The Camí de Cavalls (GR-223) is the historic path that circles Menorca along the coast. It’s about 185 kilometers that pass through pristine coves, cliffs, cultivated fields, lighthouses, and protected natural areas. Today, it is a marked path that can be traveled in stages, on foot or, in some sections, by bicycle.
In this guide, written by Daniel Vaquera, a local official guide from Voyager Menorca, you will find a simple explanation of what the Camí de Cavalls is, which sections we recommend if you only have one or two days, how to decide which area to walk in depending on the wind, and what you need to bring to enjoy it safely. The idea is that you can use this text both to organize your own trip and to have a clear foundation if you decide to come with a local guide.
Guide contents
- What is the Camí de Cavalls and what is the terrain like?
- Why do it with a local guide?
- Recommended sections if you have 1 or 2 days
- When to go and how to choose the area according to the wind
- Practical tips: water, equipment, and transportation
- Do you want us to help you organize it?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Camí de Cavalls and what is the terrain like?
The Camí de Cavalls is a public path that goes completely around Menorca, following the coastline as much as possible. It has been documented since the Middle Ages as a patrol path to watch over the island on horseback, hence its name. During the 20th century, some sections were located within private farms, but today it has been recovered as a long-distance path (GR-223) and is part of the landscape of the Biosphere Reserve.
The terrain changes quite a bit depending on the area:
- North coast: wilder, with dark rock, ascents and descents, stony sections, and a feeling of open landscape.
- South coast: gentler paths among pine trees, ravines, white sand coves, and turquoise water.
- East and west: a mixture of fields, cliffs, lighthouses, and very wide views towards the sea.
It is not a dangerous path if the sections are chosen well and the signage is respected, but it is worth remembering that there are areas with little shade and other sectors where the ground is uneven. That is why it is important to plan a little before leaving.
2. Why do it with a local guide
The Camí de Cavalls can be traveled independently, but many people appreciate going with a local official guide, especially if it is their first time on the island or if they are traveling as a family or in a group. A guide is not just someone who walks in front, but someone who helps you to:
- Choose the right section according to the level of the group, the time available, and the wind and sea forecast.
- Understand the landscape: history of the path, fauna and flora, dry stone, toponymy, lighthouses, and curiosities of each point.
- Simplify logistics: starting and ending points, possible transfers, where to park, and how to combine the walk with a swim.
- Walk safely, avoiding common mistakes such as lack of water, unrealistic schedules, or exposed areas on Tramuntana days.
In addition, a local guide can recommend other plans for the rest of your stay: what to see in Ciutadella or Maó, which Talayotic sites to visit, or which lighthouse is best suited to the day.
3. Recommended sections if you have 1 or 2 days
If you do not want to go all the way around the island, the most practical thing is to choose one or two representative sections. Here are three very complete and easy-to-adapt options.
3.1 Favàritx → Es Grau (northeast)
Approximate distance: 8–9 km · Difficulty: moderate · Environment: “lunar” landscape, wetlands, and wild coves.
The Favàritx area has dark rock and is part of the Parc Natural de s’Albufera des Grau. The path advances between socarells, low vegetation, and small coves, and little by little it approaches the town of Es Grau, a very protected bay with a wetland and aquatic birds. It is an ideal section to understand the oldest geology of the island.
3.2 Cala Galdana → Macarella / Macarelleta (south)
Approximate distance: 4–5 km · Difficulty: easy · Environment: pine trees, marés cliffs, and picture-postcard coves.
From Cala Galdana, the path advances along natural balconies above the sea, between pine trees and light-colored rock. It is a very pleasant section for families or for those who want to combine walking and swimming. Macarella and Macarelleta are well-known coves: in high season it is advisable to get up early and always follow the access and parking instructions (you have more recommendations in our beach guide).
3.3 Es Alocs → Cala Pilar (north)
Approximate distance: 4–5 km · Difficulty: moderate · Environment: red clays, golden sand, and a feeling of isolation.
In this section, the north shows its wildest character. There are ascents and descents, sections with stone, and areas very open to the wind. The reward is reaching Cala Pilar, a wide beach of reddish sand surrounded by colored slopes. With good afternoon light, the landscape is spectacular.
