Menorca's ancient military path circumnavigating the entire island along the coast, passing hidden coves, prehistoric sites, lighthouses, and wild landscapes. Day sections from Cala Galdana to Cala Macarella are highly recommended.
The Camí de Cavalls, meaning Path of Horses, is an ancient coastal military trail circumnavigating the entire perimeter of Menorca, covering approximately 185 kilometres. Dating to the fourteenth century, the path was used to patrol the island's shores against pirate raids and was fully restored and opened as the long-distance walking trail GR223 in 2010. The route passes through every coastal type found in the Balearic Islands — limestone cliffs, hidden turquoise coves, windswept heathland, lagoons, and historic fortifications — as well as past Talaiotic prehistoric settlements (talayots and taules) that dot the island's interior and coastline.
The full route is divided into 20 numbered stages, each averaging 8–12 kilometres and typically completable in 3–5 hours. The entire circuit takes 8–10 days for most walkers. The trail is well-signed throughout with GR223 red-and-white markers and yellow wooden Camí de Cavalls posts. No permit is required and the trail is free to walk. Accommodation in village guesthouses, rural hotels (agroturismo), and campsites is available along or near all stages. Maó (Mahón) in the east and Ciutadella in the west are the main gateway towns, both served by regional buses, with Maó airport offering international connections.
Terrain is moderate coastal path with rarely more than 150 metres of elevation gain per stage — significantly less demanding than Mallorca's Tramuntana trails. The surface alternates between rocky coastal track, sandy scrubland path, and occasional paved stretches through hamlets. Key highlights include the pristine twin coves of Cala Macarella and Cala Turqueta on the southwest coast (stages 14–16), the dramatic north coast cliffs between Cala Pregonda and Cala Pilar, Cap de Cavalleria lighthouse at the island's northernmost point, and the Naveta des Tudons megalithic tomb near Ciutadella. Dozens of accessible coves along the route offer swimming directly from the trail in clear Mediterranean water suitable for snorkelling.
Day walkers frequently focus on the southern stages between Cala Galdana and Cala Macarella, widely considered among the finest coastal day hikes in the Balearic Islands.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Circumference of Menorca
- Best season
- May to June and September to October (avoid July–August heat and overcrowding)
Highlights
- Cala Macarella
- Cala Turqueta
- Cap de Cavalleria lighthouse
- Prehistoric talayots
Tips for visiting
- The southern stages between Cala Galdana and Cala Macarella (stages 14–15) are the most scenic for day walkers and are easily accessed by car or bus from Ferreries.
- Book accommodation well in advance for summer — options near the southern coves fill up months ahead in July and August.
- Carry cash for rural cafés and guesthouses along the route; card payment is not available at all stops.
- Sun protection is essential on all stages — the coastal path has limited shade, and sea breeze can mask the intensity of UV exposure.
- The Consell Insular de Menorca publishes an official GR223 stage guide with transport and accommodation notes, available at tourist offices in Maó and Ciutadella.
When to visit
May to June and September to October provide the best balance of comfortable temperatures, accessible accommodation, and warm seas for swimming at the coves along the route. July and August are very hot and accommodation must be secured many months in advance.
Accessibility
The Camí de Cavalls is not accessible to wheelchair users or strollers due to rocky coastal terrain, sandy paths, and uneven surfaces throughout all stages. However, some coves adjacent to trailheads — such as Cala Macarella — can be reached by paved vehicle access roads from nearby villages.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to walk the full Camí de Cavalls?
The full 185-kilometre route typically takes 8–10 days at a moderate pace, depending on fitness and time spent at coves. Individual stages average 8–12 kilometres and 3–5 hours walking time.
Is the trail suitable for beginners?
Most stages are accessible to fit beginners, as elevation gains are modest. The southern stages are particularly recommended for first-time long-distance walkers. Good footwear, sun protection, and adequate water are essential on all stages.
When is the best time to walk the Camí de Cavalls?
May to June and September to October offer ideal conditions — mild temperatures, warm enough sea for swimming, and manageable trail traffic. July and August are very hot and accommodation must be booked months in advance.
Can I walk individual sections rather than the full route?
All 20 stages are accessible independently. Tourist offices in Maó and Ciutadella provide individual stage maps with notes on public transport connections, making the trail well-suited to day hikers covering selected sections.
Are dogs permitted on the Camí de Cavalls?
Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be kept on a lead through protected areas and near nesting sites. Some accommodation along the route accepts dogs; always confirm when booking as policies vary between properties.