Once upon a time there was a charming white village; small, bright, quiet, as if taken from the most wonderful fairy-tale and drawn throughout a multitude of narrow streets in which to lose oneself, dream and let oneself go. This town that looks like it’s taken from a postcard is only 10 km away from Mahón, on the southeast coast of Menorca. Its name: Binibeca Vell.
Origins and evolution
Binibeca Vell is one of the most recent villages in Spain. Built between the late 60s and early 70s to recreate (with the clear purpose of attracting tourists) a traditional Menorcan fishing harbour, this town has become one of the ‘musts’ if you drop by this Balearic island. Completely restored and taken care of to the smallest detail, it is barely made up of 165 houses that faithfully represent the essence of a typical Mediterranean coastal village, sharing many similarities with the beautiful references typical of the Greek Islands.
The ‘walking’ mode is your best option in order to stroll through this small town. Walk through its streets in a relaxed way, without hustle, almost keeping a mystical, evocative silence. Binibeca Vell is a small and fabulous labyrinth the streets of which flow into the peaceful and always welcoming Mediterranean Sea.
But in spite of its beauty, this town also has its detractors, since it is often considered that the visit to this town can be misleading because the tourist is not visiting a real town, but something that in some occasions can resemble a theme park or even a decorated movie.
White brushstrokes in Binibeca
In addition to being surprised by each of the town’s corners and the architectural structure of the town, where its houses seem to join one another in perfect harmony, do not forget to visit its small and secluded church, its main square as well as the promenade: these were the first three constructions in Binibeca Vell.
The tiny pier where the city walk ends is also breathtaking, since it is there where the boats are hit by the waves. Pay attention to its wooden balconies, its doors in a thousand and one ways, the paving of its floors and the white of the roofs.
As a curiosity, look for Casa Candi among all the houses, since this was the first one that was built; but do it calmly, respecting the rest of the people who live there (the majority, temporary inhabitants), as some of the posters on the walls say. But above all, enjoy the rustic and seafaring essence that makes this enclave one of those towns in Menorca that you will never want to leave.
Additionally, we would suggest you to avoid visiting this town during the month of August. Try to not visit Binibeca during those days of heat, since part of the town will lose its charm due to the number of tourists you will meet along the way.
Surroundings of this town
If you have been attracted to Menorca to be in contact with the sea you should not forget to swim in the nearby “calas” of San Luis (Turqueta, Mitjana or Macarrella). In addition to the beach of Binibeca – fine sand, crystal clear waters and the beautiful pine forest that surrounds it – you can also go to the sandbanks of Biniancolla, Binisafuller, Biniparratx, Binidalí or Punta Prima (in front of the “Isla del Aire”).
But if you are all about history (or rather, pre-history) you can visit the Talayotic town of Trepucó or Talatí de Dalt (just 6 and 8 km away, respectively), the Fort of Marlborough (7 km away) or the capital of Menorca, Mahón (about 10 km away).
And finally, and to toast to all those postcard towns, both Minorcanz and Mallorcans, come by the Cave d’en Xoroi, a natural cave located on a steep cliff turned into an impressive cocktail bar. It is worth a visit when the sun sets on the island!
We only need to give you one more recommendation, whether or not you are a photography lover: do not forget the camera in the hotel and / or charge your mobile phone to be able to portray the “white dream” of Menorca: Binibeca Vell.
