodoris atromaculata) for example, mostly eats Petrosia ficiformis, a purple sponge found in caves. Sometimes “bite marks” are visible on the sponge as the surface is a different colour to the inside. The best place to find sea cows is therefore just at the entrance to caves, like in Cala Morell or Pont den Gil. The walls in the channel that run alongside ‘submarine rock’ at Cala’n Forcat are another excellent spot for finding slugs, maybe because of the slight current. Aolid sea slugs have clusters or rows of respiratory organs known as cerata, extending down their backs making them look spiky. The cerata act much as human alveoli do in gas exchange: they’re so thin-walled that oxygen can diffuse straight through into the blood. The gut extends into the end of these translucent cerata, thus cerata colour changes depending on what’s been eaten. Some species store stinging cells (nematocysts) in the ends of their cerata for protection; when a predator attacks the sacs explode and sting whoever dares to bite it. These stinging cells are obtained from their food such as Eudendrium, which are filter feeders. They like to live where there’s some current and therefore, they can often be found sticking out of the sides of walls. They can be covered in purple sea slugs called flabellinas (Flabbelina affinins). Paraflabbelina ischitana and Edmunsella pedata look similar and so the magnifying glass is needed to differentiate the rhinophores. Amongst others, I’ve found Diaphorodoris alba, Diaphorodoris papillata, Berthella ocellata, and Platydoris argo near Cala’n Forcat. Further around the corner, deeper still, at the interface between the sand and rocks, I once found the odd-looking, round, pudding like Umbrella slug, Umbraculum umbraculum. This is a notaspidean, or side-gilled slug with feather-like gills. It was in around 20m of water and had a flat shell on top covered in algae to disguise itself. These unusually shaped nocturnal slugs bury themselves in the sand during the day. Further around the corner still, at the entrance to “Churchdoor” cave, I once spotted D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
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a group of small blue Felimare orsinii. These slugs ingest toxic compounds from their food, the Cacospongia mollior, and store them in their skin as a defence mechanism. Felimare picta, which at up to 20cm is our biggest sea slug, is also known warmly as the “elegant sea slug” harking back to its previous name, Hypselodoris elegans. These are common and due to their size, quite easily spotted, often on sunny ledges at “Tunnel vision” dive site. Sapsucking Slugs Some slugs live close to the surface because they eat photosynthetic algae so need plenty of light to get them to work. Their backs are flat and have rolled-up sides. They suck fluids out of algae and store the photosynthetic chloroplasts in their skin. In this way, the “sapsucking” slugs (Sacoglossa order) derive nutrients from both the algae they eat directly and from the photosynthetic activity of the algae they eat. The coloured pigment spots are visible to the naked eye. There are two species commonly seen in Menorca, Thuridilla hopeii and Elysia timida. They are detectable with a snorkel, once you know what they look like. Elysia timida has a characteristic green and mostly white back due to the chloroplasts stored from green algae ingested. These are very common and often found in groups and in mating “bundles”. They mainly feed on Acetabularia, Padina, and Codium. They’re very small, around 1cm long. Flat white spiral chains of their eggs can be found in shallow clear waters on algae-encrusted stones. Son Xoriguer is the perfect place to spot them. Thuridilla hopei is the only other sapsucking sea slug I’ve found so far, as many are very well camouflaged against seaweeds. This slug is bigger and less common that Elysia timida. It’s found from shallow ledges at the Clot de sa Cera and Cala Blanca to the wreck of the Malakoff, which lies in almost 40m of water. Its blue body has yellow and white stripes. This species is endemic to the Mediterranean Sea, is found on algae covered (mainly Cystoseira) rocks and eats green “slimy algae” like Cladophora. The blue colour warns predators of the poisonous acids this slug contains.
Orsoni
Look for the eggs
Aolid
Another way to detect sea slugs is by finding their egg ribbons. These are brightly coloured, flat, counter-clockwise spiral bands. In doridian slugs the ribbons are about 10cm across and often found on sponges. Aolids produce knotty little strings wrapped around the hydroids they feed on. The ones I’ve seen are orange, white, yellow, salmon and purple. These bright colours announce the toxic, caustic nature of the eggs. The adults are quite often recovering nearby. Slugs only live for about a year, and most slugs are simultaneous hermaphrodites, meaning they possess both male and female organs that are mature at the same time. In the perhaps not always so elegant sea slug, Felimare picta, both the penises and vaginas are thoughtfully and thoroughly lined with spines to ensure fertilisation in such a wooshy environment,. Aoilds are reported to stroke one another with their feelers, fight, bite and nuzzle! After chemically sniffing out their partners and mating each partner will lay eggs.
Felimare picta
In some cases, as in the little blue Felimare orsonii mentioned above, the young hatch out of the egg atop their sponge and get down to munching straight away. This is a safer survival mechanism because the fewer, stronger young are less exposed to predation. Most other species have a planktonic phase where the thousands of eggs float around for minutes to weeks until they detect a chemical signal from a suitable food source below, then settle on it. Headshield Slugs And last of all, I’ll mention the Cephalaspideans, or headshield slugs. Melanochlamys miqueli is the only one I’ve found so far. These are small, up to 2cm, and rare. The head forms a flattened shield, which is used as a plough for burrowing into sediment, and to protect the mantle from sand getting into it. They can also hide by quickly covering themselves in sand particles that stick to their mucus, perhaps making them harder to spot. Though they eat small molluscs and polychaetes, they seem to favour much the same habitat as Elysia timida, for they were found together at Son Xoriguer. For an up-to-date guide with excellent pictures see https:// opistobranquis.org/en/membres-connectar. Users can register all their sightings and learn from existing records at which depth and time of year each species is likely to be seen. Barcelona University’s dive club website explains the biology of each species; https://www.cibsub.cat/biofamilia_en-14_ molluscs_sea slugs-27757 Rachael is a Spanish/Catalan translator and environmental journalist found at rachaeladamsblog.live ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
Elysia timida
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NEW PROJECT TO PHOTO-ID AND TRACK
SPERM WHALES This June, the whale protection association Tursiops, with the support of Marina Port Mahón and Trasmapi, launched a new campaign in Menorca known as FotoID to track sperm whales using the capture-mark-recapture method (photo-identification). This method identifies whales and allows researchers to take photos of their fins in search of blemishes, scars and markings. These details are then carefully evaluated, meaning that recaptures can be identified, and the population monitored over the long term. The project will include a series of boat-based tracking campaigns to determine the whale population and habitat parameters. Acoustic techniques are used to detect the whales, based on clicks made by individuals. Once the whales have been located, images of their caudal fins are taken and subsequently studied for identifying marks. In the first week and with only two days of good weather, the team had already located two sperm whales, three pods of bottlenose dolphins, another pod of striped dolphins, and several loggerhead turtles. Marina Port Mahón and Trasmapi are supporting this initiative by offering a permanent berth to the Tursiops ship and her crew to help the research work and share a little bit more about this fascinating project. According to the project’s scientific director Dr Txema Brotons, “knowing that the Balearic Islands are a unique habitat for an animal like the sperm whale should give us the energy necessary to ensure its conservation”. D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
ART IN MENORCA
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MEN IN RCA ART
Albarrán Bourdais Menorca Felice Varini 06.07 —26.10.24
Albarrán Bourdais is opening its new gallery in Mahón, Menorca. Located in a mansion opposite the Teatre Principal de Maó, the space will open its doors with a major exhibition dedicated to Swiss artist, Felice Varini. The artist uses architectural and urban spaces such as streets, buildings, and public monuments as his canvas, both indoors and outdoors. He establishes a continuous dialogue between the site of creation and its perception and is celebrated as one of the pioneers in the study of geometry and colour. His style, developed in the late 1970s, is influenced by the site-specific creations of Daniel Buren and the large wall drawings of Sol LeWitt. Varini also uses photography to serve as a document—albeit partial—which remains available even after the event has ended. As Daniel Buren would say, these photos “bear witness to the appearance of the work in a specific situation”. Varini’s work is said to be an intense relationship with the theory of phenomenological perspective developed by philosopher Maurice MerleauPonty. Here, perception is not merely the specular image of things but vision suspended in movement, involving the active participation of the viewer. Felice Varini’s work is said to have such a strong impact on the viewer. You should experience an intensification of your awareness of existence in space. Varini asks us to “to endure uncertainty without a safety net, to not believe in the appearance of connecting lines even if they are etched in stone.” The exhibition opens on 6th July and we will be going along to experience it for ourselves. Eva Albarrán and Christian Bourdais The opening of this gallery is a continuation of the work started 20 years ago by Eva Albarrán and Christian Bourdais to bring contemporary art and architecture closer to society. By offering artists optimal opportunities for experimentation and exhibition, the aim is to enhance the viewer’s experience by showcasing contemporary art in spaces beyond the white cube. In 2004, Albarrán and Bourdais founded Eva Albarrán & Co, now renowned as one of the largest producers of contemporary art in France. Specialising in cultural engineering and the development of public art projects that merge heritage, urbanism, and contemporary art, the agency produces exhibitions both indoors in museums and outdoors, as well as large-scale art projects for public spaces. In 2010, Eva and Christian launched Solo Houses, Europe’s first architecture collection, inviting 12 internationally renowned studios to design vacation homes in dialogue with art and nature. Solo Houses is set in a spectacular natural environment spanning 200 hectares on the edge of the Puertos de Beceite Natural Park in Matarraña, Aragon. The Venta d’Aubert vineyard has been integrated into the project, and there is a biennial Solo Summer Group Show featuring an art tour around the site.
Nove piccoli dischi in uno grande rosso, Felice Varini, 2023 | Colección privada, Locarno.
In 2018 the Albarrán Bourdais gallery opened its doors in Madrid on Calle Barquillo 13, to showcase established contemporary artists with international acclaim. Finally, aiming to reach new audiences, in 2021, they opened a new branch of the gallery in Mahón, Menorca, featuring a major exhibition by Christian Boltanski. After several years of reforming the space while preserving its historical value, the gallery has now re-opened this summer with the goal of becoming a cultural landmark on the island. It will offer summer exhibitions featuring internationally renowned artists, to solidify its presence in Menorca’s cultural landscape.
Felice Varini
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WELLBEING
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JULY 2024
NUTRITION AND FITNESS WITH TOM AND JESS
FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN MENORCA Liz has asked if I’d write up a summary of things to do with kids on the island which has given me a perfect opportunity to do a roundup of our favourite places to go and handy tips which I hope will be a really helpful resource for everyone reading this, whether it be for your own kids, grandkids, friends’ little ones or nieces and nephews visiting. I’ve separated the suggestions into parks, water parks and other activities. Before I get into the specifics, here are some things I always have with me in the summer months which have become second nature to me and Tom living in Menorca, which you might not have thought of. Chilli food pot Great for storing chopped fruit or berries and keeping them cold. I put the chilli pot in the freezer with the lid off to bring the temperature of the pot down, and then add my sliced apple, cucumber, watermelon cubes, cherries, or whatever fruit/veg I’m packing and it keeps the contents cool and refreshing. If I’m storing something like banana bread or muffins and I want to keep them chilled, I’ll just put the chilli pot in
the freezer overnight vs the fridge so that I don’t get unwanted moisture in the snack, but for fruit/veg the moisture doesn’t matter. Chilli bottles We have a few chilli bottles that we’ve had for years so they’re a great investment, but we fill them with cold water and it keeps the water cold for the whole day which is so much more refreshing to drink, especially on the beach. Plastic bottles are best avoided anyway but particularly in the heat as BPA’s and other chemicals leach from the bottle into the water and we know these chemicals are detrimental to our health, particularly for our little ones. 100% avoid drinking from plastic bottles that have been kept in a hot car; I’d discard the water entirely and stick to insulated bottles. Ice lolly moulds Buy a set of ice lolly moulds and some wooden lolly sticks and fill them with shop-bought (no sugaradded) juice, or your own cold-pressed juice, or blended smoothie. Leave in the freezer overnight, and once frozen, transfer to a zip lock bag and store ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
in the freezer and repeat the process so you have a good freezer stash. Pineapple juice works great and is a popular favourite with my two, and it means you’ll have a much healthier, and cheaper, ice lolly to offer when at home and they fancy a lolly-fix. Beach umbrella and a big blanket Our beach umbrella lives in our car so it’s always available when we head to the beach and we have a big cotton blanket that’s in our permanently made-up beach bag. These two items mean we can spontaneously head to the beach and beach setup is so much quicker with one big family blanket. PARKS Parks and kids go hand-in-hand, they can never get enough swing time and it’s a great way for them to meet local kids and let off some steam! There are lots of parks in Menorca, but surprisingly few have shade! I’ve shared my top 3 favourites that we routinely go to in the summer months so you don’t pay a visit to one with a slide or set of swings that are molten lava in temperature, or a park that is overly exposed, especially if your kids aren’t used to the heat.