4. When to go and how to choose the area according to the wind
One of the keys to the Camí de Cavalls is understanding that the wind rules. It is not the same to walk with a calm sea as with a strong Tramuntana. In a simple way, you can take the following into account:
- Spring (March–May): mild temperatures, fewer people, and lots of flowers. It is an ideal time for hiking.
- Summer (June–September): it is hot, so it is best to start early, bring plenty of water, and combine the walk with a swim. Access is controlled in some coves.
- Autumn (October–November): the sea still retains some temperature, there are fewer people, and the sunsets are very beautiful.
- Winter: perfect for those looking for calm and stormy landscapes, especially in the north. You have to wrap up well and check the forecast.
Regarding the wind, a simple rule is this:
- With Tramuntana (north wind), the north coast is more choppy and can be hard to walk and swim in. On those days it is usually better to go south.
- With migjorn (south) wind, the north is cleaner and more pleasant.
A local guide checks the forecast every day and suggests the most suitable coast according to wind, waves, and group level. This makes better use of time and avoids surprises.
5. Practical tips: water, equipment, and transportation
Water, food, and sun
- Bring at least 1.5–2 liters of water per person, more on hot days.
- There are not always bars or fountains during the route, so it is advisable to leave with water and some light food (fruit, nuts, sandwich…).
- In summer, avoid the central hours of the day and look for sections with some shade.
Clothing and footwear
- Closed shoes with a good sole (trekking shoes or similar). In some sections, the rock can slip if it is polished or wet.
- Cap or hat, sunglasses, and high protection sunscreen.
- In winter, a light thermal layer and a windbreaker make the difference.
- If you want to swim, bring a swimsuit and quick-drying towel.
Access and transport
Many sections of the Camí de Cavalls start or end in areas where you can park, but in some coves access is regulated in summer. There are also bus lines that connect with key points (such as Cala Galdana, Son Bou, or Es Grau) depending on the season.
If you are a group, it is sometimes worth hiring a private transfer to make a comfortable linear route: enter through one point, exit through another, and not have to worry about the car. On a guided tour, we usually review the best combination for that particular day.
6. Do you want us to help you organize it?
At Voyager Menorca, we prepare tailor-made trips along the Camí de Cavalls: short routes for families, somewhat longer days for regular hikers, or combinations of several days for those who want to experience the island on foot. We always adapt the itinerary to the wind of the day, the level of the group, and what you feel like doing most (more landscape, more swimming, more explanation…).
If you are interested, you can see all available excursions or write to us directly via WhatsApp so we can propose a simple and realistic plan based on the days you have and your level.
7. Frequently asked questions about the Camí de Cavalls
How many days do I need to do the entire Camí de Cavalls?
The complete route is about 185 km. Most people who do the full tour usually spend between 8 and 12 days, walking between 15 and 25 km per day. If you don’t have that many days, it doesn’t matter: with 2 or 3 well-chosen sections you can get a very good idea of the path.
Is it a suitable path for people without much hiking experience?
It depends on the section. The south coast is usually easier, with gentle paths and less loose stone, and that is why it is ideal to start or to go with children. The north coast is more demanding and is recommended for people with some experience or for days when you find yourself with more energy.
If you have any doubts, it is best to start with an easy section and, if you feel good, gradually increase the difficulty.
What time of year is it best to do the Camí de Cavalls?
The best time to walk is usually spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the island is quieter. In summer it is possible to do it, but it is advisable to get up early, bring plenty of water, and choose sections with shade and the possibility of swimming. In winter the north can be harsh due to the Tramuntana, but it offers very special landscapes for those seeking calm.
Do I need to hire a guide to tour the Camí de Cavalls?
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended in many cases: if you are traveling for a short time, if you want to make the most of the day’s weather, or if you do not want to worry about logistics. A local official guide knows each sector very well, knows which section is suitable according to the wind, and can adapt the pace and explanations to the group.
Can it be done with children?
Yes, as long as short and simple stages are chosen. In the south there are perfect sections for families, with little unevenness, pine shade, and sandy coves where you can stop to play and swim. With children it is important to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and some food, and plan the walk as a quiet activity, without rushing. You can find more ideas in our guide to Menorca with children.
Is any special permit or entrance fee required?
The Camí de Cavalls is a public path and there is no entrance fee to walk along it. There may be regulations in some car parks and access to coves in high season, so it is advisable to check the updated information before going. In any case, the basic rule is to leave the place as you would like to find it: without garbage and respecting the indications.
