Traditional Menorca: Discover the island's distinctive wild olive wood gates

No better way to get to know the traditional crafts of a land, such as the typical wild olive wood swing gates in Menorca, than to buy a house and become a part of the local community.

Menorca is an exclusive and well loved holiday island on a much smaller scale than her bigger sister Mallorca. The beautiful landscapes, proximity to the sea, virgin beaches and more than 300 days of sunshine a year are what tourists and house buyers love when searching for a villa or an apartment in the sun.

Menorca is also an island rich in tradition: these traditions can be found in very different areas of Menorcan life. Particularly interesting is the centuries-old tradition of wood craftsmanship that is still present in numerous workshops throughout Menorca. Among other things, the characteristic olive wood gates that dominate Menorca's paths and landscapes are crafted by ‘Araders’ in these workshops. The gates, known locally as ‘barreres”, together with the dry stone walls "parets secas", stone walls that are meticulously built with no cement or binding compound, are in evidence wherever you go in Menorca.

If you are thinking of moving to Menorca and want to buy a villa make the real estate agent Engel & Völkers your first stop and buy a property with complete confidence. Read on for interesting facts about the distinctive Menorcan olive tree gates and places like the Camí de Cavalls, where you will come across examples of the ”barreres”.

Camí de Cavalls: The olive wood gates are a big part of Menorca’s  landscapes.

Are you passionate about hiking and is the Camí de Cavalls, also known as the "Way of the Horses", one of your favorite hiking trails? If so, you will have noticed the wooden gates made from wild olive wood (Ullastre), which are important landmarks for hikers. . This historical path was once patrolled by nobles who rode their horses along the path, watching out for pirates and other threats.  These particular gates all look the same and are characterized by a curved cross bracing and are made of very sturdy natural wood. You can often find the gates in combination with a dry stone wall, because they go hand in hand, both being products of  an ancient craft tradition.

The gates are made by craftsmen called araders, who contribute significantly to the maintenance of this craft tradition. If you want to learn even more about the local crafts of Menorca, real estate agent Engel & Völkers recommends a visit to the Centro Artesanal de Menorca, the handicraft center of Menorca in Es Mercadal. Not only are handicraft products sold there, but you can also view exhibitions and films about the various crafts on Menorca. Discover the many facets of Menorca, buy a villa  and settle permanently on this fascinating Balearic island that is so rich in tradition.

Dare to make a new start and buy your dream property in Menorca

Make Menorca your new home and get up close to the beautiful nature, the fascinating stone walls and the many rustic wooden gates that are so emblematic. By buying your own villa you will reap the benefits of the relaxed atmosphere, year-round mild temperatures, 300 days of sunshine and the possibility to explore the many beautiful land and seascapes as well as the famous Camí de Cavalls whenever you want.

We would like to whet your appetite and present you this wonderfully unique villa in Ciutadella, which is located in front of the sea. "Villa El Cairo" is an Arabian-Mediterranean style villa that has been extended and can still be extended. Comfortable interiors include a living-dining room, beautiful kitchen, two double bedrooms plus one single and two bathrooms, one is on suite. Enjoy a large garden, palm trees and a super swimming pool, this excellent property promises a quality lifestyle by the sea and right by the Cami de Cavalls - perfect for your morning walk or a quick jog before breakfast overlooking the sea.

Contact Engel & Völkers real estate agent now to buy this very special property or let us show you other properties available for sale in the most beautiful locations of the island. Engel & Völkers is your local real estate agent that will assist you throughout the buying process - buy with confidence and own a new home in no time.