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Es Grau Beside the car park, next to the concrete basketball court, there’s a park which, depending on the time of day, has shade cover from the trees. There are two parks right next to one another, one is more geared for 1-2 year olds with a little slide on recently laid astroturf, and then there’s a bigger climbing frame, a set of swings and two slides on astroturf for slightly older kids. I take both girls there solo or arrange a playdate with another girlfriend and her kids and we take a picnic and have a lovely time there amongst the trees. You can get a juice from the juice bar in the car park and sip on liquid goodness whilst your little ones have a great time. Plaça de S’Esplanada, Es Castell In the square of Es Castell, surrounded by local cafés, there’s a great park with plenty of shade thanks to the sails that have been put up. There are 4 swings in total, 3 slides, a floor-sprung trampoline, as well as climbing frames. I love people watching here, there’s often a fiesta of some sort or an event for the local community, so there might be music, chess playing, or just people enjoying a café con leche at one of the cafés. As well as the park in the square itself, there’s also a park right next to the Barcelo Hamilton hotel, which has stunning views of the harbour mouth. The park is astroturfed so it’s wonderful for tottering humans, but there’s no shade cover so it’s one for an overcast day or first thing in the morning or late afternoon. Moll de Llevant, Port Mahon Next to the Maritime Station, there’s a pirate ship-themed park that opened up in 2022/23. You can usually find a parking space nearby so you don’t have to walk too far, especially in the heat. It’s always clean, has slight shade cover from the trees depending what time of day you visit and it has a forgiving floor. It also has a lovely view - you can watch ferries and boats sail by whilst pushing your kids on the swings, and there are coffee shops directly in front of the park for an easy local coffee.
JULY 2024
WATER PARKS Splash In the south of the island in Biniancolla near Punta Prima and Binibeca resorts. This is our favourite! There’s a great range of slides for all ages, shallow areas for little ones and free sun loungers and parasols. Under-3s free. 18.50€ child (3-11), 26.50€ adults (12+). Residents discount available (14€ kids, 19.50€ adults) if you show your proof of residence at the ticket office and there are discounted bulk ticket options available as well if you know you’re going to be making repeat visits. Opens 1st May. @splashsurmenorca W: https://www.splashsurmenorca.com/ Carema Splash Park Playa de Fornells/Cala Tirant on the north coast. This is a brilliant one for under-10s - there’s a shallow pool, 6 covered slides, 3 slides with individual rubber rings and it has beautiful views of the bay. Under-2s free. 16€ child (3-12), 20€ adults (13+). You can buy tickets online and there are Residency discounts (12€ child, 15€ adults), so bring proof or residence if booking a resident ticket. Opens 1st May. @caremahotelsmenorca https://www.caremahotels.com/en/ Aqua Centre West coast near Ciutadella in Los Delfines near Cala en Blanes. A good size water park with open slides and a tunnel-like slide, and a shallow area for little ones Under-2s free. 15€ child (3-11), 25€ adults (12+). Opens 1st May. @aquacentermenorca W: http://www.aquacenter-menorca.com/ Aquarock Cala en Bosch on south west coast. A fun park with a wave pool, range of slides and jacuzzi!
Carrer de La Mar, Fornells This isn’t one we go to often, just because it’s further away from where we live, but on the Fornells promenade this sweet park overlooks the harbour. It doesn’t have shade cover so pick wisely the time of day you visit, but just a short walk away there’s a local ice cream shop where you can choose your flavour of ice cream scoop for you and your little ones, and then enjoy a walk along the promenade with your ice cream in hand. We often dip our feet into the stone beaches and throw stones into the water or walk along to the castell/ruin and the kids have a run around there.
Under-2s Free. 15.50€ child (3-11), 23.50€ adults (12+), 22.50€ seniors (65+). There are residency discounts (11€ child, 17€ adults, 14.50€ senior adults), so bring proof of residence if booking a resident ticket. There is a 1€ discount when booking online. Opens 7th May @aquarockmenorca W: https://aquarock-menorca.com/es/
Here are some other good parks to have on your radar: 1. Plaça Bastio, Mahon (in front of Pipet Café, and just a short walk from Pigalle bakery). It’s small and there are no swings, but there’s a wooden fence around it so you can enjoy a coffee whilst watching your kids enjoy a run around knowing they’re penned in. 2. Plaça des Pins, Ciutadella. 3. Punta Prima (behind the beach on Carrer des Mestral). This has been newly refreshed and has a cable swing, two sets of swings (one in the little park and one in the bigger kids’ park), and slides of different heights. 4. Cala Galdana (Next to Tobogán restaurant which has water slides). 5. Plaça de S’Esplanada, Mahon. This is a good one to go to on market days or if you’re at that end of town. 6. Plaça del Pare Camps, Es Mercadal. Nicely shaded and a good one if you’re Mercadal-way. 7. Passeig Maritim, in front of Port Mahon hotel. Stunning views of the harbour and it’s always so quiet, a hidden gem in the world of park gems! D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
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BEACHES Cala Galdana One of our favourite go-to beaches is Cala Galdana, mainly because there is great shade cover under the pine trees which, with little ones, is so much more enjoyable. There are toilets, a cafe for an ice cream or cold drink, and you can drive fairly close to the beach and unload the kids, beach bags and an adult, while the other adult goes and finds the nearest parking spot available. You can rent pedalos and the water is lovely, though not as shallow and still as Es Grau for example, but as long as your kids can swim or they’re wearing arm bands and watched, it’s great. Es Grau This is such a great beach for families. The water is really shallow and it’s always still, perfect for little ones who need to gain some water confidence or are learning to swim as the shallowness means as a parent you don’t need to worry about them being out of their depth, so it’s one of the beaches I take the girls to by myself, as I feel comfortable with the water there. You can rent kayaks from ‘Menorca en Kayak’ which used to be on the beach, but they’re now situated one road back from the beach. Take an umbrella as there isn’t any shade! There’s a juice bar in the car park which makes for a healthily refreshing pre or post-beach pitstop; it’s a great way to get fruit and veg into their bodies and they’ll customise a juice if your little ones want to create their own. You can have your juice to take away or you can enjoy it there on the sofas whilst playing Connect 4! I’ve yet to enjoy my own juice without little hands snaffling my straw and sipping my juice at lightning speed! Alcaufar Another family favourite, it’s always quiet and the water is stunning. There are rock pools so it’s great for crabbing, perhaps bring rock shoes if you have any for the kids so they can walk along the rocks and see if they can spot any interesting fish or crabs. The Xuroy restaurant has the perfect location with steps down to the beach, which means you can enjoy a lunch or get a coffee or an ice cream whilst overlooking the water and watching your little ones make sandcastles on the beach. To book a table, call the restaurant directly on (+34) 971 15 18 20. The food there has really escalated in price over recent years, but where hasn’t. Just be careful when choosing the fish of the day or any fish/seafood that doesn’t have a price attached to it because we’ve had a couple of shocking bills, and know of people who had the same experience, so just know what you’re getting yourself in for price-wise. Below is a list of beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire. You can expect to pay between €20 to €25 for two beds and a parasol. • Santo Tomas • Son Bou • Punta Prima • Binibeca Beach • Cala en Porter • Arenal d’en Castell • Arenal d Son Saura (Son Parc) • Cala Tirant/Playa de Fornells • Cala Galdana • Cala en Bosch • Son Xoriguer • Cala Blanca • Cala Santandria • Sa Caleta
The Zoo / Lloc @llocdemenorcazoo https://www.llocdemenorca.com/ I’m finishing with our all-time favourite family island activity. We go at least twice a month, if not more, but even if you don’t have kids and you like animals and landscaping, it’s well worth a visit. Bring some 1€ coins so you can buy some goat feed and feed the goats, they’re always keen to eat! Be careful if you’re wearing a floaty skirt or a dress, or your little ones have baggy t-shirts or dresses on as they like to nibble clothes too so don’t wear anything you’d be sad to have a goat munch on, or just keep an eye on the goats if you go into the goat enclosure! I’ve had a couple of skirt casualties over recent visits! There are two areas with picnic benches, one next to the goats, and another one near the water sprinklers, so if you take a picnic or snacks, you can healthily feed your kids in the shade and there are toilets right next to the picnic benches in both areas to wash their hands before/after or go to the loo without having to walk back up to the reception toilets. You can ‘milk’ the life-size plastic cow, pop yourself into the birds’ eggs for a ‘just been hatched’ photo and have a wander through the zoo checking out the black pigs, the peacocks and the lemurs hopping from tree to tree. At midday there’s a reptile meet-and-greet so if you’re into snakes or your little ones are curious, you can have a snake placed around your neck or stroke the blue-tongued other reptiles; the reptile keepers are lovely and very knowledgeable. Beside the reptile display is an enclosure full of lop-eared rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises, and there are a couple of muntjacs in there too, all happily bouncing around. Take swimming gear for the kids as there’s an area with sprinklers they can run about in that is perfect for kids of all ages. There’s a big trampoline and a small soft play area by the café which is a great way to get the kids away from the animals or sprinklers and closer to the exit while you enjoy a caffeine pick-me-up or a cooling ice cream to end the zoo trip. July and August - everyday from 10h - 19h September and October - everyday from 10h - 18h November > March - closed April - reopens around Easter-time, from 10h - 18h Tuesdays to Sundays (closed Mondays) May and June - everyday from 10h - 18h
LunaFit
Under-3s free. 9.50€ kids aged 3-12, 15.50€ adult, 9.50€ seniors aged 65+. Family and individual annual passes available for 99€ (2 adults and 2 kids). If you’re planning on going more than twice in a 12-month period, I’d definitely get the annual pass as you’ll be quids-in, and it means you can pop in for any amount of time, even if just for a cool down in the water sprinklers, a bounce on the trampoline or to enjoy a picnic by the goats without feeling you need to get your money’s worth by staying for half a day.
@lunafly_menorca W: https://www.lunafitlife.com/
There we go! My round up of a few fun and healthy things to do with kids on the island.
In the heart of Mahon, this studio offers brilliant classes for little ones (aged 2-4) right the way through to teenagers (10-15) and in-between (4-10). If your kids have an adventurous spirit and they love climbing, dancing, tumbling or hanging upside down, this studio - and Siobhan and her partner Janek - is definitely for you. They offer kids yoga, aerial classes, acrobatics, obstacle courses, circus skills and climbing so it’s ideal if you’d like to keep your kids entertained and having fun, without being in the heat.
I hope it’s helpful! I’ll be writing a more nutrition-focused article next month with a couple of really simple, yet incredibly delicious recipes and dressings, so I’m looking forward to sharing those with you soon.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
You can rent the space out privately for birthday parties or for private hire for a really reasonable price, so if the kids’ classes are paused over the summer and you’d like to enquire about hiring it out independently, then drop Siobhan a message.
Happy exploring, Jess Nutrition Support - Personal Training - Qi Gong - Yoga - Island Hikes Cooking Workshops www.TheOnlineNutritionClinic.com www.jessntom.com
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PAIN IN THE NECK! It is a practice that has existed for thousands of years. As you may know, I am a Qi Gong teacher. Qi Gong is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, as is Acupuncture/Acupressure. They both work on keeping your lines of energy (Qi) open and flowing. When a line is blocked, and the energy stagnates, problems can occur. In this case, there is an acupuncture point called “Luo Zhen”, which translates as “fall off the pillow”, which is apt. This is the switch to potentially turn off the pain in the neck/shoulder. The point is found on the back of the hand between the two bones in the depression, just past the knuckles of the pointer and middle finger. You should locate the point on the opposite side of your pain. For example, if the right side of your neck is stiff, find the point on your left hand. Personally, I find it best to perform a little mobility test before applying the pressure to see if things work. Side Look Test - Sit straight in a chair, shoulders relaxed by your sides. Take a deep breath into the belly. Slowly turn your head to the left while releasing the breath. Take a mental note of what you can see at the furthest point to the side. Breathe back in while returning the head to the centre. Repeat on the other side. Note down what you saw if it helps, as this is not a memory test! NOTE - Do not force anything, just feel into this and don’t do more damage. Once the Luo Zhen point is located, apply gentle pressure until a slight tenderness is felt. Holding that pressure, stimulate the point by making small circles with your pressing finger. At the same time as holding the pressure, exercise your neck by rotating your head from side to side. You should slowly notice an increased range of motion and decreased pain. Repeat the Side Look Test. Any changes? Remember those deep breaths. By the end of reading this article, you’re going to gain a free and natural solution to an age-old problem − a sore neck. What’s great about this solution is that it requires no equipment, and you’ll more than likely feel the pain-relieving effects in under a minute when you put this technique into action. I can’t believe how effective the technique is and how under-spoken about it is and how few people know about it, so from today onwards, you’ll be in the know too. Summer is setting in, which equates to hot days and hot nights. When we read the research on the best conditions for optimal sleep, a cold bedroom is one of the top sleep hygiene recommendations to promote a good night’s sleep. In the age of air conditioning, we are blessed to be able to cool a room down before bedtime and keep it cool throughout the night.
It took me a couple of minutes, and I could notice the difference. It may take longer for other people, so keep persisting! You can do this acupressure throughout the day. Alternatively, you may be like me and prefer to watch a video on how this works? If that is the case, scan the QR code on this page or alternatively carefully enter https://vimeo.com/jessntom/shoulder into your browser. I recorded this over three years ago, and it has helped many people. I hope you find it useful or can share it if you hear someone has a similar issue.
