Sa Mesquida to Arenal d'en Castell (approx. 22 km)
This stage of the Camí de Cavalls from Sa Mesquida to Arenal d’en Castell is a true nature experience and one of the most diverse sections in the northeast of Menorca. Shortly after leaving Sa Mesquida, the trail enters the area of Binilautí, which includes hilly parts and beautiful views. Soon you reach the Parc Natural de S’Albufera des Grau, the island’s most important protected natural area and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. S’Albufera is the ecological heart of Menorca and the flagship of the reserve.
Here, hikers walk through peaceful landscapes of wetlands, pine forests, and open coastal terrain rich in birdlife and Mediterranean flora. If you are lucky you get to see Menorcas flamingos! Walking along the beautiful eastern part of Menorca you pass many small and larger beaches until you get to the area of Favàritx. (If you wish, you can take a detour to the lighthouse – very much recommended).
One of the highlights along this stage are the (no longer in operation) Salines de Mongofre, where with a bit of luck you can also spot flamingos and other water birds in the shallow salt lagoons — a surprising and memorable sight. The path continues through remote countryside and along untouched coastline, offering a sense of wild Menorca far from the busy tourist areas. Further along, the route passes near Port d’Addaia, a charming natural harbour surrounded by white houses and boats gently rocking in the marina. It is a perfect place for a scenic pause before continuing towards the north coast. The stage ends at Arenal d’en Castell, where one of Menorca’s most beautiful bays opens up: a wide, crescent-shaped beach with fine sand and turquoise water. After a day through nature reserves, salt flats, and quiet coastal paths, arriving here feels both rewarding and relaxing — a perfect combination of nature and sea.
