In the equally spectacular Cova d’en Xoroi, just along the coast, history, geology, legend and disco nightlife come together in a skilful blend. The caves are in cliffs which rise vertically from the sea, providing a very dramatic backdrop for the cafés and bars now built into them.

The caves are now a nightclub and disco, converted with the minimum of interference with nature, and reached by a long, steep staircase down the cliff face. Going back up again at the end of the evening must be fun!

Not too far away, the small town of Es Castell is a gem. It is a collection of Venetian style buildings strung around a harbour lined with restaurants, bars and boutiques and busy with sightseers enjoying its lively atmosphere. It’s particularly good for a night out.

The highest point on Menorca is El Toro at 358m. It is a spiritual centre dating back to the 13th century with a church and a shrine. The mountain can be seen from almost all over the island and so from its peak the whole island can be seen. It is also the site of a forest of communication aerials, both civilian and military, which incongruously surround a statue of Christ.

Of the two major cities, Cuitadella was our favourite. It retains its mediaeval atmosphere through its haphazard and narrow street patterns, and is one of the few places on the island where you find buildings painted in bright colours. Its imestone cathedral has exquisite stained glass windows, and it’s a venue for concerts.

The city is famous for its festival of Saint John, on June 24. Its highlight is a cavalcade of horses. The riders stream into a huge arena near the harbour where they give an exhibition of exhilarating horsemanship. Then by all accounts, people and horses spill out into the streets in a melée of music, singing, dancing, prancing and bravado, and no doubt eating and drinking too. It sounds well worth a return visit in June – but a trip back any time would suit me!