I wish I could say that the air conditioning goes off once I am in bed, but it seems I am conditioned by the air conditioning to keep it on to avoid waking in a sweat and thus having a restless night. One negative downfall that can accompany the use of AC, is a sore neck. Depending on where the AC unit is positioned, it will blow air on you for hours, causing you to wake up with, you guessed it − a sore neck. Prevention is the best cure in all cases. If you must have the AC on, try moving your sleeping position away from any direct ‘air’ contact. If that is not possible, you could change the position of the blades so that the air is directed higher (which is easy to do on most units). Naturally, sore necks are caused by many things, though, such as working on computers, stress, using phones, a fall, exercise, water parks with the kids (see Jess’s article), a combination of the above, or something seemingly harmless. The AC can be the straw that broke the camel’s back (neck). So here is a solution. Acupressure is related to acupuncture. No needles, just using pressure from your fingers to specific points on the body to trigger a positive reaction elsewhere in the body.
One last thing. How is your posture? How are you sitting right now? Upright or hunched? Qi Gong is a great remedy for posture and improves energy, mobility, and mood. Please email me to find out when the next session near you or online will be: tom@qigongwithtom.com Tom Personal Training - Nutrition Support - Qi Gong - Yoga - Island Hikes Cooking Workshops www.jessntom.com
D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
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DANCE THERAPY Expressive Movement
Dance to release tensions, relax the mind-body and reconnect with wellbeing. What is Dance therapy? Dance therapy is an experience for which it is not necessary to know how to dance, nor have any previous knowledge of movement. You connect with your body through conscious breathing, full presence, active meditation, sensitive movement and the expression of your being. Anyone can practise Dance therapy, regardless of their age and physical condition as it can be done standing or sitting. In her sessions, Belén creates a non-judgemental setting where the mind can relax, and you can just enjoy the well-being. During the sessions, the movements of your physical body blends with the movements of your emotional body. In Dance therapy there are no pre-established forms; rather each person moves freely, flowing according to what they feel as they listen to the music and as Belén makes suggestions or offers sensorial stimulation. There is no right or wrong way, each person searches for their own free expression. Belén, as Dance therapist, accompanies the experience and guides the participants in their creative journey, using her voice and corporal examples. Lessons can be given in English, French or Spanish. We live our lives mostly in a very mental framework and this disconnects us from our body and our sensations. Dance therapy allows us to reconnect with our bodies by abandoning ourselves to the music, awakening our senses, relaxing our nerves, acknowledging the pleasure and freedom of expression of our inner world. Dance therapy in Menorca Belén holds classes every Thursday at the Son Blanc Farmhouse, and also offers private sessions for groups, couples or individuals at their homes or in Nature. Menorca is a natural Paradise which incites us to reconnect with calmness, relaxation and beauty. Dance therapy offers us the possibility of feeling all of this in our bodies through kind and liberating movement which reconnects us to our own interior nature. About Belén Belén Cervantes is Spanish and has lived in Menorca since 2018. Previously she lived in Argentina for four years, where she trained to become a Dance Therapist as a postgraduate in Dance Movement Therapy at the National University of Art in the city of Buenos Aires and following Maria Fux’s method of creative and expressive dance. Contact If you want to know more about Belén or her work you can visit her website: www.belencervantes.com or on instagram: @proyectosentirse Belén Cervantes Danzaterapia belencervantes.danzaterapia@gmail.com Tel: +34 688285647 photos by : Xavi Marques Triay Fernando T. de la Rocha ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
LOCAL NEWS
CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS
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JULY 2024
NEWS
LADIES LUNCHEON CLUB A sunny June day to welcome us back to the Hotel Agaménon, and a good number of ladies enjoyed the spectacular view of the Isla del Rey. Elizabeth really has a knack of choosing appropriate raffle prizes themed to the summer or the beach. I saw what I thought a winter prize but it turned out to be a picnic blanket, also a fan with a smart leather case and the usual wine and plants which always are popular. Our scheduled speaker was unable to come and Margaret Duncan nobly stepped in with only two days notice. Margaret and her husband Ian have owned various holiday homes on the island and their latest one is in Punta Prima where they will enjoy family holidays. Margaret is an expert of tracing peoples past. So much so that she is consulted by solicitors when searching for relatives when there is an inheritance. When she started there were not many companies doing this, but now there are more. It sounds fascinating and her business will expand as her daughter Kate will be joining her and Margaret will just concentrate on research. ladiesluncheonclubofmenorca@hotmail.com
Age Concern C Menorca M iis run almost l t completely l t by volunteers. We rely on the goodwill of our volunteers to man the shop, help with collections, run the medical equipment loan service, organise our social activities and work with our Lifeline confidential help service. Of course, we also rely on you to help us to be able to run our services through the goods and money you donate to us and the purchases you make in our wonderful shop. We are proud of the low-cost, high-quality goods we have to offer and thank you for all you do to help us. Jenny and Penny are two of our many volunteers. They have been friends for many years and now work together in the store at the back of the shop every Tuesday morning. Here they tell us a little about themselves, why they came to Menorca and what they enjoy about working in the shop.
Jenny and her husband, Shaun, lived in the Caribbean for 10 years but came here about 30 years ago to be nearer to Shaun’s parents who were already living here. When they arrived in Menorca they decided to remodel
a farmhouse in San Climent and turned in into a 12 bedroom hotel. After selling it they moved on to do other things. Jenny, a recognised ‘fashionista’, was a regular shopper in the Age Concern shop and our previous shop manager, Carol, suggested to her that, as she spent so much time in the shop, she ought to become a volunteer…… which she did! Penny and her husband, Paul, started coming to Menorca for family holidays in the 1980s, along with Paul’s brother’s family. They all loved it here and came together every year. Paul’s brother, John and his wife Lynn, moved to Menorca over 20 years ago and within a few years Penny and Paul decided to move to Menorca too. Penny worked as a Villa Representative for a number of different companies for about 14 years then decided to retire. She was interested in joining as a shop volunteer but finally made up her mind to join us when Jenny’s husband, Shaun, volunteered her to work alongside Jenny. The rest is history! Both Penny and Jenny say the same things about working in the shop. They love meeting people of all ages and nationalities, seeing what they donate and appreciating how other people can then make use of the donations. Seeing things get a new lease of life and knowing you are helping other people is something they feel passionate about. They love the atmosphere in the shop, helping customers and being part of a happy team, well supported by our fantastic manager, Lee. If you are interested in joining our merry band of volunteers please contact the shop. If you think you would like to help with our Lifeline service (translators always needed!) please contact Carol, our Lifeline coordinator. Social Activities Our two lunches on the first and third Thirsday of each month are proving to be very successful and well attended. Visitors and guests as well as members are welcome . Fish n Chip lunch Bar Pons, Thursday June 6th, 1.00 for 1.30pm Please contact Sandy on 650 729 430 Menu del Dia Can Avelino, Thursday June 20th, 1.30 pm Please contact Chris on 669 949 370
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Drop In Centres Feel free to just ‘drop in’, chat and make new friends at our two centres: Es Castell ‘Drop in’ at the Jubilado Centre on the Esplanada every Monday morning between about 10.30 and 12.00. Cala en Porter ‘Drop in’ at Bar Pons, currently on every Tuesday morning between about 10.30 and 12.00. Trip to Cala Blanca, Ciutadella and Truvi: We hope to be running this popular trip in June. Transport is free for members. Please check with Christine on 669 949 370 Membership You can become a Member of Age Concern by paying 12 to our Membership Secretary, Shelley, either at a lunch or in the shop or by bank transfer if you wish. You can also donate through the DONATE page on our website. Apart from the importance of offering your support to our organisation you also get a discount on the lunches you attend! Ways we can help you Please remember our confidential Lifeline service to help with individual problems, information, and help with translation etc. Our Medical Equipment Loan service is available for everyone either living on the island or just visiting. We require a deposit (returnable) and, though there no fee, we ask for a donation when the equipment is returned. Whenever possible we will deliver to you. Appointments essential! Information and Contact Numbers Confidential Lifeline service to help with individual problems and information lifelineminac@gmail. com +34 676 904 487. Medical Equipment Loan service acmenorcamedequip@ gmail.com +34 629 016 307 Shop: menorca@ageconcern.org.es 971 156 110 Manager: 636 347 286 Opening hours: Monday – Saturday, 9.45 – 13.15. For the latest information and current offers follow us on Facebook: Age Concern Menorca 2015 or visit our website www.ageconcernmenorca.com
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MENORCA’S OLD VEHICLES By Graham Capel
If you had come to Menorca in the 1960s or even earlier, it was like stepping back in time. Many of the roads in the countryside and villages were still not made up. The road to Cala en Porter where we came to build and run the infamous Goldeneye Water Sports Club with Ian Warren in 1966, stopped at Sant Climent, and it was a dirt track from then. Even in Cala en Porter, kerbs and pavements did not appear until the late 1980s or even the 1990s. The transport was reasonably modern but the remnants of times gone by were still very apparent. There were old cars literally dumped in some of the fields and back streets. When I say ‘old’ cars, many of these were pre-Civil War in Spanish terms and in many cases 1920s/30s cars which were just becoming Classic cars in England. OUTSIDE FORNELLS 1966 THE SANT LLUIS SCRAPYARD 1989
Just outside Fornells, on the unmade road, was a 1920s Model T Ford Taxi, abandoned on the left hand side. It even had an outside ladder to put suitcases on the roof! In Mahon, on the port opposite the Estacion Maritime on the sloping road where all the night clubs are now, a 1917/18 Open Tourer Fiat was permanently parked. On the road to Sant Lluis, on the left-hand side in two open fields, was a dump of old cars, lorries and even a road roller, all abandoned waiting for the scrap man. I had a 1922 Citroen in England and I regularly found parts for this amongst the wrecks here. This remained until at least the 1990s.
THE MERCADAL ROAD GRADER
On the road from the new Airport roundabout with its pinnacle pointing skyward, going to the Mahon-Ciutadella main road, on the right were some caves. They are probably still there – caves don’t usually disappear! Parked in the caves were at least half a dozen single deck buses dating back to the 1930/40s, obviously taken out of service but not scrapped or exported. They looked in reasonable condition as if they could be re-used. They are long gone now. The reason for this accumulation of old vehicles/machinery on the island in the 1950/60s, was twofold. In the Spanish Civil War, Menorca was the last part of Spain to surrender to Generalissimo Franco. The result was that Menorca received very little money from the Franco regime, which meant that the island had to make do with a lot of existing machinery. This was, of course, 1920/30s cars, trucks, lorries and buses, etc. The other reason was the relative isolation of Menorca from a shipping point of view. To load the old buses, or the heavy road rollers from the field at Sant Lluis would involve considerable difficulty in getting these rusting hulks to the port; then finding a ship to transport them to Barcelona; and then to a scrap yard there for recycling. In those days there were no drive-on ferries. When I brought my American Ford Mustang to the island in 1969, it had to be craned on board the ‘Transmed’ boat in Barcelona and craned off in Mahon. Imagine trying to crane on the weighty rusted road roller from Sant Lluis! When the field was cleared in the 1990s there were specialised ships, modern trucks, lorries with cranes, and scrap metal was worth a lot more. Quite a lot of Brits living in Menorca in the 1960s bought some of these old cars and continued to drive them. Richard Smith, who was one of the first to start a company building swimming pools in Cala en Porter in the 1960s, had a lovely 1920s Renault Saloon which he used to drive to work every day.
PEDRO PAROT’S BUGATTI WITH ME BEHIND THE WHEEL
Pedro Parot, who had a garage in Alaior, had a 1920s racing Type 57 Bugatti which he used to drive around the stone-walled country lanes at terrifying speeds. He brought it to Cala en Porter one day so I could have a sit-in. Here is a picture of it, taken with my Box Brownie camera,
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on the land beside Casa Ariba on the cliff top (now built on) at Cala en Porter. I did get to drive it, but it was fitted with a Fiat engine and gearbox. Pedro was asking £125 for it, which was a lot of money in the 1960s. I had £50 and borrowed £25 from Jim Maps and another £25 from ‘big Juan’. Of course, this was in Pesetas then. Whilst I can’t remember how many thousands that was, the car today is probably worth in £s what it was in Pesetas then! However, when I made the offer to Pedro, he had already sold it to a Frenchman. I consoled myself with the thought of the Fiat engine and gearbox, until he told me that he had the original engine and gearbox which he had sold with the car as they were too powerful for use on the Menorcan roads! Devastation! The car ended up in the Schlumpf Collection in France.
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In the last 5 years there was an old Fiat (I think) 4-seat tourer lying abandoned on a plot of land in the Es Castell Industrial Estate. It had been there for years, derelict and forgotten. It disappeared a few years ago when the plot was built on. I wonder where that is now?
You must have seen the old road grader on the roundabout at Mercadal? The story I heard back in the 1960s, was that it was the only one in Menorca. When Cala en Porter was first being developed in 1960/2 it had been driven from its home in Ciutadella, taking 3 days. It had graded the roads for the Gale Development of ‘houses from £500’ on the right side of the road going into Cala en Porter. It had then begun its journey back to Ciutadella, but had broken down at Mercadel where it was abandoned until it was painted and placed on the roundabout where it still is today. True or false, but that was the story then?
