Alaior
Alaior municipal district lies in the eastern central part of the island with the town at its centre, surrounded by rich agricultural land. To the south of the town are several important archaeological sites and two of the largest tourist resorts on the island.
Founded in 1304, Alaior is built on a hill. Although the main roads leading to the south coast resorts and across the island now bypass Alaior, it is worth wandering through the narrow lanes and alleys of the medieval part of town; if nothing else to witness the contrast between them and the resorts a few kilometres away.
Things to See and Do
Although tourism has now taken over as the number one industry, dairy farming and shoemaking were the main economic activities in this area for hundreds of years. Various working farms still produce Mahón cheese and welcome visitors to tour their premises and taste their products.
The Camí d’en Kane, the original road built across the island during the British occupation, runs through Alaior. Now a secondary road, it receives little traffic and provides a scenic alternative to the main roads either by car or by bike.
Alaior has a busy cultural and social life and in town there is a sports centre, football ground, tennis club and riding club.
For those with an interest in archaeology, don’t miss a visit to Torre d’en Galmes (the largest talayotic settlement on the island) on the way to Son Bou. Just behind Son Bou beach at the far eastern end, the remains of a Roman basilica built around 5 AD can be seen. Alternatively, en route to Cala en Porter, stop at Torralba d’en Salord where there is an impressive taula standing in a horseshoe-shaped precinct.
The small zoo on the Alaior-Maó road show typical farm animals of Menorca as well as some more exotic species. Children can pet the young goats, cows and horses; there is also a play area, picnic tables and shop.
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