Located on the north of the island, the resort of Arenal D'en Castell is particularly popular with British families. The main focal point of the resort is the horse shoe shaped sandy beach which has calm shallow waters which is perfect for children to play and paddle. The beach also offers a variety of water sports and there is a selection of bars and cafe close by for refreshments.
The resort offers a fairly quiet night life with evenings spent enjoying one of the many bars and restaurants. Many of the hotels in the resort offer evening entertainment on site.
Car hire is widely available and is recommended for those who wish to explore the island. The capital of Menorca, Mahon, is approx a 20 minute drive away and makes a great day out.
The resort of Arenal D'en Castell is situated approx 27 km from the airport.
Insider's View
One of Menorca's oldest - and best - resorts, Arenal may look a little tired at the edges at times, but it's one of the few places on the island where a good holiday is guaranteed. The fact that so many people come back year after year says a great deal about the place.
Set around a curved sandy beach, the steep slopes leading down to the bay are home to a handful of hotels, apartment complexes and private villas. Despite their age (some of the hotels date back over 30 years), they've evolved to continue keeping visitors content, with hotels offering endless activities, clubs and entertainment. The natural beauty of the cove also works in their favour, its waters are calm on all but the wildest of days and it's great not only for swimming, but for renting a kayak or pedalo too. Or just walking along the shore and convincing yourself that this counts as exercise. Working your way back up to the main street is sure to get you out of breath - the maze of staircases around the Poblado Marinero apartments are real thigh-burners - and ascending them justifies a stop at the Italian ice cream parlour at the top. That's my philosophy at least.
Out and about, there are many bars, restaurants and play areas. Before you even reach Arenal, the Coves Noves shopping centre has bouncy castles, pool tables and other games around a central square meaning the children can play while you finish your meal in peace - Flamingo's a good choice for traditional Spanish food. In Arenal itself, the Irish and Aussie Bars compete to fill you with draught beer of an evening with only a road separating the two - both of these themed bars have standard offerings of sports coverage, pool tables and music. And if you're in need of a non-touristy dose of quiet, fishing village Na Macaret is a short walk away.
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Arenal d'en Castell Hotels
Arenal Playa Hotel The Arenal Playa Hotel is made up of 11 villas and accommodation units set in a quiet area ideal for