By Julian Hagger Club Captain
With the season in full swing the fixtures in June came thick and fast, with the club hosting matches on all 5 weekends of the month. First up was the the turn of The Binmen, not a team full of refuse collectors as the name might suggest but more to do with the location of where the team were staying. On Saturday the home team won the toss and decided to bat first building a big score of 253-5 off a slightly reduced 35 overs. This was thanks to another half century (51) from George Wade-Smith and a typically brutal 50 off 22 balls from Adam Cockcroft. In reply the opposition battled enthusiastically but were all out for 120, Adam Cockroft capping off a fine performance with 3-19 and a catch as well. Sunday produced a closer game and the home team did well to restrict them to 158-6 from 30 overs, Dan Sullivan taking 4-19 off just 3 overs. Contributions from all batters especially 38 from Luke Sainsbury got the home team over the line with 15 balls to spare to take a double winning weekend. The second weekend of June saw the return of Sands End Swordsmen as the two sides contested the Swordsmen Shield. 66 from Joe Brayne, a third consecutive 50 from George Wade-Smith and a welcome return to form for skipper Julian Hagger (51) gave Menorca a very competitive 225-3. Despite 76 from Joe Reid, the talented batting line up weren’t allowed to fire against the excellent bowling of Nick Roussel 2-30, Grant Wilson 2-22 and Julian Hagger who picked up 4-14 guiding Menorca to a comfortable 82 run victory to retain the shield. The Swordsmen would take their revenge on Sunday as captain Will Hodge notched up 100 not out off the final ball of the innings leading his side to 194-6, two wickets apiece for Wilson, Johnson and Sainsbury. Despite an opening stand of 78 from Andy Tyose and Emanuel Day, wickets fell at regular intervals as the home team stuttered to 147 all out, the opposition bowlers enjoying their day in the sun with Reid, Hilliard and Hodge all taking 3 wickets each.
OLD CITROEN IN DAILY USE 1966
dutifully did. Simon Cotton rolled back the years to score 54, Julian Hagger 53 and Adam Cockroft with another hard hitting 47 were the main contributors in a total of 285-7. D Hiscocks held The Goatees innings together with 57 but couldn’t find enough partnerships to really trouble the home team with Cotton and Hagger putting in fine all round performances each taking 3 wickets in reply to register a 68 run win. The Sunday game saw a very close finish in a game they would have felt they should have won after reducing The Goatees to 84-3 at the 20 over mark but a terrific 100 run partnership between J Hill (50) and J Hill (52) meant the home team were probably chasing a few more than they should have been but at 141-2 in response they looked favourites to get up. The loss of a few quick wickets eventually proved the difference despite a swashbuckling 42 from Grant Wilson. The game against Sutton Coldfield is always a poignant one as we pay tribute to former opposition captain Andy Biddle who sadly passed away on the field 6 years ago. The Andy Biddle Cup is a keenly fought affair and was dominated by the two bowling attacks. Sutton bowled Menorca out for 161, with Matt Sullivan and Simon Cotton involved in an important middle order partnership of nearly 50 runs. Not to be outdone however, the home attack really fired with only R. Beamish offering any resistance with 55 out of his sides 77 all out, Grant Wilson being the destroyer in chief with 3-23. Sunday would see the home team miss out on a win by another narrow margin of 23 runs, R. Beamish being the difference between the two teams racking up 88 from 56 balls while Adam Cockroft top scored in reply with 50. We do have one further weekend in June but deadlines are deadlines so will include this in the next edition. Our thoughts now turn to our extremely popular ‘Summer Cricket’ sessions which are held on Wednesday and Saturdays at the ground from 13th July. These are open to anyone who wants to play a fun game of cricket whilst they are here on holiday or for those wanting to try cricket for the first time.
The Goatees CC followed and with confidence running high now in the home team another opportunity came to put a big score on the board which they ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
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TIPS FOR A WORRY-FREE SUMMER WITH YOUR PET IN MENORCA by ROQUETA’s VET Caroline Langlois
Phone or WhatsApp: +34 685753292 Email: vetmenorca@gmail.com C/Santa Victoria 30, 07701 Mahon
Summer, while pleasant for us, is not always an easy season for our four-legged friends. Find out all about the dangers of summer so that you can prevent them and protect your pet during the warm days! Here are a few recommendations for a worry-free summer. Beware of heat Summer is here and with it, the scorching temperatures. While the sun has its virtues and warms our hearts, it can also have concerning consequences for our pets. Here are a few tips to help them enjoy a peaceful summer and avoid heatstrokes.
to buy a small basin for them. To keep the house cool, close the shutters. Beware of tilt-and-turn windows, which can be a real danger to your cat. They often try to use it to come and go as they please, but they don’t always manage to get through the opening. It’s not unusual for cats to find themselves trapped, with their bodies stuck in the window, and they can be very seriously injured. You can also leave your bathrooms open: your cat will appreciate the coolness of the tiles. There are also cooling mats that work without electricity for your cat or dog.
1) Adopt good walking habits During hot spells, you should limit your pet’s physical activity. Cats, which are calmer by nature, will rest without too much difficulty but dogs, which are more active, need to be spared to avoid heatstroke. They should only be taken out early in the morning and late in the evening, at the coolest times of the day. Avoid asphalt, which retains heat, transmits it to the animal and can even cause burns to the paw pads. Check the temperature of the ground: if your hand can’t stand the heat of the tarmac, your dog’s paws won’t either. Favour cooler, shady or wooded areas and provide fresh water. Watch out for UV rays: some animals with short hair, pink skin or white coat can be sensitive to sunburn, and as in humans, repeated irritation can cause skin cancer. Ask your vet which product is best suited to protecting your pet’s skin, as human sun creams can be dangerous for them. In cardiac dogs, heat can suddenly aggravate their condition. This generally takes the form of pulmonary oedema: the dog is out of breath, coughs more and breathes poorly. So, take extra care when going out in the heat. And remember, in the end, it’s better to avoid going out if it’s too hard for your pet to bear. 2) Keep your pet hydrated and fresh Always carry water with you when you go out, even in the car. There are water bottles specially designed for dogs that are easy to carry. Don’t hesitate to water your pet during summer. At home, wet its extremities and head with damp towels or a washcloth. You can also use a spray bottle, although your cat may not like it. Some dogs love to dip in a small pool, so don’t hesitate
3) Don’t leave your dog in your car You should never leave your pet in a vehicle in summer, even with the window open. The temperature inside a car in direct sunlight can quickly rise to extreme levels. Don’t leave your pet in the car for even two minutes, as this could be fatal. 4) Think about grooming It’s a bad idea to strip your pet of all its fur to keep it cool. Dogs have several layers of hair. The first, called the “undercoat”, is closest to the skin. It traps air and insulates the dog. As a thermoregulator, the undercoat is warm in winter and cool in summer. The second layer of hair, called the “topcoat”, protects against the sun’s harmful rays, bad weather and parasites. It is therefore possible to
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simply refresh its coat, brushing it carefully to remove dead hairs, or to shorten the coat, but it should never be clipped. Even if you take all these precautions, your pet could still suffer heatstroke. This is a state of extreme hyperthermia that occurs when the heat produced by the body or environmental conditions can no longer be dissipated. Body temperature becomes so high that vital organs suffer, which can lead to death. In the event of persistent panting, very rapid breathing and extreme tiredness, remember to moisten his coat and put him in the shade. Remember to take its temperature: if it’s over 40 degrees and/or if the situation deteriorates, quickly call veterinary emergency services, as this is a vital emergency.
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ENFUSION CHOIR By Elaine Martin, Secretary
Here’s a photo of EnFusion Choir taken outside the Aero Club prior to the second performance of the two summer ‘24 concerts which took place on 7 and 8 June. Both nights were very successful and our audiences participated enthusiastically joining in with songs from yesteryear. The concert raffles raised a total of €825 in aid of Trebaluger Equine Centre which would be handed over in the near future. Our ‘One Night Only’ concert will take place on 31 August after the great success of our first concert last year. The choir is proud to be associated with the Carlos Mir centre to where all Raffle proceeds from the night will be donated.
Beware of parasites Parasites are most numerous in summer. Fleas and ticks proliferate at this time of year. Get into the habit of checking your pet’s coat after your walks, especially if you’ve been in a forest or an area with tall grass. Also watch out for mosquitoes and especially phlebotomus, which transmit leishmaniosis. Feel free to reread my article in the last August issue, in which I talk in detail about this disease and how to prevent it. There are a number of preventive treatments available for fleas, ticks and mosquitoes: tablets, spot-on or necklaces. Ask your vet for advice on the most suitable product for your pet. The risks of bathing and open air Seawater can be very irritating for our pets’ fragile skin and can cause dermatologic problems, such as: Otitis: for dogs with hanging ears, it is very important to clean and dry the inside of the ear thoroughly after swimming. As the ears are folded in on themselves, the moisture creates an ideal environment for ear infections.
LADIES PROBUS Lunch was held at El Grill and as the weather was fine we sat outside. 26 members enjoyed a lovely lunch with a varied choice of three courses. Our president Mrs Janet Quayle welcome a new member and also gave out birthday cards.
Hot spot: Moisture in the hair can lead to dermatitis. You’ll probably be able to tell by the stench the wound gives off. Pododermatitis (infection of the toes): the irritating action of the grains of sand and salt between the toes can lead to very painful infection. If you want to give your dog a sea bath, I strongly recommend that you rinse it off with fresh water afterwards, taking care to remove the sand between the fingers and to dry him thoroughly. Always keep an eye on your pet when it is in or near water. Even a good swimmer can struggle to get out of a pool or become trapped by ropes, seaweed or other obstacles. For water sports or boat trips, consider buying a dog life jacket. It could be an excellent investment in your dog’s safety! The great outdoors (wind, sand) can also cause conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers: the eye is red, watery and painful. The application of eye drops prescribed by your vet is all that’s needed to put things right quickly.
Mrs Janet Quayle giving vouchers for pool toys to the orphanage for 250 euros.
Make sure your dog avoids strong draughts (such as sticking its head out of a car window while travelling). When walking in the countryside, dogs can also pick up spikelets. These are plant debris that attach themselves to the hair and can then migrate under the skin, between the toes or into the nose and ears. Make sure you check your dog’s coat when you come back from a walk! Summer can therefore present a number of risks for your pets. With all this advice, you should be able to enjoy this beautiful season in Menorca with your 4-legged friends. ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
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SPIRITUAL WELLBEING
By Rev Paul Strudwick
It is a reminder that ritual forms an important part of human life, something about which I have written before (as recently as May, for example). The passages of life, such as birth, coming-of-age, marriage, parenthood, employment transitions, and ultimately death, all merit some sort of recognition, whether religious or not. In Spain, this attachment to ritual finds various ways to be fulfilled. The Spanish approach to life tends to be to celebrate, and while the approach to death is often decidedly pragmatic and phlegmatic, the season upon which we are just embarking, that of Menorca’s Fiestas, is an expression of communal solidarity and joy. These are rituals of celebration of identity and connection - and there is variety, even within this small island. For example, the opening Fiesta of Sant Joan in Ciutadella has a very different ‘feel’ from the Fiesta of Sant Jaume in Es Castell, or the concluding Fiesta of Mahón. As those who have an association with the church of Santa Margarita in Es Castell will know, we are not averse to immersing ourselves in the spirit of Menorca’s Fiestas, and since the day of our patron saint (Margaret of Antioch) falls within the days of celebration of Es Castell’s Fiesta, for the past ten years or more (pandemic notwithstanding) we have arranged our own mini-fiesta to celebrate what in the church is known as our patronal festival. In 2023, we were very happy to be joined by our Bishop, David Hamid - and fortunate, too, because later in the year he announced plans to retire at the end of February 2024. See below for more details about this year’s celebration.
