Traveling far from the capital without crossing the Atlantic is possible. Travelers seeking dream beaches no longer need to go all the way to the Caribbean to experience suspended moments. Menorca, a discreet gem of the Balearics, reveals Cala Mitjana, a mirror of the most beautiful stretches of white sand and turquoise water. Less than two hours by plane from Paris, this natural refuge offers a total change of scenery, between preserved nature and exclusive experiences, for authentic relaxation or active vacations. The secret is not limited to swimming: hiking, exploration, and exceptional hotels create a complete picture for lovers of responsible travel or comfortable stays with Club Med, Pierre & Vacances, or Les Villages Clubs du Soleil. Follow the footsteps of Julie, a young city-dweller in search of letting go, to explore this haven of peace and other surprising alternatives less than two hours from Paris.
Discover Cala Mitjana, the “Caribbean” beach within reach of Paris
Attention travelers in search of spectacular landscapes and unique experiences: Cala Mitjana in Menorca has all the attributes of a tropical paradise. Accessible in less than three hours by plane, this destination increasingly enchants lovers of preserved places and an authentic atmosphere, far from the crowds of Majorca or Ibiza. Why so much enthusiasm? Because the brilliance of the white sand and the clarity of the water rival the most iconic beaches of the Caribbean, all in a soft and welcoming Mediterranean setting.
- Quick access: Paris – Menorca in just under two hours of direct flight
- Preserved environment: natural reserves, low urbanization
- Calm atmosphere: ideal for couples, families, groups, or solo
- Reliable partner: easy accommodation organization with Havas Voyages or Pierre & Vacances
| Departure | Destination | Travel time | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paris | Menorca | ~2h by plane | Swimming, relaxation, hiking |
| Paris | Normandy | 1h45 by train | Nature, well-being |
| Paris | Nièvre | 2h by car | Serenity, green landscapes |
Julie, usually a fan of Club Med stays, swapped All Inclusive for a tailor-made stay in Menorca. “Everything is simple and authentic here, the water is so clear that you could almost forget you’re in Europe,” she recounts.
Accessing Cala Mitjana: instructions
The beach is not marked from the main roads. A few landmarks help to reach it without trouble:
- Join Santa Galdana from Mahón or Ciutadella
- Keep an eye out for the marked path leading to Cala Mitjana
- Prepare for a short walk through the pine forest, accessible to all
This detour guarantees tranquility and a sense of exclusivity, accentuated by the wild character of this place.
Menorca: the ideal island for an active or contemplative getaway
Besides relaxation, Menorca rewards explorers: this island, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers an unparalleled adventure playground. Nature enthusiasts and eco-mobility advocates favor the Cami de Cavalls hiking trail, a historic loop that unveils coastal landscapes, forests, and secret coves, far from mass tourism.
- Cami de Cavalls hiking: wild trails, remarkable viewpoints
- Kayaking excursions: exploring marine caves with Evancy
- Boat or jet ski outings: detours to hidden beaches thanks to Vacancéole
- Guaranteed romance: sunset cruise with Nemea
| Activity | Description | For whom? |
|---|---|---|
| Relaxation | Rest, swimming, reading on white sand | Club Med fans, families, couples |
| Kayaking & Boating | Discovery of coves, marine caves | Groups, adventurers, Les Villages Clubs du Soleil |
| Hiking | Marked paths of Cami de Cavalls, varied landscapes | Hikers, Terres de France, nature lovers |
This array of activities allows everyone to personalize their escape, whether they are fans of relaxation or curious about cultural discoveries. Julie opted for a catamaran outing offered by Vacancéole, punctuated by a Balearic picnic at sea: “The sunset behind the cliffs is an unforgettable memory.”
Diverse your next getaways close to Paris
Escape knows no borders, and if Menorca enchants you, other accessible destinations are worth a visit:
- Salt marshes of Charente-Maritime, for a nature immersion
- Secret lake of Ariège, an ideal hideaway to recharge
- Secret beaches in Southern Corsica to find turquoise shades just steps away from the metropolis
- Alpine spa in Corbetta for a refreshing Nordic bath
- Secret address in Madrid for a confidential urban escape
| Destination | Time access from Paris | Type of experience | Recommended operator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Menorca (Cala Mitjana) | 2h by plane | Beach, relaxation, water activities | Club Med, Pierre & Vacances, Havas Voyages |
| Charente-Maritime (Salt marshes) | 2h30 by train | Nature, walks, heritage | Terres de France, Cap France |
| Southern Corsica (secret beaches) | 1h40 by plane | Clear waters, hiking, relaxation | Vacancéole, Nemea |
The diversity of places to explore around Paris is reaffirmed every year, especially in 2025 when nature travel represents a marked trend in the choices of the French, notably thanks to this analysis of nature and tourism.
