Menorca, verdict by verdict

Menorca is the Balearics' quiet island: a UNESCO biosphere reserve where the headline is not a monument but the coastline itself, more than 100 beaches and coves strung between pine cliffs, plus two pretty harbour towns, Mahon and Ciutadella, at either end.

The fair tradeoff against Mallorca is that there is far less to see in the classic sightseeing sense: Mahon and Ciutadella are charming but small, the talaiotic stone sites are atmospheric yet modest, and nightlife means dinner and a harbour stroll rather than clubs. The famous coves also need a car or scooter plus a walk, and a trip that needs constant stimulation is on the wrong island.

Where it wins is pace: the south-coast calas at Galdana, Macarella and Mitjana are among Europe's best small beaches, the Cami de Cavalls coastal path circles the island in bite-size day stages, and even August feels less frenzied than Mallorca or Ibiza. Four to five days covers two cove days, a Mahon-and-Ciutadella split and a north-coast or prehistory day; it suits travelers who want one base and slow days, and much of the island closes from November to April.