REMEMBRANCE AT THE ANGLO-AMERICAN CEMETERY AND OTHER RITUALS In an obscure corner of the harbour of Mahón, on the north side, there is a cemetery, surrounded by a white wall, and only accessible from the water, or a staircase which has a rather obscure entrance not far from ‘little Venice.’ It is known by some as the ‘Cementerio Inglés,’ or more properly, the Anglo-American Cemetery. It dates back to the late eighteenth century and is the resting place for those who could not be interred in the local cemeteries that were for Roman Catholics at the time, in this case Protestants, including Anglicans. It is a sort of physical chapter of a history book of Menorca, because the majority of those whose graves are within are from the United States Navy in the early-to-mid nineteenth century. A lot of them died from drowning, because sailors did not learn to swim. The US Navy, which was operating to protect its own ships as international trade expanded, had established a training base in Menorca. The US Navy’s first admiral, David Farragut, whose father had been born in Ciutadella in 1775, visited Menorca in 1868, but thereafter the cemetery fell into disrepair. It was the late Jim Maps who in 1965 drew attention to the cemetery’s decline, and from 1977 occasional visits by passing American naval ships contributed to its upkeep. I’m sure that the American sailors who were given the duty of painting the walls greatly appreciated the historical connection! The Spanish government helped to restore the cemetery in 2008. Every year in early June, with only interruption from the pandemic, there is a ceremony at the cemetery to honour those interred there. It is organised by the Madrid Council of the Navy League of the United States, which combines the occasion with the commemoration of Admiral Farragut in Ciutadella, where there is a statue of him. As Anglican chaplain, it has been my privilege to participate in these ceremonies, together with officials from the US Consulate, other US officials, the Spanish Navy, and the Spanish Army, which now has primary responsibility for the cemetery (and keeps the key!). This year a small group of us gathered on 7 June, to say a few words on behalf of those interred there, to read Psalm 23, and to say some prayers on their behalf. I am always mindful that we stand amidst the graves of young men (and one wife) who set out to serve their country as seamen at a time when travel was considerably slower than it is today, when a tour of duty could last years, when the probability of it being a one-way trip was not insubstantial, even in peacetime, and when news of the demise of a family member could take rather a long time to reach home. We were also acutely aware that we stood in respectful memory of servicemen on the day after the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
When it comes down to it, almost all of what we do in the church has some sort of ritual in it. Whether it is a weekly Sunday or weekday service, we do tend to follow broadly similar structures of worship; weddings look like weddings (of course), baptisms, whether infant or adult, tend to follow a set pattern, and funerals tend to have a common format, although there is plenty of latitude to allow for the celebration of individuality in each life. Having said that, we don’t do exactly the same thing every week! For example, I keep a record of the hymns that we use in worship: over a ten-year period we have sung more than 400 different hymns, some of them once, some of them twenty times. I believe that it was my father whom I first heard using the expression, ‘Variety is the spice of life.’ It is possible to have variety within the setting of observing rituals, whether of worship, or secular and social activity. Perhaps the place of ritual within our lives is to help us deal with the inevitability of change. Nothing really stays the same, whether it’s the world around us, or the state of our minds and bodies. That’s why we balk when someone suggests something like making a radical change to our Christmas festivities! Going back to the Anglo-American Cemetery: I really do hope that the memory of those interred within it continues to be celebrated for years to come, out of respect for them, and as a reminder of their place in the history of Menorca. And I wish all of us the very best of the Fiesta season in Menorca. For anyone who would like more information about the Anglo-American cemetery, there is a rather nice little Wikipedia article that describes it and its origins: https:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_Cemetery,_Menorca
SANTA MARGARITA Worship in the church of Santa Margarita takes place on Sunday mornings at 9am and 11am, as well as at 11am every Wednesday, and morning prayer with a focus on healing at 11am on Friday (also on Zoom). Santa Margarita continues to offer worship online, to respect the needs of those unable to worship in person at the church. As mentioned above, we plan to celebrate the fiesta of Santa Margarita on 21 July (adjusted to accommodate the Fiestas of Es Castell) as we have in past years, with a procession from the Roman Catholic church and an ecumenical service of thanksgiving to follow. And refreshments! The church website will continue to be the place to seek up-to-date news and information about online worship: our new website can be found at anglicanchurchmenorca.net.
The phone number for the chaplain, Paul, is +34 617222382 and his e-mail is chaplain@anglicanchurchmenorca.com (which remains the same).
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“FRANCESES EN MENORCA” THE FRENCH ASSOCIATION
By Viviane PERRIER, President
The “Franceses en Menorca” Association came into being in May 2021, the date on which it was officially entered in the Register of Associations of the Balearic Islands in Palma. It is the only official French association in Menorca and currently has 135 members. This not-for-profit Association is managed by a Board elected for 4 years. Its main objectives are to offer cultural and leisure activities, while also being open to Menorcans wishing to improve their knowledge of the French language and culture. The Association offers its French members the chance to broaden their knowledge of a wide range of aspects of the island of Menorca (history, heritage, economy, cultural events, environment, gastronomy, etc.), in a spirit of openness and friendly sharing of cultures. Although French members are obviously the most numerous, the Association is open to all those who wish to share its objectives, regardless of nationality. The Association is based in Sant Lluis but does not have its own premises: its annual meetings are held in the Salle de Pleno, kindly made available by Sant Lluis Town Hall, with which it maintains the best possible relations. Other meetings and gatherings take place in a variety of places, both public (bars, restaurants, etc.) and private (at members’ homes). Our activities focus on a number of areas: Clubs - A book club whose members meet once a month to suggest readings, report on the books they have read, exchange works (mainly novels). This club is also behind the creation of “Book Boxes”, installed in two public libraries: one in Sant LLuis, the other in Mahon. The idea is to make French-language books - a rare commodity in Menorca - available to everyone free of charge! A new “Boîte” will be opening in Es Mercadal next autumn. These are supplied by personal donations from members of the association or supporters, and today our catalogue contains over 200 books. - A film club, which has been running for three years between October and May. This was made possible thanks to the active and generous support of Sant Lluis Town Hall, which provides us with the Albert-Camus cinema and its projectionist free of charge one Wednesday evening a month. The films - free of rights - are sent free of charge by the cinema section of Barcelona’s “Institut français”, i.e. the cultural services of the French Consulate General. The films are in the original French with Spanish subtitles. These evenings are increasingly popular with the Menorcan public, and provide good entertainment, especially in winter. - A Menorcan cookery workshop (mainly during the festive seasons: Christmas and Easter) led by a Menorcan chef who prepares the treasures of traditional cuisine and passes on the recipes so that participants can repeat them at home. - And, occasionally, cosmetics workshops run by one of our members who makes her own certified organic products by hand, using as many ingredients as possible from the Menorcan terroir (olive oil, essential oils from aromatic plants, honey, camomile, etc.).
Outings and visits They are very varied and most of the time suggested by the members themselves. There are the classic hikes, such as the Santa Agueda hill, the barrancs (Algendar, Binigaus, Llucalari) and the seaside, usually combined with a picnic when the weather permits. There are also birdwatching outings, led by a bird specialist in the Albufera d’es Grau, at the time of migration... And visits where nature meets culture and some of the island’s traditions: fincas specialising in livestock rearing and traditional cheese-making, a horse farm and pigeon loft, a finca in Es Mercadal specialising in the cultivation of crocus sativus, harvested in November and used to make saffron (ISAFRA), the “Cultiu de Bolets” (mushrooms) near Mahon, the “Sal de Menorca” saltworks in Fornells, guided tours of the Teatro de Mahon, Isla del Rey, Lithica in Ciutadella, La Mola, as well as exhibitions and conferences, etc... Communication and exchanges Although the Association is not seeking to take the place of an honorary consulate (which does not exist in Menorca), it has recently become part of a scheme to assist French candidates for expatriation who wish to develop a professional project in Spain, a scheme set up by the French MP representing our constituency in the French National Assembly. Two members of our Association, who are heads of a locally based company, have agreed to take on this role on a voluntary basis (providing practical and legal advice, in particular). In 2023, we launched a partnership with our sister association in Soller (Mallorca), whose members first came to Menorca last October to get to know each other. We met up with them again in April 2024, during a memorable trip to Soller. The discussions focused on the history of our two territories, with Soller having strong links with France, thanks to the traditional orange trade, at a time when the lack of communications on Mallorca severely restricted communications between Soller and the rest of the island. Cultural exchanges have developed between us, not to mention the bonds of friendship that are growing stronger. Lastly, our bank holiday on 14 July is an opportunity to pay tribute to the soldiers who died at the Hospital de l’Ile du Roi during France’s war of conquest of Algeria from 1830 onwards. Each year, a remembrance ceremony is held in the grounds of the former (disused) ‘Cimetière des Français’ in Sant Antoni, a site that has been partially restored by the Fundacion Hospital Isla del Rey, which has voluntarily consolidated the surrounding wall and affixed commemorative plaques. The raising of the colours and the Marseillaise are always moving highlights... And it is this celebration that traditionally brings the Association’s activities to a close. Everyone then turns their attention to other things, enjoying the summer lifestyle and entertaining family and friends.
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1. Picnic in winter at the Caleta de Santandria (South coast) 2. Hike to Santa Agueda Hill 3. Walk to Cala Pudent (north coast) 4. Guided tour of the Teatro de Mahon 5. Back-to-school picnic in Cala Blanès 6. French Association of Vall de Soller 7. Christmas cooking workshop 2023 8. Finca ISAFRA harvests saffron in Es Mercadal
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WHAT’S ON
WHAT’S
ON JULY 2024
Every month we try to list events that we know are happening to help you plan ahead. Of course if you hear of anything else yourself that is of interest to the readers, then please let us know info@roquetamagazine.net
MUSIC FESTIVALS PEDRA VIVA July and August: Music and scenic arts festival in beautiful locations across the island. Full programme, location of concerts, and tickets from www.pedravivamenorca.com/ 5 July: Duo Ruut, Pedrera s’Hort des Milord, Carretera de Sant Felip, 33 (Es Castell), 8pm. 12 July: Mark Pulido, Era de Sant Josep (Ferreries), 8pm. 19 July: Evoé, Pedrera de Cala En Blanes (Ciutadella), 9pm. 26 July: Pasión Vega, Pedrera de Cala En Blanes (Ciutadella), 9pm. 2 and 3 August: Els Pirates, Torre-Saura country house, Ciutadella, 9pm. 9 August: Sonoma La Veronal, La Mola fortress (Mahón), 9pm. 15 August: Joan Dausà, Torre-Saura country house, Ciutadella at 10pm. 23 August: Vocal Vircan, Cova des Coloms (Es Migjorn Gran), 7pm. 30 August: Idiòfona, Joan Català, Es Pinaret (Ciutadella), 7pm. 5 September: Yarin, Kukai Dantza, Hauser & Wirth (Isla del Rey), 7.15pm. 22 September: Cadira, Pep Aymerich, Hauser & Wirth (Isla del Rey), 12.30pm.
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MENORCA MUSIC FESTIVAL 2024 2-9 August: sustainable music festival held in the Recinte Firal in the town of Es Mercadal https://menorcamusicfestival.com/ 2 August: Melendi 3 August: God Save The Queen 4 August: Nil Moliner. 5 August: Stay Homas + Guillem Gisbert 6 August: La Oreja de Van Gogh 7 August: David Bisbal 9 August: Stool
CRANC ILLA DE MENORCA FESTIVAL 2024 26-29 September: taking place in Cala Figuera, port of Mahón. https://crancfestival.com
NIGHTS OUT: LA TERRAZA DISCOTECA MENORCA DJs nights throughout July and August. More info re guest DJs on Instagram: laterraza _ discoteca.
COVA DEN XOROI Sunset and night sessions. Guest DJs. Tickets from https://www. covadenxoroi.com/
ES CLAUSTRE The courtyard in Es Claustre, by Iglesia del Carmen in Mahón town centre is the scene of many live concerts; over seventy have been scheduled throughout the summer until October. https://www.esclaustre.com/es/agenda/
JAZZBAH Located in the port of Ciutadella, jazzbah regularly holds live concerts throughout the summer. Check online for more information on https:// jazzbah.es/
LIVE MUSIC EVENTS 7th and 10th July James Kirby Sunset Cruise Concert on board ORCA 7pm CALA LLONGA, Tickets and information: jameskirbymusic.com 2nd July James Kirby concert at the Caves of Xoroi CALA EN PORTER information: jameskirbymusic.com 6 July: Celtas Cortos in concert in the Cales Fonts car park, 10pm. Tickets from https://entradium.com/events/celtas-cortos-en-menorca 6 and 7 July: Concert Ferreries, by Fernando Ferrer Martinez, on the Auditorium terrace, Ferreries. 8th July James Kirby concert at the Jaz bah, Ciutadella 10pm jameskirbymusic.com 9 July: The Binigaus band in concert in the Recinte Firal Es Mercadal, 9pm. Tickets available from ticketsib.com 11th July James Kirby concert at Es Claustre, Ciutadella 10pm jameskirbymusic.com 12 July: Sopa de Cabra in concert in Recinte Firal Es Mercadal, at 10pm. Tickets from https://entradas.codetickets.com/entradas/sopa-decabra-en-concert-menorca 12 July: Amparanioa in concert at Es Claustre, Mahón. https://www.esclaustre.com/es/agenda/ 13 July: The Binigaus band in concert in the football grounds Los Nogales, Es Migjorn, 10pm. Tickets available from ticketsib.com 21 July Geckos Acoustic concert at 4pm on the terrace of Alexancas Bar, Son Parc. Featuring Hung Grundy of the Zombies on drums, Mick Connor on Guitar, Simon Holland on bass. Book a table in advance. 30 August: Antonia Font in concert at Es Claustre, Mahón. https://www.esclaustre.com/es/agenda/ 31st August Enfusion Choir One Night Only’ concert Aerodrome Sant Llus Whatsapp 600293626
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TEATRE PRINCIPAL Carrer d’en Deià 40, Mahón This is the oldest opera house in Spain, dating from 1829, with a wide programme of shows and concerts. See website for full programme. Tickets available online or from the box office. Guided tours on Wednesdays until 25 September at 12 noon (45 mins) in Spanish, Catalan, English and Italian. Price: 8€. Bookings on telephone 971355602 or email principal@teatremao.com Box office open mornings Tuesday to Saturday 11.30am to 1.30pm. Afternoons: Thursday and Friday 6.30 to 8.30pm. Also, one hour before the start of the performance. https://www.taquilla.com/mahon/teatre-principal-de-mao 4 July: The OCIM chamber orchestra, conducted by Francesc Prats, performing Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5 and Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides, 9pm. 10 July: Magic show with Jorge Blas, 8.30pm. 18 July: Jazz concert with Antonio Mellado (Zenet) and his Jazz Band, 9pm. 1 August: Evening of dance 78i... Gala d’Estrelles de la Dansa-Fundació Rubió, 9pm. 8 August: Concert performed by the Paquito D’Rivera Trío and Àngela Cervantes, 9pm. 14 August: Concert with the Èlia Bastida Quartet, 9pm.
