London-based sisters Rosanna and Christie Wollenberg founded Otiumberg in 2016 after finding a gap in the market for affordable but quality, demi-fine jewellery.
Not only do the sisters work together in the brand’s London Bridge showroom and studio, but they also live next door to each other in near-identical townhouses.
It’s the Spanish island of Menorca that has their hearts though, where they spent the majority of their childhood exploring the Balearic shores, and since, both have gotten married on the island.
Here, the duo share their insider tips to visiting Menorca from the best cultural hot spots, the hiking trail for breathtaking views and where to find the best date-night spot.
The best time to visit?
Rosanna: We love going off-peak in May or October when you can sit on the beach all day long without the midsummer heat and with fewer crowds from the school holidays.
Our first pitstop should be…
Christie: The fish market in Mahon to grab some fresh seafood for the bbq.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at is…
Rosanna: Santa Ponsa, it’s where I got married last year and is the most magical and peaceful hotel. The space is a converted beautiful old farmhouse surrounded by stepped gardens that are brimming with flowers.
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For an early morning workout head to…
Christie: Our sister runs ayurvedic retreats on the island so we would recommend starting the day with her hatha yoga sessions, otherwise nothing beats a morning dip on an empty beach (there are plenty of nudist spots too if that’s up your street!)
Where should we go for breakfast?
Rosanna: Without a doubt have a coffee with a local baked treat, Ensaimada (we love the custard ones). Most bakeries are delicious but you could try Can Pons in Es Mercadal.
Where can we find the best coffee?
Christie: Anywhere – the Spanish love their caffeine. Down by the harbour in Mahon is always a nice spot to watch the boats go by.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
Christie: Isla del Rei is where I got married and a very special little island just outside of Mahon port. They recently launched a new restaurant Cantina where you can sit under the shady trees for a long late lunch after checking out the Hauser and Wirth gallery also located on the island.
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Your favourite restaurant in town?
Rosanna: Binifadet is one of our favourite restaurants and the wine is exceptional.
And for dinner with friends?
Christie: We’d probably head to Experimental for a vibey dinner with some cocktails at the bar before. They have a lovely little boutique to check out whilst you wait for your table.
The drink to order at the bar…
Rosanna: Gin and Tonic with the local Menorcan gin and peppercorns. Delicious.
The best place for people watching…
Christie: Ciutadella Port is a sweet place to watch the world go by.
The culture spot to rave about…
Rosanna: Hauser and Wirth gallery on Isla del Rei is a very special art space always with an interesting programme. We also discovered Lithica, an old quarry which has been converted into a dramatic space, that hosts live music and arts events. Definitely worth checking those out.
Where can I go shopping?
Christie: I wouldn’t say Menorca is about the shopping however, if you head to Ciutadella there are a few lovely boutiques nestled amongst the streets.
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For the best views head to…
Christie: I’d take a walk around the Cami de Cavalls when you’re on the island. It’s an old dusty trail which circumnavigates the whole of Menorca. It’s a haven for when you want to get some exercise and see the island’s beautiful coastline.
A book to read before we go (or while you’re there)…
Rosanna: Menorca is all about taking time to relax, connect with nature and reflect on life. Lately I’ve read Feral by George Monbiot which is all about realising and seems appropriate. Otherwise perhaps something reflective such as any of Alan Watts’ works.
For a change of pace try…
Rosanna: Spend the night dancing at Cova d’en Xoroi.
Souvenir to take home?
Christie: The Menorcan gin of course.
In one word, Menorca is…
Rosanna: Calm.
A must-try spot for date night?
Christie: Torralbenc is a beautiful restaurant and wine menu we love to escape to without the kids.
The best place to treat yourself is…
Rosanna: There are a few mobile beauticians on the island so we love booking in for massages at home.
Your favourite neighbourhood(s)…
Rosanna: We love the port of Es Castell. We’ve been going there since we were children and it’s such a beautiful port area close to mahon. We’d say book a table at Trebol and try the fried sea enemies.
Great day trips include…
Christie: A boat trip around the island’s southern bays is a must. Pack some Binifadet wine, baguette and fresh fruit. We love setting up family picnics on some of the virgin beaches that are only accessible by foot.
How should we spend the final day of our trip?
Rosanna: At the beautiful Sa Mesquida beach with an ice cream in hand from the famous Italian Gelateria cart.
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What’s your Menorca secret?
Christie: It used to be the island itself as everyone flocked to Mallorca or Ibiza but popularity has definitely picked up over the last few years with people seeking more of a quiet escape.
Essential items to pack?
Suncream, a book, walking shoes for the rocky Cami de Cavalls track, a sketchbook, a backpack for beach picnics, a large sarong to sit on after walking to one of the many virgin beaches only accessible by foot and Otiumberg jewellery, of course.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?