Mao – or to use its better known Spanish name of Mahon - is the largest town on the island of Menorca, and is usually the first point of arrival for visitors to the island. One of the town’s most notable features is its beautiful harbor - one of the largest natural harbors in the world - which along with its strategic location in the Mediterranean has made it a natural trading port.

One of the delights of Mahon is its rather sedate and elegant atmosphere – a reminder of British rule, when the town was established as Menorca’s capital by the British in the 18th century. Elegant Georgian style townhouses stand side by side with more modern apartment blocks and hotels. You can still see the beautiful mansion known as Golden Farm, where Admiral Nelson took refuge in 1799 – supposedly with his mistress, Lady Hamilton.

One attraction in the town not to be missed is the church of Santa Maria, which dates from the 13th century, complete with a famous 3000 pipe organ. Otherwise, an enjoyable activity is simply to sit in one of the many waterfront bars or restaurants and enjoy the atmosphere of the harbor area.
Mahon and this part of the coast of Menorca offer excellent beaches, including the nearby Cala’n Porter, one of the island’s most spectacular beaches. In addition to the beaches, parts of the coast offer ancient caves set into the cliffs, some of which are still inhabited today.

Mahon boasts a wide range of restaurants, some catering to its many British visitors; some offering more local color. Not surprisingly, fish and seafood are the basis of most dishes; lobster stew is the most well known local dish. Also popular are locally made cheese and a range of sweet pastries. And be sure to sample a glass of the locally produced gin before or after your meal – another legacy of British rule.
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n summary, Mahon doesn’t have a great deal of sights – it appeals primarily to people who enjoy the laid back feeling, although the larger hotels offer the usual sporting activities and nightlife.