FOLK DANCING IN CIUTADELLA 7 July: 8.30pm in Plaça Federico Pareja.
22 August: Concert with Martirio and the Chano Domínguez Trío, 9pm.
21 July: 8.30pm in Plaça Princesa Joana 28 July: 8.30pm in Plaça Jaume II.
52ND SUMMER CLASSICAL MUSIC FESTIVAL CIUTADELLA
18 August: 8.30pm in Plaça des Pins. 25 August: 8.30pm in Plaça de l’Almirall Farragut
www.jjmmciutadella.com/
Plaça des Born, Ciutadella
5 July: The OCIM chamber orchestra, conducted by Francesc Prats, performing Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5 and Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides, 9pm in the Teatro Es Born.
Ciutadella’s theatre puts on a full programme of events, listed on the website https://www.teatredesborn.com/
15 July: The Bellinfante Quartet perform Paral.lel 40, 9pm in the Claustre del Seminari.
Tickets available online and from the ticket office, which is open Tuesdays 11.30am to 1pm, Thursdays 7 to 8.30pm, also one hour before the start of the performance.
22 July: Ensemble Cristóbal de Morales, 9pm in the Claustre del Seminari.
TEATRE DES BORN
5 July: The OCIM, conducted by Francesc Prats, performing Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5 and Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides, 9pm. 11 July: Thriller Tanatologia, by Xavier Uriz, 9pm. 16 July: Flamenco dance Peculiar, by Ana Morales, 9pm.
29 July: Trio Fortuny, 9pm in the Claustre del Seminari. 31 July: Cor Jove Nacional de Catalunya, 8.30pm in the sanctuary on Monte Toro. 5 August: De bat a bat, performed by María Angels Gornés, 9pm in the Claustre del Seminari. 12 August: Cartografía del mar, André Cebrian (flute) and Pedro Mateo (guitar), 9pm in the Claustre del Seminari.
23 July: Concert Corsé by Clara Peya, 9pm.
18 and 19 August: Ritual, performed by Isabel Villanueva, 9pm in Numa and 9pm in the Socors church.
30 July: Children’s show The Incredible Box, by Cia La Tal, 7.30pm.
26 August: Noelia Rodiles (piano), 9pm in the Claustre del Seminari.
TEATRE DE CIUTADELLA (TEATRE DE CALÓS)
EARLY MUSIC FESTIVAL
Carrer de María Auxiliadora 38, Ciutadella.
The Early Music festival is taking place once more in Es Migjorn
Tickets available from
https://es.musicaantigaesmigjorn.com/
https://www.ukalarimenorcaevents.com/
25 July: Réunion des Goûts performed by Il Gesto Armonico, 9pm in Es Migjorn parish church.
5 July: Comedy: La Curva de la Felicidad. Time to be advised. 20 July: Comedy ¡Martita Sea! Time to be advised. 26 July: American rock punk tribute fest, 9pm. This event will be held in the Sala Multifuncional in Ciutadella at 9pm. 10 August: Hotnight Musical cabaret. Time to be advised. 14 September: Comedy Vaya pack de vasc@s, 10pm. 21 September: Aladdin Tribute show, 7pm.
26 July: Crónicas Vivaldianas: La sonata performed by the Ensemble Tsaldaris, 9pm in Es Migjorn parish church. 27 July: Conference/concert by Laura Triay, musicologist, 8pm in the Saló Verd, Es Migjorn. 28 July: Mujeres a la sombra, performed by Marina Plovins (soprano), María Antonietta Muggianu (soprano) and Graziela Lleonart (rhapsode), 9pm in Es Migjorn parish church.
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26 July: Molí Market. Craft market 7-11pm in carrer Sant Lluis.
28 June: Organ concert performed by Juan de la Rubia, 9pm in Santa Maria church, Mahón.
26 July: Frank Sinatra tribute, 9.30pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis.
4 July: The OCIM, conducted by Francesc Prats, performing Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5 and Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides, 9pm in the Teatro Principal.
2 August: Se Vessa Mos Canta, 8pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis.
10 July: Cello recital performed by the Emporion Cello Ensemble, 9pm in the cloisters of the Museum of Menorca.
5 August: Ballroom dance music, from Amélie to Ravel, 9pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis.
31 July: Blai Barber, 9pm in Biniancolla. 3 August: Estados de Ánimo, 9.30pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis.
17 July: Breaking Bach, fusion of classical music and flamenco, with Carles Marigó, Ismael Alcina and David Domínguez, 9pm in the Orfeó Maonès (carrer de Gracia 155, Mahón).
7 August: Menorca en Dansa, 9pm in S’Algar.
24 July: Cantoria.Quartet, 9pm in the cloisters of the Museum of Menorca.
9 August: Gospel music with Moments a Cor, 9pm by Molí de Dalt.
31 July: The José Antonio Domené Trío, playing the harp, flute and viola, 9pm in the cloisters of the Museum of Menorca.
ALAIOR: NIGHT OF THE CANDLES
14 August: jazz concert performed by the Èlia Bastida Quartet, 9pm in the Teatro Principal, Mahón.
FOSQUETS DE LÍTHICA
9 August: Molí Market. Craft market 7-11pm in carrer Sant Lluis.
Every Thursday evening in Summer – take a romantic walk through the town.
OCIMAX CINEMA MAHÓN: https://www.aficine.com/cine/ocimaxmahon/
Every summer an arts festival takes place in Líthica quarries, on the outskirts of Ciutadella. Tickets available from www.fosquetsdelithica.com
Cineclub films shown in the original language on Thursdays at 8.30pm.
3 July: A piano sol, performed by Marco Mezquida, 9pm.
CINEMES MOIX NEGRE CIUTADELLA
11 July: Tres Ànimes, tres Llibertats, Daphné Souvatzi (mezzo soprano), François Aria (guitar) and Artyon Minassyan (duduk), 9pm. 18 July: Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, performed by Coral Càrmina, with the OCIM conducted by Daniel Mestre i Dalmau and E. Blasco (organ), 9pm. 25 July: Traversées, Constantinople, 9pm. 1 August: Fl4menca, with Ana Fernández (vocals), Carmen García (guitar), Romina Vázquez (percussion) and Helena Cueto (dance), 8.30pm. 8 August: Tanyedoores, performed by Milo Ke Mandarini, 8.30pm. 15 August: Classical music concert with the Bachcelona Consort, 8.30pm. 19 August: Night of the full moon with Balkan music Bratia and aerial show Al fil de la lluna, by A Plom i Vol, 10pm.
http://www.cinesmoixnegre.org/ Films shown in the original language most Tuesdays at 8.30pm. Cineclub films screened every Tuesday and Thursday at 8.30pm.
MENORCA DOC FEST 4 October – 1 November: Documentary festival https://www.menorcadocfest.com/
GUIDED TOURS
22 August: Il Gesto Armonico, by Especial Quietud Musical, 7pm.
Bell tower Sant Francesc church, Mahón. The bell tower is open to visits on Saturdays 10am-1pm and Sundays 11am-1pm, until 29 September. Donation: 1€.
29 August: Confesiones a Lope, drama performed by Cia. Almaviva, 8.30pm.
Torre d’en Galmés: Sundays at 10am (in English). Tickets online
1 September: Day of the Labyrinth, from 5pm onwards.
https://www.menorca.es/es/Visitas _ guiadas _ al _ poblado _ de _ Torre _ den _ Galmes/15447
5 September: Na Clara, performed by Clara Gorrias, 8pm.
Cova de s’Aigua, in Cala Blanca: guided tours in English daily at 9.30am and 3pm.
SUMMER IN SANT LLUIS The council have organised a number of events throughout July and August: live bands, craft markets, and so on. 3 July: Live music: Los Chaveas, 9pm racó des Paupa, Cala Torret 5 July: Mesquida & Ruete Duet and the Fandango All Stars, 9pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis.
https://www.menorca.es/es/ Visitas _ guiadas _ la _ Cova _ de _ sAigua/14052 Hospital on the Isla del Rey In English: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:20 in French: Wednesdays at 11:20 In Spanish: Monday to Saturday at 11:15 and 19:15. Sundays in all languages departing on the Catamaran at 9am
8 July: The Balearic Guitar Foundation, 9pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis.
CATAMARAN SUMMER SCHEDULE – Departures from Mahón from 11:00 to 21:00 Return from the Island from 12:30 to 23:30T
8 – 22 July: Menorca Starlight 2024. Open Monday to Friday 7-9pm, in Sala Albert Camús. Free admission.
MENORCA BIOSPHERE RESERVE
10 July: Pere Arguimbau Trio, 9pm in Alcaufar 12 July: Molí Market. Craft market 7-11pm in carrer Sant Lluis. 12 July: Xalandrí performing habaneras, 9.30pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis. 17 July: Dance display with Nuar dansa, 9pm Binisafua beach. 19 July: Children’s games, 7pm at Pla de Cas Rector. 19 July: Live music for children at 8.30pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis. 22 July: Classical music with Stylus Phantasticus, 9pm in Pla de sa Creu, in Sant Lluis.
Guided visits on different aspects of the Biosphere Reserve. Visits are in Catalan and free of charge. Places are limited and are to be booked in advance on www.menorcabiosfera.org or by WhatsApp to 699 824 897 10 August: Pluja estel·lar, 9pm to midnight. 22 September: Una bassa d’oli, 10am to 1.30pm. 26 November: Una guarderia al mig del mar, 10am to 1.30pm. 16 December: De la pesca de l’anguila a la gestió de l’aigua, at 9.30am then again at 11.30am.
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TALAYOTIC MENORCA GUIDED VISITS: These tours are in Catalan and are free of charge: you just need to sign up for them. Tel: 689 33 28 88. 21 September: Talatí de Dalt 20 October: Trepucó 17 November: Es Grau – Torrre de Rambla. 14 December: Rituals in talayotic times, Museum of Menorca.
CAN ALBERTI CULTURAL CENTRE Calle Isabel II 9, Mahón www.hotelcanalberti.com/en/art/ 28 June- 8 July: Photo exhibition by Isabel Muñoz. 11 July- 2 August: Art and photo exhibition with Ibasho Art gallery.
EXHIBITIONS Confrontacions, by Carles Moll, at El Roser exhibition hall at Carrer Roser 11, Ciutadella. Open Monday to Saturday 11am to 1pm and 6 to 9pm. Until 13 July. Admission free Cossos, diàlegs amb Matías Quetglas, by Carles Jiménez, at El Roser exhibition hall at Carrer Roser 11, Ciutadella. Open Monday to Saturday 11am to 1pm and 6 to 9pm. From 19 July to 2 November. Admission free Jesús Rafael Soto, exhibition of the artist’s works at the Galería Cayón. Open Mondays: 6 to 9pm. Tuesday to Saturday: 10.30am to 2pm and 6 to 9pm. Open from 3 June to 29 August. Carrer de Sant Roc 24, Mahón. Admission free. LÔAC: Contemporary art gallery located at Calle Santiago Pons Quintana 56, Alaior. Open Tuesday to Sunday 5 to 8pm, also Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 1.30pm. Admission 5€. Sculptures by Carlos Albert in Alaior town centre. Outdoor exhibition of art by Madrid sculptor in central locations around the town centre, until 15 September.
CENTRO NUMA https://www.numamenorca.com/ A new cultural centre has opened in the Sa Quintana area of Ciutadella, located on the corner of carrer Santa Barbara and carrer Marino Benejam (on the northern side of the port, just up the hill from the bridge). Run by the Fundación Numa, the centre is opening with the Inner Voice exhibition of 30 sculptures by Dutch artist Caspar Berger. Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9.30am to 12.30pm. Also Tuesday to Saturday 4 to 9pm. Admission 15€. Guided tours in English every Tuesday at 11.30am.
HAUSER & WIRTH Contemporary art exhibitions on Illa del Rei. The gallery is open until 27 October, showing works by Roni Horn and Eduardo Chillida. Admission free. Several activities (tours, concerts, workshops, etc) are organised throughout the summer. Please see website for more information.
