GR223 (Cami de Cavalls)
GR223 Cami de Cavalls: Complete Guide to Hiking Menorca’s Famous Coastal Trail
Embark on an unforgettable adventure around the island of Menorca with the GR223 (Cami de Cavalls), a legendary coastal trail renowned for its breathtaking Mediterranean views. This historic path winds for 185 kilometers along rugged cliffs, stretches of golden sand beaches, secluded coves, and tranquil pine forests, offering hikers a diverse and immersive experience into the island’s rich natural and cultural heritage. As you traverse windswept headlands and turquoise bays, you’ll encounter ancient watchtowers, charming whitewashed villages, and a kaleidoscope of flora and fauna unique to Menorca.
Whether you’re traversing rocky tracks above crashing waves or passing through flowering meadows and oak groves, each stage of the journey reveals a new perspective on one of Spain’s most unspoiled islands. The Cami de Cavalls is not just a hike—it’s an exploration of Menorca’s timeless beauty, providing both challenge and serenity to adventurers of all levels.
Route Overview
The GR223 (Cami de Cavalls) is a point-to-point trail that circles the entire coastline of Menorca, typically starting and finishing in Mahon (Maó), the island’s capital. The route can be completed in either direction and is divided into 20 official stages, each ending in a town, village, or designated stopping point such as Cala Morell, Fornells, Son Bou, Ciutadella, and Cala Galdana. The trail spans approximately 185 kilometers and generally takes 10 days to complete, with most stages ranging from 8 to 14 kilometers.
Trail conditions change throughout, featuring a combination of dirt, rocky, and gravel paths. The route remains mostly at low altitude, with the highest point at only 125 meters above sea level, and includes a total elevation gain around 1300 meters. Some stages border steep cliffs or traverse open, windy headlands; others meander through pine woods, dunes, or alongside rural farmland. While the trail is well-marked and maintained, hikers should expect some remote segments with limited services. Overnight accommodation options—hotels, hostels, campsites, and wild camping spots—are available along the route, but advance booking is advised, especially during peak seasons.
The GR223 passes close to numerous beaches, coves, historical watchtowers, and lighthouses, as well as several protected natural parks. Water sources, restrooms, and picnic areas are located in larger settlements and established beach areas, but self-sufficiency is required in quieter, undeveloped sections. Hikers can customize their itinerary by combining stages or making use of local transport where possible.
The History and Origins of the Cami de Cavalls
The Cami de Cavalls traces its origins back to the 14th century, when King Jaume II of Mallorca ordered the creation of a coastal path encircling Menorca. Its purpose was strategic: to defend the island against pirate attacks and foreign invasions, enabling soldiers—often mounted on horseback, hence the name "Cami de Cavalls" or "Way of the Horses"—to rapidly patrol and protect the coastline. Over the centuries, the trail became a vital thoroughfare for military movement, communication, and transportation between the network of watchtowers, lighthouses, and fortifications that still dot Menorca’s shores today.
During the British and French occupations in the 18th and early 19th centuries, the path’s military significance continued, with foreign powers investing in the maintenance and expansion of the route for their defense installations. As military threats faded, stretches of the trail fell into disrepair and were reclaimed by nature or private landholds.
In recent decades, local efforts and growing appreciation for Menorca’s historical and natural heritage have led to the full restoration of the Cami de Cavalls as a public hiking route. Today, traversing this ancient path not only offers a journey through stunning landscapes but also a walk through centuries of history, connecting hikers to the stories, struggles, and resilience of Menorca’s people.
Notable highlights
Favàritx Lighthouse: Perched atop dramatic black slate cliffs on Menorca’s northeast coast, this iconic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the lunar-like landscapes of the Albufera des Grau Natural Park.
Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta: Two of Menorca’s most stunning beaches, featuring turquoise waters, fine white sand, and pine-covered cliffs. These coves are renowned for their postcard-perfect scenery and tranquil swimming opportunities.
Son Bou Beach: The island’s longest stretch of sand, Son Bou captivates with its expansive dunes, clear waters, and nearby archaeological remains of a paleochristian basilica.
Binigaus Gorge and Cave: Near Sant Tomàs, the trail passes through a lush gorge leading to the Cova des Coloms, a vast cave known as “The Cathedral” for its grandeur, inviting exploration and awe.
Cap de Cavalleria: This wild, windswept headland is famed for its historic lighthouse, dramatic red-sand beach, and atmospheric ruins of the ancient Roman city of Sanisera.
