The Camí de Cavalls: 20 stages at different paces

The Camí de Cavalls (literally, the "Path of the Horses") dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was used to protect the coastline from possible attacks. Although its origins are linked to the reign of King Jaime II, it was during the British and French periods that the route became particularly important, providing communication between the island's watchtowers and lookout posts.

Today, this remarkable trail is divided into 20 official stages, marked by small wooden signposts. Starting and ending in the port of Maó, it circles the entire island. Each stage offers a different distance and level of difficulty.

The best part? You don't need to complete the entire route. You can simply choose a shorter section leading to a secluded cove, a lighthouse or a scenic viewpoint, before returning to your starting point. Whether you have a few hours, a day or several days, the Camí de Cavalls can be enjoyed entirely at your own pace.

Easy Camí de Cavalls trails

Which experience are you looking for? Hidden coves or Mediterranean forests? Each of the easy Camí de Cavalls trails we've selected offers a different side of Menorca.

Dunes and beaches: Arenal d’en Castell - Son Saura del Nord

A short and easy walk that showcases some of the most beautiful landscapes on Menorca's northern coast, with spectacular sea views, dramatic cliffs, sandy dunes and Mediterranean vegetation. This trail follows part of Stage 4 of the Camí de Cavalls.

The walk begins on the western side of Arenal d'en Castell, along the Vía de Ronda, where you'll find access to the trail. The first section follows the coastline, offering stunning views across the Mediterranean from the clifftops before reaching the Son Parc residential area.

After around 20 minutes, you'll arrive at the Son Parc car park, the gateway to Son Saura del Nord. From here, a beautiful stretch of beach unfolds, framed by dunes, pine trees and native vegetation. It's the perfect place for a swim, a moment of relaxation or simply taking in the scenery before returning along the same route.

What you need to know:

• Distance: Approximately 5 km return.
• Duration: Just over one hour, excluding stops and time spent at the beach. Ideal for enjoying a few hours in the open air.
• Difficulty: Easy, although the first section is rocky and follows the cliff edge.
• Extra tip: If you'd like to extend the walk, continue towards s'Albufera des Comte, where wetlands, pine forests and a completely different natural landscape await.

Dark cliffs and turquoise waters: Favàritx – Cala Tortuga

This short and easy route is perfect for discovering one of the most distinctive landscapes in northeast Menorca, where dark volcanic rock contrasts with pristine beaches. It forms part of Stage 2 of the Camí de Cavalls.

The walk begins on the road leading to Favàritx Lighthouse, one of Menorca's most iconic landmarks. From there, look for the signposted trail towards Es Grau. After a few minutes, you'll reach the turn-off to Cala Presili. Continue along the path until you find the access to Cala Tortuga, also known as Arenal de Morella. This peaceful beach is known for its calm, shallow waters and unspoilt natural surroundings.

Before heading down to the shore, take a moment to admire the spectacular views over the cove and the Bassa de Morella, a small lagoon nestled within the s'Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve. When you're ready, simply retrace your steps back along the same route.

What you need to know:

• Distance: Approximately 3.5 km return from the trail access. If starting from the car park, the total distance is around 5.4 km.
• Duration: About 50 minutes return, excluding stops. It’s a perfect trail to enjoy a few hours immersed in nature or a leisurely half-day excursion.
• Difficulty: Easy, although the descent to the beach is slightly steep in places.
• Don't miss the opportunity to visit Favàritx Lighthouse and admire the striking contrast between the black slate landscape, the deep blue Mediterranean and the lighthouse's brilliant white façade. Before setting out, check whether vehicle access restrictions are in place on the lighthouse road. If so, the L43 bus is a convenient alternative.

Virgin coves and wetland scenery: Es Grau - Cala Tamarells

This beautiful walk is an invitation to explore s'Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve, one of Menorca's most important protected natural areas. Part of Stage 2 of the Camí de Cavalls, the route passes through wetlands, pine forests and secluded coves that remain largely undiscovered by visitors.

The trail begins beside the entrance to s'Albufera des Grau, approximately 400 metres from the village of Es Grau. After crossing a wooden footbridge over the water, you'll follow the path through fragrant pine woodland until reaching Es Grau Beach, a peaceful stretch of fine golden sand.

From there, continue following the signs towards Cala Tamarells, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline and the silhouette of Torre de Rambla, one of Menorca's historic coastal watchtowers. Once you reach the cove, take the opportunity to swim in its crystal-clear waters before returning along the same route.

What you need to know:

• Distance: Approximately 5 km return.
• Duration: Around 1 hour 30 minutes, excluding stops. Ideal for a day trip of a few hours.
• Difficulty: Easy, although the descent to Cala Tamarells includes some uneven terrain and a moderate slope.
• Extra tip: If you'd like to extend the walk, take a detour to one of the viewpoints overlooking s'Albufera des Grau. You'll be rewarded with wonderful views across the park and, if you're lucky, the chance to spot some of its many water birds.

Seaside villages and historic fortresses: Punta Prima – Cala de Sant Esteve

This route along Menorca’s southeast coast takes you past crystal-clear coves, traditional fishing villages and centuries-old coastal fortifications. It forms part of Stage 19 of the Camí de Cavalls.

While there are no significant climbs, it is longer than the previous routes, making it especially suitable for those who are comfortable with longer walks.

The trail begins in Punta Prima, in the municipality of Sant Lluís, following the Camí de Cavalls signs eastwards. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Illa de l’Aire Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Menorca, standing on a small uninhabited islet just offshore.

Continue towards the Torre d’Alcaufar, an 18th-century watchtower built to protect this stretch of coastline. Soon after, you’ll reach a charming cove lined with seafront houses.  From here, the route moves inland along the Camí de Rafalet, crossing residential areas and passing the characteristic dry-stone walls that are such a distinctive feature of Menorca’s landscape. The walk ends at Cala de Sant Esteve, a picturesque inlet dotted with small jetties and traditional fishing boats. Here you can also admire Fort Marlborough, an 18th-century British fortress built to defend the entrance to the port of Maó.

What you need to know:

• Distance: about 7.3 km one way.
• Duration: about 2 hours and 40 minutes one way or half a day if you arrange transport for the return journey.
• Difficulty: Easy, although there are some uneven sections and a few road crossings.
• Bonus tip: If Menorca’s military heritage interests you, take time to visit Fort Marlborough. The fort offers fascinating insight into the island’s history, along with impressive views over the harbour.