Minorca was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993. This section crosses the core zone of this reserve: Albufera des Grau Natural Park (lagoon). The wide variety of ecosystems and landscapes in this area are an indication of its great natural value. Leaving the beach at Es Grau behind, the beach connects directly with the Albufera wetlands, which incorporate many different ecosytems and there is a high level of biodiversity. Among these is Cala de sa Torreta and La Morella, both have dune systems and attached marshes. The Morella lagoon is the largest, and is home to many tamarinds. Continuing along the coast, the path leads to Cap Favàrtix, where a type of vegetation living among the rocks has adapted to the effect of the sea. The prehistoric settlement at Sa Torreta is close to this section, the remains include architectonical elements of great beauty.
The course passes through typical Minorcan agricultural surroundings, formed of ploughed fields, fields for livestock to graze in and areas with Mediterranean bushes. As the path approaches the coast again, it reaches Pou d’en Caldes, a space with a dense concentration of endemic plants. Leaving this cove behind, the path turns inland, where there are spectacular rock formations, such as Es Capell de Ferro, which are covered in foliage. As the path continues, a new ecosystem emerges, the important stretch of water at Port d'Addaia, ground. This occurs at Cala des Tamarells, Cala de sa Torreta and the best example can be found at Arenal de Morella, where the Bassa de Morella is situated, a large body of water next to a salt Addaia with Arenal d’en Castell.
This is an easy-going section of the Camí de Cavalls. Starting at the beach in Arenal d’en Castell, it follows the coast until the resort of Son Parc, going on to Son Saura beach. Here there is a dune system and a marsh with vegetation in very good condition. The woods at s’Albufera des Comte are also of interest because of the great variety of plants that can be found there. The Paleo-Christian basilica at Cap des Port de Fornells is also worth a visit. From Ses Salines, there is a five kilometre stretch along paved roads that lead to Cala Tirant. The idyllic fishermen’s village of Fornells is an attraction close to this route. The Torre de Fornells (lookout tower) is visible on the western bank of the port’s mouth. Built in the early 19th century during the British domination, its aim was to prevent enemy or pirate vessels invading the island via the port.
This route runs along one of the best preserved sections of the island’s coast. The entire area has been declared a SCI (Site of Community Importance) by the EC, as well as being awarded an SPA (Special Protection Area) distinction for birds. This section is of great geological value, as there are many different natural environments where biodiversity is concentrated. Socarells are one type of vegetation resent on this section that is worth a special mention. One key characteristic of these endemic bushes is their ability to adapt to extreme weather conditions, provoked by the strong north wind. There are dune systems at the beaches of Tirant, Cavalleria and Binimel·là, which include important vegetation communities. This section is also very popular with bird watchers, as it is an important zone for breeding brids, such as the fisher eagle. A short diversion from this section, it is possible to visit the interesting archaeological remains of the Roman city of Sanicera, at the tiny fishermen’s port of Sanitja. Another attraction close by that shouldn’t be missed is the lighthouse, Far de Cavalleria (lighthouse). From the reathtaking 80 metre high cliffs, there are spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
This stage of Camí de Cavalls travels through one of the most abrupt parts of the north coast, characterised by sloped terrain covering a long stretch of untouched coast. These steep slopes give rise to unique natural landscapes, such as those found at Cala Pregonda, where the yellow tinge of volcanic rocks attract attention. Other virgin coves on this section include Cala Barril, Cala en Calderer, Binimel·là or Pregondó. The coastal waters in this area form part of the North Minorcan Marine Reserve. This restricted area was created in order to increase the regeneration of natural resources and to ensure the preservation of its key ecosystems.
This section is covers several different ecosystems and habitats along the route. After departing from the pebbles at El Alocs, the path leads to the sands of Cala del Pilar and Alfurí, which are home to a high concentration of endemic flora. The route crosses scenes that are typical of Minorca’s north coast, with views of crystal clear waters making a sharp contrast with the terracotta red of the rocks and the yellow sands. The path’s route leads through woods and past a wide variety of bush species. As the path advances, the unmistakable scent of sea air and saline vegetation indicates the arrival at Pla del Mar. The route then returns inland until it reaches La Vall, a dune system that leads to Cala Algaiarens.
This section is filled with strong and beautiful natural contrasts, as the route crosses the Tramuntana area to so-called dry Minorca. The change between one zone and another begins at Vall d’Algaiarens (valley) which is covered with woods, before it gives way to low level vegetation at the popular bay, Cala de ses Fontanelles. This radical change of scenery allows us to discover a new kind of flora, formed by a diverse number of endemic species. There are many of these species concentrated at the Corniola marine, where there are abundant plants such as rosemary and heather as well as the traditional camamil·la (Minorcan camomile); a plant valued for its medicinal qualities. Following the coastline, the path leads to Cala Morell. There is an an important necropolis dating back to the Talayotic age (1500-300 BC) on the impressive cliff face, formed by caves dug into the rock. This busy cove is also of great geological interest as it is the exact spot where the island’s two geological units meet, Migjorn and Tramuntana.
Nicknamed the windy island, much of Minorca’s landscape is arid. That is the case here, as the strong influence of the fierce north wind has carved the terrain. Gentle slopes characterise the land, apart from at Cala Morell where the deep gorge marks a strong contrast against the smooth terrain. Along the rocky path there is low vegetation but no bushes, these are replaced by by herbaceous plants. Punta Nati has a historical lighthouse that was built during last century in order to reduce the vast number of shipwrecks caused when strong storms affected this part of the coast.There are many typical Minorcan rural buildings along the route,such as ses barraques or es ponts de bens or de bestiar where cattle and other livestock take shelter from fierce weather conditions.
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