Es Grau and Albufera des Grau Natural Park: A haven for birdlife and biodiversity, this protected area offers saltwater lagoons, wetlands, and rich flora, making it one of the island’s ecological gems.
Fornells: A traditional fishing village celebrated for its whitewashed houses, vibrant harbor, and local seafood cuisine—a perfect place to rest and refuel along the route.
Cala Pregonda: Notable for its unusual golden and red sands, rocky islets, and serene, unspoiled setting. This beach is often highlighted as one of the most beautiful and unique in Menorca.
Historic Watchtowers and Fortifications: Scattered along the trail, these 16th- to 18th-century stone towers and batteries offer a window into Menorca’s military history and provide superb vantage points for photography.
Challenges to expect
While the Cami de Cavalls is generally well-marked, hikers should prepare for some physically demanding sections. The trail spans a variety of surfaces—dirt, gravel, and rocky tracks—which can become uneven and slippery, especially near cliff edges or after rain. Certain segments, particularly on the northern and eastern coasts, involve steep ascents and descents that require good balance, sturdy footwear, and a reasonable level of fitness.
Weather conditions can also pose notable challenges. During spring and autumn, rain showers can make some paths muddy and difficult to traverse. Strong coastal winds, especially in the exposed northern stretches, may slow progress and make hiking strenuous. Shade is limited along many coastal sections, so sun exposure and dehydration are risks, particularly during unseasonably warm days.
Water sources and facilities are more sparsely distributed in remote areas, particularly between villages or in less-developed stretches of the trail. Hikers should plan water stops carefully and carry enough supplies, especially in hot weather. Additionally, while wayfinding is mostly straightforward, intersections with local roads or agricultural properties can occasionally cause confusion, so carrying an up-to-date map, GPS, or trail app is recommended.
Spain - Coastal
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Gravel
- Hotels
- Campsites
- Hostels
- Wild camping spots
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Picnic Areas
Setting out from Mahon, the trail winds northeast along the coastline, passing the Port of Maó and following secluded paths through low Mediterranean scrub. The route skirts cliffs and inlets before entering the Albufera des Grau Natural Park, a highlight for its birdlife and wetland scenery. Arrival in the tranquil village of Es Grau marks the end of a mostly gentle first day.
Leaving Es Grau, the path ventures northward into pine woods and sand dunes, with the coastal landscape becoming wilder as you approach the rocky northeastern tip of Menorca. The section culminates at the dramatic Favàritx Lighthouse, offering panoramic coastal views amid a striking black slate landscape.
Traveling from the rugged headlands of Favàritx, the trail moves west towards Arenal d'en Castell, passing remote coves and beaches. This stretch features a mixture of rocky and sandy paths, traversing scenic inlets and the marshy areas near Addaia. Spend the evening in the lively resort town of Arenal d'en Castell.
This leg crosses undulating farmland and sections of pine forest before following the coast into Fornells Bay, famous for water sports and seafood. Expect picturesque beaches and several birdwatching spots en route. Fornells provides plentiful options for rest and fresh local cuisine at day’s end.
The route from Fornells to Binimel·là crosses some of the most remote and wild terrain of the GR223. The path alternates between rocky trails and sandy coastal stretches, with little development and vast open views. Highlights include Platja de Cavalleria and the red sands of Cala Pregonda, before reaching the rustic beach area of Binimel·là.
One of the longer and most challenging days, this stage covers a rugged stretch of the north coast, with little shade or settlement. The trail ascends and descends over headlands and past untouched coves, finally reaching Cala Morell and its dramatic cliffs and archaeological sites.
This day’s hike follows the northwestern coast, transitioning from wild landscapes into cultivated farmland and the outskirts of Ciutadella. Passing through beaches such as Algaiarens, the trail eventually enters the historic streets of Ciutadella, Menorca’s second-largest city and a hub for culture and dining.
Heading south from Ciutadella, the route becomes more wooded and shaded, winding through forested ravines and visiting several of Menorca’s famous turquoise coves, including Cala Turqueta and Cala Macarella. The day ends at the resort and bay of Cala Galdana, an excellent base for supplies and relaxation.
This stage runs through wooded valleys, rising up to cliff-top pathways and passing hidden beaches like Cala Mitjana and remote caves. The terrain undulates before emerging at Son Bou, Menorca’s longest sandy beach and the location of important archaeological remains.
The final day traverses the island’s southern coastline, passing sandy beaches, farmland, and scenic cliffs. The trail visits charming seaside villages such as Binibeca and Punta Prima before turning inland for the last approach to Mahon, completing the circumnavigation of Menorca.