Fornells is a beautiful fishing village located in the north of the island of Menorca and it belongs administratively to the municipality of Es Mercadal. They emphasize its impressive bay of more than three kilometers of length and the fishermen’s port.
History of Fornells
The beginnings of the town date back to the 5th century A.D., as is attested by the basilica paleochristian basilica basilica in the port. In the Middle Ages a watchtower was built on La Mola on the other side of the port of Fornells to watch over and protect the north coast of the island.
There was a series of sackings, such as that of the corsair Barbarossa on Mahón or the pirate attack of 1558 on Ciutadella in which it was decided to build a castle for military defense, “Sant Antoni” in 1662.
The castle of “Sant Antoni
The Castle of San Antoni gave rise to the birth around the castle of a small population center that can be considered as the origin of the village, so the first Fornellers were soldiers, and their relatives, who came from the Castle of San Felipe in Villacarlos.
Defense towers
the Fornells Defense Tower is one of the largest defense towers on the island and was built during the period of British rule, between 1801 and 1802, to guard and protect the entrance to the port of Fornells.
It is shaped like a small impregnable castle and is built with mortar stone and sandstone reinforcements.
We can also observe the tower of the island of “Ses sargantanes”, smaller in size, but located in the center of the beautiful bay.
Information of interest
• In summer, every Monday there is a food market is held every Monday with products of Menorca that receives many visitors.
• The patron saint festivities of Fornells are those of Sant Antoni (Saint Anthony), which are celebrated on the Fourth weekend of July
Gastronomy
Fornells is widely recognized for its gastronomy, offering a wide variety of restaurants ranging from those specialized in traditional dishes to the most innovative ones.
One of its most emblematic dishes is the caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), an ancient and delicious recipe that gained even more prestige thanks to King Juan Carlos, who used to enjoy it every summer, contributing to its fame.
What to visit
It highlights its small fishing port with its majestic bay in the background, where you can take a pleasant walk along its promenade, which crosses the entire town, until you reach the end, at the mouth of the harbor.
There is a viewpoint with magnificent views towards the entrance of the port. From this point, a path leads to an elevated area, where the tower of Fornells is located.
In the center of the town you can visit the Church of Sant Antoni, built in 1647, which is located next to the old governor’s houses, surrounded by quiet and charming streets, with its typical whitewashed houses that characterize the town.
Near Fornells
The municipality of Es Mercadal has many elements of interest to visit, for its history, culture, traditions, gastronomy nature, landscapes, beaches, coves, monuments… Here are some places to visit near Fornells:
Nearest beaches
Beaches and coves of the municipality (north coast)
Top rated accommodations
Here are some of the most highly rated accommodations with the best reviews.
La Palma Hostel
Located in the center of town, Hostal La Palma offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi.
Guests can enjoy its outdoor swimming pool and restaurant specializing in seafood.
Its proximity to the port and the beaches of the north coast makes it an ideal choice for exploring the natural beauty of Menorca.
La Palma Apartments
La Palma Apartments offer comfortable and well equipped accommodation, ideal for families and couples looking for tranquility in Menorca.
With a privileged location near the harbor and local beaches, these apartments allow you to fully enjoy the natural beauty and gastronomy of the island.
Port Fornells Guesthouse
Hostal Port Fornells, located in the urbanization of Ses Salines in Fornells, offers its guests an authentic experience in a quiet environment.
With comfortable rooms and personalized attention, it is ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
Its proximity to the port allows easy access to nautical activities and local gastronomy.
Leisure activities in Fornells
Image gallery
How to get there
Go to Fornells now (open GPS navigation map)
Explore map of the municipality
Websites of interest
Tourist information of the municipality of Es Mercadal: Ayuntamiento de Es Mercadal – www.esmercadal.com
