Find information on Es Castell in our Travel Guide covering sights, foods and nightlife plus more...
Es Castell at the mouth of the Port Mahon is the most easterly town in Minorca. It was considered to be the most strategically important area of the island which is why the capital was moved from Ciutadella during British rule. The military history of Es Castell is evident in the town square which was once the parade ground. Its name ‘the castle’ derives from its closeness to the now demolished fort of San Felip.
Es Castell is a very Georgian English looking resort except for the day long sunshine. It is a lively resort with wide ranging facilities and benefits from its closeness to Mahon.
An Es Castell holiday has wide ranging popularity although families with small children looking for sand and sea will not find it on their doorstep. Holiday makers who do not want to spend their days on the beach will find Es Castell with its two attractive coves and the nearby city Mahon an ideal destination. The beach at Cala Pedera is close to Es Castell.
The holiday season in Es Castell begins in April and lasts until late October with temperatures ranging from the twenties to the mid thirties.
Es Castell, three kilometres from Mahon in the east of Minorca, is centred round two very striking coves. Calas Fonts,a small fishing harbour at the entrance to the Port de Mao, looks out across the water to Illa del Latzeret which in the past was an isolation hospital. Originally a peninsula, the island was formed when a channel was excavated to cut the hospital off from the mainland. This was done in order to prevent the escape of infectious patients. The architecture of Es Castell is unique on the island with its Georgian buildings built during British occupation. The town square, once the garrison’s parade ground, is surrounded by very English-looking buildings. The harbour is a hub of activity by both day and night. The many bars and restaurants lining the pavements in the harbour are the perfect place to enjoy this bustling port. There are opportunities for a variety of water sports including sailing, wind surfing, paragliding and diving. There are also boat trips up the bay with wonderful views of Mahon perched on the cliffs. The prehistoric village of Trepuca, part of which has been excavated, is near to Es Castell. It dates back to around 1500BC. The T-shaped Taula Stones are like a smaller version of those found at Stonehenge. Those who like a little sea and sand will find it at Cala Pedera.
There are many lively bars and restaurants in Es Castell particularly around the harbour but is not a resort that parties until dawn. Entertainment is a little more restrained. Even in Mahon most venues close by 2am. Es Castell is a place for strolling around in the warmth of the evening enjoying the splendour of the illuminated buildings and watching the bobbing masts of the many yachts moored on the quay.
There are excellent shopping opportunities in both Es Castell and Mahon with many designer shops and boutiques. In Es Castell, the markets so loved by holidaymakers, are open twice weekly. There are always a great number of people selling local crafts ideal for presents and holiday mementos. As with all markets in Minorca, they open at eight and close around two thus avoiding the afternoon heat.
Es Castell and its surrounding area can surely be said to cater for everyone. There is every kind of eating establishment from fast food to traditional fish restaurants and from British pub food to international cuisine. The local wines are very palatable and inexpensive. Children, held in great affection by the Spanish, are always given a warm welcome.
