Nestled beneath Menorca’s highest point—1,230-foot (375-meter) Mt. Toro—Es Mercadal has origins dating back to the 13th century, and a 14th-century royal decree that established it as the setting of a weekly public market. Today, the old town is composed of a web of pedestrianized streets lined with shops, bakeries, and cafés, and crowned with a restored windmill—converted into a restaurant; it's also home to the whitewashed 18th-century Church of Sant Martí.
After exploring the old quarter, visitors can go beyond the town to see other local attractions. Perhaps venture to Mt. Toro’s summit—either by foot or car—to take in its panoramic island views; check out the nearby Red Indian Rock, a craggy rock formation that draws climbers; or continue to Menorca’s north coast to enjoy its beaches and towns such as Fornells.
Es Mercadal is great for those wanting to experience traditional Menorcan life and culture.
Most of the old quarter is only accessible on foot or bike.
The town hosts an evening artisans’ market every Thursday in the summertime.
Es Mercadal lies 13.6 miles (22 kilometers) northwest of Mahón, just off the island’s main Me-1 highway, making it easily accessible from the capital by car, cab, or bus. To drive there from Mahón or Menorca Airport, follow the Me-1 northward for about 25 minutes before taking a right-hand exit signposted to Es Mercadal and Fornells. You can also catch a #1 or #51 bus to Mercadal from Mahón.
Es Mercadal is busiest in July and August—if you’re planning to visit then and can be flexible, the town is at its quietest before late morning. The best times to browse the shops are through the morning and again in the evening, when they reopen after the daily siesta.
Es Mercadal is known for its locally made sweet treats, so be sure to sample them at the little cake and pastry shops. Must-tries include gooey amargos (almond macaroons) and crunchy carquinyols (almond biscuits)—both fantastic with coffee. Shoppers, meanwhile, should head for Es Mercadal’s summer evening artisans’ market—held every Thursday between mid-June and mid-September—to scout for local leatherware, souvenirs, and culinary delicacies.
