PLAYAS de FORNELLS
Area: Minorca
Country: Spain


Location:
On the N coast, 15 miles NW of Mahon, 17 miles NW of the airport.

Telephone code from UK:
34

Position:
Clinging to one side of a rugged inlet, facing gently rolling countryside and rather barren coastal plateau.

Description:
This purpose-built resort in the style of a Spanish fishing village is rather clinical, with a distinct lack of atmosphere. Steep streets climb from one side of the beach, meandering through attractive developments of private and holiday villas with pretty gardens and fine views. 2 miles E, on a broad bay, is the original village of Fornells _ a sleepy harbour town barely touched by developers _ which retains a welcome authentic flavour.

Suitability:
Middlemarket tourists in search of a quiet holiday. Playa de Fornells's steep streets are not suitable for the infirm; but the old village of Fornells is flat, accessible and will appeal to those seeking traditional character.

Accommodation:
Predominantly private villas and self-catering apartments. Fornells village has a couple of charming small hotels.

Shopping:
Bare essentials, though Fornells village has a handful of souvenir shops and specialist stores.

Beach:
Wide curving bay backed by dunes has fine, gently shelving sands flanked by low cliffs.

Entertainments:
Daytime: harbour trips, sailing and windsurfing are centred around the old village; walks to ancient ruins; donkey safaris. Nightlife: very limited.

Eating:
Limited selection of eateries. Fornells village has several renowned seafood restaurants lining the waterfront.

Public-transport:
3 buses daily to Mahon.

Local-excursions:
Boat trips; otherwise see Mahon.