Just 4km out of Maó, you pass the short and clearly signposted country lane leading to Talatí de Dalt , another illuminating Talayotic remnant. Much larger than trepucó, the site is enclosed by a Cyclopean wall and features an imposing taula , which is adjacent to the heaped stones of the main talayot. All around are the scant remains of prehistoric dwellings. The exact functions of these are not known, but there's no doubt that the taula was the village centrepiece, and probably the focus of religious ceremonies. The rustic setting is charming - olive and carob trees abound and a tribe of boar roots around the undergrowth.

Cheese is a good reason to stop at ALAIOR , 12km from Maó, an old market town which has long been the nucleus of the island's dairy industry. There are two major companies, both of which have factory shops near to - and clearly signposted from - the old main road, as it cuts across the southern periphery of the town centre: come off the new bypass at the most easterly of the three Alaior exits and follow the signs. Approaching from Maó, the first shop is owned by La Payesa ( Mon-Fri 9am-1pm & 5-8pm), while the second is the bigger and better outlet of Coinga ( Mon-Fri 9am-1pm & 5-8pm, Sat 9am-1pm ). Both companies sell a similar product, known generically as queso Mahon , after the port from which it was traditionally exported.

Menorca is famous for it`s cheese made out of cow`s and goats milk. It's a richly textured, white, semi-fat cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk with a touch of ewe's milk added for extra flavour. The cheese is sold at four different stages of maturity, either tierno ( young ), semi-curado ( semi-mature ), curado ( mature ) or añejo ( very mature ). Local shops offer the full range and, although quite expensive, is well worth a try.

On the hill above the cheese shops, the old centre of Alaior is a tangle of narrow streets and bright white houses set beneath the imposing church of Santa Eulàlia . A good time to visit Alaior is during the second weekend of August when Alaior lets loose during the Festa de Sant Llorenç.

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There is a good selection of some lovely Hotels in Alaoir to suit all budgets. One of the top rated hotels would be La Noria de San Bou The La Noria Aparthotel de Son Bou is just a short walk from the stunning nearby beaches. This magnificent property is designed in the style of a traditional, Balearic country mansion, surrounded by gardens and a large outdoor swimming pool.

On the lower price scale and in the same area is the Hostal Jeni which has become very popular over the years. This hotel restaurant boasts an unbeatable location in the centre of the island and the ideal place to disconnect and enjoy a relaxing holiday. The hotel facilities are ideal for your relaxation, with a comfortable terrace, heated swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi. The restaurant offers traditional Minorcan cuisine with exquisite dishes to delight from. You can organise various activities from this very establishment, in order to get close to nature or even cooking courses.