Arenal d en Castell Travel Guide

Arenal d'en Castell is a laid-back, peaceful holiday resort popular with British families and a far cry from the over-developed, bustling resorts of Mallorca. Situated on the northern coast of Minorca (Menorca), Arenal d'en Castell is roughly 12 miles (20km) north of Mahon, the island's capital, and is set in a beautiful horseshoe bay on steep hills that slope down to a lovely beach. This means the resort is not ideal for the elderly, or those with mobility problems, but the beach is a magnificent place to relax and has good swimming in warm, shallow waters. It's one of the larger resorts on the northeast coast and is widely celebrated as having one of the most picturesque resort beaches on the island. Arenal d'en Castell is ideal for families or couples who want a peaceful beach holiday. The region is popular for fishing and sailing, and there are a number of water sports on offer for adventurous holidaymakers. Most entertainment is provided by hotels, so there's little in the way of nightlife, other than several good restaurants and a few lively bars. For those seeking more activity, the nearby holiday resort of Son Parc offers the island's only golf course, as well as shopping opportunities.

Shopping

Arenal has a small commercial centre with a few decent supermarkets and gift shops, but it's no shopper's paradise. Neighbouring Es Mercadal has a lovely Sunday market worth exploring while on holiday. Visitors should be able to find everything they need in the way of basic supplies and souvenirs, but designer stores are thin on the ground.

Restaurants

Arenal has a good selection of restaurants, including pizzerias, pubs and seafood restaurants, and a variety of budgets are catered for. There are a number of bars and restaurants along the beachfront that are ideal for sundowners.

Nightlife

Arenal d'en Castell isn't a nightlife hub and there are no nightclubs; however, there are some fun bars that stay open until late in the summer months, and many of the hotels offer nighttime entertainment.

Holiday activities

The lovely, spacious beach is the centre of activity at the resort, but the fun mainly consists of languid sun tanning, swimming, strolling and sunset-watching. The bay is great for boating due to the calm water; pedaloes are available for rent on the beach. The nearby water sports hub of Fornells offers sailing, kayaking, windsurfing and scuba diving, and there's an 18-hole golf course at Son Parc, a short drive distant. A good holiday excursion is a trip to Mount Toro, whichis the island's highest peak and home to an ancient monastery.

Any negatives?

The lack of a party scene may disappoint those in search of a vibrant nightlife.