THE ARTS SOCIETY MENORCA 19th September 8pm Stella Grace Lyons “All the Lonely People: The Work of American Realist Edward Hopper” 24th October 8pm Andrew Prince “From Downton to Gatsby: Jewellery and Fashion 1890 to 1929” Aerodrome Sant, Llus menorca@theartssociety.org www.theartssociety.org/menorca
SPORTS EVENTS 27 – 31 August Copa Del Rey Classic Ships sailing regatta. www.velaclasicamenorca.com 28 September: The Trail Nocturna, night run, https://traildelsfars.com/nocturna 6 October: Artiem Half Menorca Triathlon. www.artiemhalfmenorca.com ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
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11-13 October: Mountain bike tour of Menorca. www.menorcabtt.com 18-20 October: International cycling tour. www.menorcacicloturista.com
BANK HOLIDAYS Everything closed, although in the summer months, many shops tend to stay open. All shops and businesses remain closed during the respective local fiestas. 15 August: Assumption Day 12 October: Spain’s National Day 1 November: All Saints’ Day 6 December: Constitution Day 8 December: Day of the Immaculate Conception. 25 December: Christmas Day.
LOCAL FIESTAS DATES SUMMER 2024: Mercadal: Sant Martí 20-21 July Fornells: Sant Antoni 27-28 July Es Castell: Sant Jaume 24-25-26 July Es Migjorn: Sant Cristófol 3-4 August Llucmaçanes: Sant Gaietà 3-4 August Alaior: Sant Llorenç 10-11 August Sant Climent: Sant Climent 17-18 August Ferreries : Sant Bartomeu 23-24 August Sant Lluis: Sant Lluis 24-25 August Mahón: Mare de Deu de Gracia 7-9 September Es Mercadal: Sant Nicolau 14-15 September Cala’n Porter: 21-22 September
GETTING AROUND THE ISLAND If you prefer using public transport as an alternative to taking the car, there are three bus companies covering different parts of the island. Buses are very punctual, although bear in mind timetables vary greatly depending on the time of year. Up to date bus timetables can be checked online. TORRES www.bus.e-torres.net Torres buses run between Ciutadella and resorts along the west coast, as well as to the unspoiled beaches to the north and to the south of Ciutadella. Torres also operate the line from Mahón town centre to the airport. TMSA www.tmsa.es TMSA buses run across the island connecting all the main towns, as well as routes to the resorts on the southern coast and eastern coast AUTOS FORNELLS https://www.autosfornells.com/ connecting Mahón with the north-eastern coastline up to Fornells, also connections to Alaior and Es Mercadal.
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MARKETS
STREET MARKETS
CRAFT MARKETS
Mahón: Tuesday and Saturday 7am to 3pm in the Plaça Esplanada. Mahón: Daily, Pla de Baixamar, 10am to 8pm. Ciutadella: Monday and Friday 8.30am to 3pm in the Plaza Borne. Alayor: Thursday morning in town centre. Fornells: Wednesdays, 9am to 2pm. in Carrer de la Mar. Sant Lluis: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am to 1pm in Pla de sa Creu. Es Castell: Mondays and Wednesdays, 8am to 2pm in Plaza Esplanada. Ferreries: Saturdays 9am to 1pm in Plaça Espanya.
Mahón: June to September, Tuesdays and Saturdays, Plaça del Carme, 9am to 2pm. Mahón: July and August, Tuesday evenings, in the streets of the town centre, 8 to 11pm. Ciutadella: 1 June to 15 September, Mondays and Fridays (also Wednesdays in July and August), in Plaça des Born 7pm to midnight. Ciutadella: 1 June to 30 September, daily, on the steps down to the port, 7pm to midnight. Ciutadella: 1 June to 30 September, daily, in Portal de la Mar (slope down to port), 7pm to midnight. Es Castell: 15 June to 15 September, daily, in Cales Fonts, 7.30pm to 1am. Es Migjorn Gran: July, August and September, Tuesday evenings in the town centre, 6 to 11pm. Alaior: 6 June to 11 September in the town centre, Wednesday evenings, 7 to 11pm. Es Mercadal: July to end September, Thursdays, in the town centre, 7 to 11pm. Es Mercadal: October to end May, Thursdays, Carrer Nou, 10am to 1pm. Ferreries: July to September, Fridays, 6 to 11pm in the old part of town. Fornells: 12 June to end September, Mondays, Carrer Major and Plaça Esglesia, 7 to 11pm. Sant Lluis: 15 June to end August, Friday evenings in town centre, 7 to 11pm.
FARMERS’ MARKETS Ciutadella: Wednesdays and Saturdays 8am to 2pm in Plaza de la Libertad (by the fish market). Mahon: Sundays 9am to 2pm, in Carrer de s’Arravaleta and Carrer Nou (by the American bar). Mahón Tapas by the fish market: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 11.30pm. Also, open Sundays in July and August. Ferreries: Saturdays, 9am to 1pm in Plaza España (main square).
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ISLAND INFORMATION CONSULATES How do I contact the British Consulate? You can call or send an email to our contact centre Tel: 933666200 Email: spain.consulate@fco.gov.uk (Make sure you put ‘Menorca’ in the subject line) They will be able to answer most general enquiries and will pass you through to the team in Palma, should you need further assistance. www.gov.uk/government/world/spain. Germany San Andreu 32, Mahón. Tel 971 36 90 12 EMERGENCY NUMBERS General Emergencies 112 (equivalent to 999 in UK). 24 hour service in 4 languages. Domestic Violence 016 Local Police 092 National Police: 091 Police station Mahon: 971 363 712. Police station Ciutadella: 971 363 066 Fire Service 971 35 10 11 Sea Rescue 900 202 202 Emergency Ambulance 061 OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION Tourist Information visit www.menorca.es. Offices in Mahón and Ciudadela Taxis 971 36 71 11
Chemist shops are closed on Sundays, but some are open on Saturdays. Shop Opening Hours 09.00 – 13.30 and 16.30/17.00 – 20.30 Larger supermarkets Monday to Saturday 09.00 – 21.00 Sunday mornings in summer Banks Monday to Friday 08.15 – 14.00 If hiring a car, you are required to keep with you: Hire documents, driving licence and a photocopy of your passport. NB: Seat belts are compulsory, and children must be in the back of the vehicle For a comprehensive list of all bus times on the Island, please visit www.tmsa.es Internal flights in Spain from Menorca: Iberia – www.vueling.com, www.iberia.com POST OFFICES Carrer de Ciutadella, 76, 07701 Maó Plaça des Born, 9, 07760 Ciutadella de Menorca Carrer Llevant, 5-7, 07720 Es Castell Carrer Lepanto, 43, 07740 Es Mercadal Carrer de sa Lluna, 13 (antes, Carrer de Sant Esteve, 14), 07710 Sant Lluís HOSPITALS WITH 24 HR EMERGENCIES MAHON Hospital Mateo Orfila Rda. de Malbúger, 1, 07703 Mahón, Phone: 971 48 70 00
CIUTADELLA Canal Salat C/ Sant Antoni Maria Claret, s/n 07760 Ciutadella Tel: 971 480 112 PRIVATE CLINICS CLINICA JUANEDA Avenida Vives Llull, 6 07703 Mahón Tel. 971 351 115 info.menorca@juaneda.es CLINICA JUANEDA Jose Delfin Serra, 10, 07760 Ciutadella Tel. 971 480 505 info.menorca@juaneda.es POLICLINICA VIRGEN DE GRACIA Av Vives Llull 6, 07003, Mahon Tel: 971351115 RED CROSS CREU ROJA MAÓ C/ Josep Anselm Clavé, 162 ·07703 Tel.: 971 36 11 80 Creu Roja Ciutadella c/ de la Creu, 2 07760 Tel.: 971 38 19 93 CREU ROJA FERRERIES Av. Jaume Mascaró, 66, 07750 Tel.: 971 37 31 39 Creu Roja Es Mercadal C/ Veterinaris Gomila, 12, 07740 Tel.: 971 37 53 00 CREU ROJA ALAIOR C/ Orient, 39 · 07703 Tel.: 971 37 12 38
CREU ROJA SANT LLUÍS C/ Pere Tudurí, s/n · 07710 Tel.: 971 15 10 01 CHEMISTS Chemists or Farmacias are found around the island. For emergencies out of hours, there is a list of duty chemists displayed on the chemist door. GAS All cooking gas used in Menorca is bought from REPSOL BUTANO. Bottles can be exchanged at petrol stations and at the depots. Mahon: Avinguda de Fort de l’Eau, 125, BJ, 07701 Mahon: Main Road. Maó-Ciutadella ME-1, Km. 3,5. 07714 Ciutadella: Cala Morell Road, c/ Algaiarens, km. 1,5, 07760 See the website for opening hours https://gasmenorca.es/centros-dedistribucion/ FLIGHTS FROM THE ISLAND For all information and timetables regarding travel by air and sea to and from the Island please refer to the airline websites. To contact the airport, call 971 157 000 SANTA MARGARITA ANGLICAN CHURCH +34 617222382 e-mail chaplain@anglicanchurchmenorca.com
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ES MERCADAL
TREASURE HUNT
Our second treasure hunt is in the lovely town of Es Mercadal, which was founded in 1301 when King James II of Mallorca ordered the establishment of a market in the centre of Menorca between Mahón and Ciutadella. As with the Alaior hunt last month, the Es Mercadal hunt is designed to be a fun way of exploring the town of Es Mercadal and is suitable for people of all ages who have a reasonable level of fitness (there are some steep steps and hills in places).
How to Play First, make sure you take this magazine with you as you will need the treasure map and the answer sheet (larger, printable, PDF versions are available on the menorcatreasurehunts.com website) to complete the quest. There is also additional historic information and extra clues for those who play on the website. If you are arriving by car, we recommend you park in the car park at Carrer de la Verge del Toro (just off the ME1). From there, set your sights on the starting point marked on the map and follow the trail of orange arrows, answering gambits as you go. Complete your gambit answer sheet to unlock the final anagram that reveals the location of our next planned treasure hunt. Jobie Baldwin
READERS CORNER
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Gambit 1
Gambit 6 First, follow the map and on your journey, look for this sign on the wall: Ahead of you is a junction. First, go left to find an antique hotel. Jot down the date it was established. Next, go in the other direction toward the town square, where you will find a sweet ensaimada shop. Find the date it was established, then deduct the second number from the first to find the answer to this gambit.
The British Governor Richard Kane Discovered a way to store the rain. So, instead of building an English pub He built the cistern of Al_ _ _. Gambit 2
Go up the steps to the roof from where you can see “a cóld miser” (the answer is an anagram). Gambit 3 Continue on your route until you find this well. The answer is its Catalan name.
Gambit 7 What is missing from this photo?
Don’t forget to fill your water bottle at the well before continuing along the route to find an ancient profession Gambit 4
To the street that lies low, where the hammer meets steel Follow the sound of the anvil, where sparks will reveal This craftsman of old in his fiery domain, Your next clue is forged with his professional name. Gambit 5 Discover your next location using the following clues (the answer is the final 4 letter word): 1. This building has no sails, though this type usually do. 2. Its purpose is grounded in transformation, turning one of Earth’s gifts into a staple of daily life. 3. It shares a name with a municipality in mainland Spain and an American actress who is married to Justin Timberlake.
Gambit 8 Decode the following (using the tic-tac-toe cypher) to find the next location. For the key to the cypher, go to www.menorcatreasurehunts.com.
Gambit 9 Turn around and take the narrow Carrer des Forn behind you to the Plaça de l’Església. In the Plaça:1. Count the number of open garden windows (partially open windows don’t count), then add the number of planters. 2. Multiply the number of closed windows (partially closed windows don’t count) by the number of trees. 3. Deduct the sum of (1) from the sum of (2). This is the answer.
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READERS CORNER Gambit 10 Take the door behind you to enter the Church Sant Martí. Pass beneath the sign that says “Adoramus Te” (which means “We adore thee” in Latin). What animal is directly above Jesus’ head in the reredos (altarpiece)?
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FIND THE
TREASURE
Gambit 11 Take the main exit door from the church and follow the path back down to the car park. From here, find this building:
Then solve this rebus puzzle (the answer is this doctor’s last name): -
Gambit 12 Find your next location from the text on the plaque beneath the doctor’s bust. Use the following numbers to solve the cypher: -
141, 392, 895, 458, 562, 767 362, 114, 358, 584, 961, 482, 772, 311, 831 The answer is the Catalan name for the big yellow building across the road.
Gambit 13
I am a thing that echoes from the past, Where somehow waves forever last. Through tubes and wires, history’s spun, Through me, the stories of old are sung. From Marconi’s spark to modern tunes, From my chest an antique treasure croons, Tuned to frequencies lost in time, I hide in a shrine to the airwave’s prime. To answer this riddle a question you must best: What am I? Have you guessed?
SOLVE THE ANAGRAM TO FIND THE TREASURE.
Find the answers to these clues and more treasure hunts at
menorcatreasurehunts.com All the hunts are free to play and you can start whenever you want, they’re there all year round. All I ask is that if you enjoyed your hunt, you consider donating to one of Menorca’s incredible charities - if you play online, there will be links waiting for you at the end of your quest!
