WITH the temperature hitting 26C, I almost forget that summer is over as I gaze across the sea from my hotel balcony.
The crisp sunshine, along with the lush rolling hills and total tranquillity, make Menorca the ideal shoulder season destination.
And to make my autumn trip all the sweeter, I would soon be shown the best of the island’s food and wine in the hotel restaurant upstairs.
Experts at the adults-only Tui Blue Victoria Menorca guided me through the top local wines before I enjoyed a tasting menu in front of a picture-perfect sunset.
The hotel will be sizzling in summer but even in spring and autumn, there’s plenty of sunshine and lots to keep you amused.
With cooler temperatures, you’re able to sightsee in comfort too, and with this in mind I went on a tour of the beautiful harbour capital of Mahon.
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I was whisked away in comfort, with my bus passing a stunning unspoilt landscape of sweeping green fields.
Our group’s well-informed guide Francis gave a tremendous insight into the history of the island — before taking us to a gin distillery.
We drank the best of cult local gin Xoriguer’s selection, but it was Pomada — a refreshing combination of its gin and lemonade — that proved the winner.
Francis finished the day by taking us on a trip to Cova d’en Xoroi, which is one of the most stunning spots in the world for a drink or two.
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The views from this bar, delicately carved into the cliffside, top the packed-out spots of neighbouring Majorca and Ibiza.
Sunsets are almost better here when the sky is lightly dotted with clouds in spring and autumn.
For those still looking for a party, the bar transforms into a nightclub during the summer months.
However, there is no shortage of adventure in late September.
There’s plenty on offer — and the weather to match it — from snorkelling, hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing.
Some of the finest views of the island came from a kayak.
On our trip we saw eagles in the sky and goats climbing the cliffs of the village of Fornells.
After two hours spent hopping from sea to secluded beaches we toured the vineyard of Binifadet and sampled its bottles.
Chic sanctuary
I left with a refreshed knowledge on pairings and a newly found appreciation for Menorca’s unique light wines.
For lovers of cheese, try an excursion to Binissues manor house and farm for a charming tour.
Our Spanish guide, looking the part in traditional dress, ran our group through the process of making the estate’s famous cheeses.
The demonstration, given against a backdrop of palm trees and grazing cows, was followed by a tasting session.
After an intoxicating few days of wine, gin and delicious food, the hotel offered plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
Thanks to an upgrade this year, guests can now enjoy a swim or sunbathe on the new rooftop pool and terrace, along with a pamper in the new spa, complete with Finnish sauna, or a relaxing yoga session.
Set alongside a sandy beach, the hotel also has a lovely infinity-style pool overlooking the sea.
My room, a chic sanctuary, was always well stocked with water and snacks courtesy of the free Tui app.
Splash a little more cash and there are rooms with plunge pools as well as sunbeds on the terrace.
And guests are never without entertainment, with Motown acts, DJs and Latin singers on offer most nights.
The hotel is just a short stroll from the coastal village of Santo Tomas, but Menorca has more than 125 miles of coastline to explore.
And shoulder season is the perfect time to step out and stroll.
The island is as green as England and its water is clearer than glass.
Even when it’s hot, a local wind balances it out nicely.
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At twice the size of the Isle of Wight — with many parts left wild and a distinct lack of crowds — Menorca stands out as a paradise of the Med.
For spring or autumn sunshine it can’t be beaten.
GO: Menorca
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Daniel Hammond
