Barranc d'Algender, a valuable ecosystem and a spectacular landscape

Parks and Nature | Ferreries

The great historical value of Barranc d'Algender derives from the discovery there of the oldest human remains in Menorca. Apart from which, this virgin territory is spectacularly beautiful with its jagged cliffs and exuberant vegetative life. In the pre-Talayotic or Copper age (2500-1500 BC), its inhabitants were agricultural and livestock farmers who lived in caves and in the depths of the ravine. The remains discovered in Barranc d'Algender date from the year 2200 BC and are the oldest found in Menorca. This ravine was declared Common Heritage of Mankind in 1998 and lies in the district of Ferreries. It is about six kilometres long and leads into the magnificent Cala Galdana beach in the south of the island. At some points during its course, it reaches amazing proportions with excavated channels of up to fifty metres in depth. The whole area is of great ecological interest, proof of which can be seen in the twelve different habitats that coexist there. There are more than 200 animal and vegetable species, of which 18 are indigenous and 26 are classified rarities. One example of its exuberant vegetation is the surrounding area of the stream with its deeply-set bed. A route to be carried out by foot or bicycle These characteristics mean that Barranc d'Algender is a route of extraordinary interest, either by foot or by bicycle. The excursion takes you down age-old paths that wind through leafy Mediterranean woods, the ruins of ancient constructions in the rocks and slopes or through lands cultivated with ancient farming techniques. Its slopes connect to an old path to Mao, popularly known as Ses Voltes, one of the most marvellous spots on the journey. It is one kilometre long, made up of horse-shoe shaped nooks chipped into the rocks and leads down to the bottom of the valley. One of most impressive panoramas that the ravine has to offer is from above. You take the right hand path half way down the slope just where a centenary oak tree stands. Crossing a little bridge, you can walk along the bed of the valley, another wonderful experience to be enjoyed while of course scrupulously respecting the marvellous ecosystem. The side road to Barranc d'Algender can be found at 29'400 km. on the C 721 road.