READERS CORNER
64
JULY 2024
“WE SHALL FIGHT THEM ON THE BEACHES”
By Johnny Wright
Although it is hard to count them with any reliable degree of accuracy, one appropriately named American writer, Jim Maps, in his 1970 book “A Guide to Menorca” claimed that Menorca is “the best beached island in the Mediterranean” and that there were “more than 120 beaches”. I have counted more than120 beaches with my own eyes and I am sure I missed a few. One of the most recent books in the shops “Todas las playas de Menorca” is a complete guide to 131 beaches with photos of them all and 20 maps and so we can say that this is the new minimum. Whatever the actual total is, we can all probably agree that there are a lot, many of them of great beauty and charm- Cala Macarella, Pilar and Cavalleria; some overrun- Mitjana; some pleasantly underrun- Mongofre; some difficult to access-Pilar again; some somewhat easier- Punta Prima- goodish parking and a comfortable walk to base-camp. Menorcan beaches (and most of those around the beachy world) tend to be dominated by a small number of factors: sand; people; swimming, good or bad; sales pitches for ice-cream, soft-drinks; beach furniture and wasps. Sand is ubiquitous: it settles into your end-of-day clothes and awaits you when you try to slip into curiously difficult- to-manage sand-shoes; it infiltrates your sandwiches, your hair, your beer, your Coke or your tea. It is, not surprisingly, a dominant feature of your day at the beach. We do not usually welcome sand to our beds, to our toes, to our bread rolls, to our books or papers, or in our abarcas. What is the actual role of sand: you lie on it; you swim above it; your towels are spread on it; you get sunburned on it; both you and your children show off on it; your umbrellas are thrust into it; castles are made of it; you thrust off from it and leap back on to it when boating. I personally am not a sand man. I simply do not care for sand-dominated beaches. Not for me Mesquida, Son Bou, Arenal or Punta Prima. I very much prefer those lovely horse-shoe shaped beaches surrounded by healthy treesTurqueta, Pregonda, Macarelleta and Mongofre.
Rafalet
We cannot do much about sand but we can attempt to do so something about people and the things they do. A number of Menorcan beaches are simply overcrowded. Not just with the people but also their accoutrements: their chairs, their sun-beds, umbrellas, pedalos and their ball-games and their ice-cream commitment. On a recent Sunday at Son Bou, my ten year-old granddaughter reported a flying umbrella laying low a passing would-be swimmer into, of course, the sand. Proceedings are not being taken. The people’s beach contribution is increased by their litter, especially when it is plastic or glass. The most evidently harmful danger to beaches are unnecessary and ugly seaside hotels. In 1966, my first visit to Menorca, I went to the most beautiful beach in the world- Cala Galdana. There was, I remember, a fisherman’s cottage and, if my memory serves me well, his moored boat and nobody and nothing else. When I came back in 1969, the most horrendous, sky- tickling edifice had been built and with one mighty, money- earning thrust the Beauty had become the Beast. My favourite beach barely qualifies as a beach at all but most guide-books seem to credit it as one, the tiny Playa del Calo de Rafalet, next door to S’Algar. It does have three challengers - Cala Pregonda, Turqueta and Mongofre. But stunningly beautiful Rafalet is hemmed in by healthy trees with a beach-heading path from which one can spot a hoopoe (often), a red kite (quite often), hear a nightingale (me never) and once, just once, further away near to Mongofre, a Golden Eagle!! My local beach is Binisafua, the perfect small children’s beach. For me full of memories good and bad: a moray eel, our boat sinking in a local storm, drugrunning Moroccans ship-wrecked, all the sand swept out of Binisafua Playa’s beach (good idea!), Danny the excellent restauranteur, little litter, but increasingly crowded. My home for fifty-seven summers. D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T
Mongofre
READERS CORNER
65
JULY 2024
PIG TALES
By Rachael Adams
WHAT A WONDROUS SNOUT
I’m sitting very still on a low stone wall at the bottom of Dot’s field. Partly hidden by the holm oak and olive trees, I can at last eat my sandwich in peace. The pig is standing square about 30m away. Too far for her myopic eyes to find me. She casts her snout up in the air, mouth agape, then sways it from side to side trying to catch my scent: Where did she go?? After two quick bites I feel sorry for her and rustle a branch to reveal my whereabouts. Her hearing and then her sniffer lead her straight to me, or to some cheese and tomato. This squishy black marvel of nature is composed of five main parts, from what I can tell anyway. These are: two deep, round, pink-skinned nostrils that angle diagonally towards the centre of her snout, whiskers, bristles, sweat glands, and a cartilaginous disc on the end, with a leathery top roughened up from constant rootling. Her mostly-black whiskers are short compared to a dog’s and stick out of the fleshy sides of her nose, while the disk on the end is covered in stiff, short white bristles less than a cm long. Her sweat glands form a single row of tiny holes across the top of her disc, and her lips are pink in the middle, like a lady wearing lipstick. I love my Vietnamese pot-bellied pig, and I love her snout even more – yet she’d be a million times easier a pet without it. She’d be something heavy, strong, moody and chompy. However, add a surprisingly dextrous snout to an inquisitive nature, intelligent, headstrong mind, and an unrelenting quest for food, and she becomes a weapon of mass destruction. A versatile tool, she can use it to flick our toes up to politely ask for food. She can also use it to bash us in the shin if we haven’t given her food fast enough. The snout was invented to sniff things out then dig them up. Like truffles. Like a trowel. Truffles, to you and me, are underground-extremely-expensive fungi, associated with tree roots. They smell a lot to attract animals to dig them out, eat them up and poo them out again somewhere else. In this way, they spread their spores and reproduce. Female pigs were traditionally used as far back as Roman times to find the fungi—allegedly drawn towards their musky compounds that smell similar to male pig saliva. But then the hungry hussies went and ate them! Thus, fearful truffle-hunters of the last century have largely ditched their swines and swapped them for dogs (I can’t imagine getting anything off Dot once she’s found it!). The new, lighter, snoutless version also tears up the ground somewhat less—hunters mostly have to dig the prize up themselves, from as far as three feet down. Extraction method notwithstanding, today’s billionaires enjoy outbidding themselves at international truffle auctions, the highest went for $330000 in 2024. Or you can get them on eBay from Bulgaria for £49.96. Regrettably, Dot’s schnoz hasn’t quite made us millionaires just yet. Unlike larger, “commercial” pigs, she never even roots up the lawn, but sensibly prefers to graze it. I tried to teach her when she was little, by digging the ground over and hiding muesli in it, but it never caught on. She does nose about in the soil all day but only ploughs it up if it’s very loose, like in leaf mould under pine trees. Here she gouges out trenches to lie in to keep cool. It appears though, that pigs don’t just rip up people’s gardens for fun, as organic farmer Helen Browning explains in her book “Pig”. Her sows in Wiltshire are rotated to a new grassy paddock each time they give birth. Here the tiny piglets rootle daily in fresh soil. Through direct snout-to-soil contact, they ingest microbes, particularly the probiotic Lactobacillus. This is a family of healthy gut bacteria that strengthen the babies’ still-developing immune systems. The only time Dot was ill was when she ate a whole packet of biscuits including the wrapper and got bunged up, so hopefully the soil is keeping her right!
On the other hand, conventionally-reared pigs live indoors their whole lives and have been shown to have a lot less of this bacteria. Therefore, to prevent infections, they’re routinely given zinc supplements and antibiotics from as young as three weeks old. In addition, Chris Hull and Sid Hill, two garden designers keen to study the benefits of microbes garnered from soil for humans, have created an “edible meadow”: a field full of microbe-rich plants to eat. They say that even when brushing against their flowers, walkers are coated with tiny organisms that promote healthy bodies and minds. It is inside the house where Dot’s most splendid asset becomes a problem. While I’ve read that pigs can detect scents from seven miles away or seven metres underground, all I can vouch for is that she’ll know if there’s something in a zipped-up rucksack. Or in a suitcase: hastily lifted out of a car and left carelessly on the drive while the owner dashes to the toilet. Or in closed cupboards with varying types of locks and handles. Or inside an unopened tin of vegetable soup, in a sealed bottle of cooking oil, or a brandnew tetra-brick of milk! All these items and more will be accessed in seconds, the contents slurped out and the remnants pasted all over the carpet. It took the best part of two years for us to work out that EVERYTHING had to be stored higher than she could reach. Perhaps the biggest snout-related concern is that the rest of her body is immensely strong —so it really does work like a snowplough. She can lift anything she can hook her nose under: like pallets and gates and heavy infrastructure positioned to contain horses. No matter the size or weight or if it’s wedged in place with tensioners, obstructions are flicked up and cast high into the air triumphantly. In a matter of seconds. The only thing to keep Dot in place is a stone wall — or something there’s no way she can get her snout under. There are pros and cons to this nosey business. Grazing and fertilising the lawn is handy; destroying the kitchen is not. And we’ve not found a truffle to sell yet. But it does confer her the most irresistible appearance, creates an extraordinary range of sounds, and I get to squidge it.
READERS CORNER
66
JULY 2024
MAKING THE HOUSE HABITABLE Part 4 By Ann Port
After buying our village farmhouse 61 years ago, the first priority was to ensure we had a bathroom installed. This may seem a fairly straightforward affair, but it wasn’t as no bathroom had existed previously. The tiny septic tank was totally inadequate for our needs, let alone for our guests who had no idea how or even why you would want to ration your use of water. They certainly never envisaged that we might have to pay tankers to come and deliver water when our well ran dry. We also had to persuade the builder that the septic tank needed to be 6 times bigger than it was and from which a notable stench was already detectable. The builder agreed to come mañana which turned out to be only 4 days later. I remember him as a big fellow with a sardonic smile and a fat cigar between his teeth. My father was in Barcelona on business at the time and the builder instructed my mother and me to go and stand behind the wall in the road outside our house and put our fingers in our ears. Diligently, we obeyed and at this juncture my mother noticed the 2 sticks of dynamite he had poking out of the back pockets of his trousers (still with cigar in mouth)! Despite the fingers in ears, we heard two enormous bangs. Later he gave us the all-clear and we were able to view the rubble of most of our front garden with somewhat mixed pleasure. And so, the septic tank was built. The chimney was also cleaned by a somewhat unorthodox method, by dropping one of the neighbour’s chickens down it to clear out the soot with its fluttering wings. I’m pleased to say it survived. The tiling of some of the floors and the patio was carried out by friends we had made. The local carpenter, Gabriel, made the traditional Menorcan-style olive wood gates. We had a garage built onto the side of the house and it doubled as a wood store but really very little else was done. The fun for my parents of living in such a simple style can only be explained as being the novelty of a complete contrast to their normal life. It may seem a luxury to have a cook but they can be very territorial and banish you from “their” kitchen, so this afforded my mother the chance to try her hand at cooking. She learned from Elizabeth David cookbooks and some of Fanny Craddock’s and became very competent and a great hostess. The privations of such a simple life took her back I think to her days as a Land Army girl and though there was often frustration, her joy was somewhat akin to my husband’s protestations of “This is the life!” when camping in the Lake District in freezing wet conditions, eating baked beans from tin plates and suffering wind howling through your tent while bugs crawl all over you. My mother decided to keep the rustic kitchen with its earthenware bowls as sinks. The coloured tiles were pretty but the cupboards were basically plywood with patterned cutouts in the shape of a daisy, presumably for air circulation. Fortunately, she didn’t go as far as relying on the built-in larder and invested in modern appliances. Because of the water shortage the floors in the main rooms were not scrubbed with soap and water but brushed with a besom (a broom made of twigs) to remove dust and sand which was always plentiful. They were then brushed with a mixture of linseed and sawdust which gave a pleasant smell and an even pleasanter shiny appearance. I must add that it wasn’t my mother who learned how to do this. Labour was cheap and plentiful in those days and so we had a lovely, very old lady from the village (more of whom later when I come to ‘The Great Fire’) who cleaned for us, another who took our washing and a chap who was happy to care for the garden without payment He was content to treat it as an allotment, give us some of the produce and have the rest for his family and any remainder to sell. He was very pleased with the arrangement and went on to have his own “terreno” where he had an irrigation system and even a banana tree. It took over his retirement, more or less. My mother still had room for her pots of flowers as gardening was one of her hobbies. Our house had been uninhabited for a while before our purchase. Well, that isn’t quite true! The lizards seemed quite at home upstairs and would shoot under the shelves when we entered the bedroom. The ants were still outside until our English guests left an ensaimada in the bread bin! My father was “Head Ant Hunter” and he took his job very seriously. You could see shades of the old Major in him as he ruthlessly eliminated them calling them “little blighters” or worse! The first weapon was an old-fashioned vacuum pump filled with some noxious substance but then he moved onto aerosol cans of ever-increasing dimensions almost fit to rival a gas butano. Not for him the old wives’ tale of washing-up liquid as he considered Mistral useless for just about anything. It was all-out war and only an ambush would suffice. Once we had a scorpion in the dining room, but it was spotted before it could do any harm. Apart from the occasional daddy-long-legs or spider in England we had never had much contact with the various “bichos” we were to become familiar with in Menorca. This was a whole new world to discover and I could spend ages watching big, black beetles, ants, the praying mantis, the geckos and the tortoises in our garden and listening to the hoopoes and crickets. The lizards darting around the dry stone walls seemed to be bigger in those days and more plentiful. Next Month: Local characters and the ‘Great Fire’ D O N ’ T M I S S A N E D I T I O N , S U B S C R I B E T O D AY ! V I S I T: R O Q U E TA M A G A Z I N E . N E T