8 Best Shopping in Ibiza and the Balearic Islands, Spain

This is the most promising of the handful of local wineries, with robust young reds and whites on store shelves all over Menorca. The owners have expanded their product line into sparkling Chardonnay and the palest-pink rosé, olive oil, jams and conserves, and wine-based soaps and cosmetics. All visits must be pre-booked, but it's well worth a stop, not merely for tastings and guided tours, but also for a meal on the terrace, weather permitting. The kitchen puts an international touch on traditional Menorcan recipes and products; the prix-fixe menu is great value at €28 for three courses, or €65 with a wine pairing. In midsummer, reservations are a must. The reward is kicking back among the most picturesque and peaceful surroundings.

Duck into the little alley between Carrer Nou and Carrer de l'Angel, and discover the atelier where Llorenç Pons makes his espardenyes d'autor (traditional rope-sole sandals) in original and surprising designs.

This artisanal cheese factory and agriturismo is a great place to buy the tangy, Parmesan-like Mahón cheese. Most weekdays you can watch the cheese being made, and guided tours (by reservation  [email protected]; €8) are available at least once a day. As well as a shop (which is only open during said tours), the beautiful grounds boast a small vineyard, a sculpture garden and a botanical garden, and the island's only cheese-focused museum, featuring aging chambers and all manner of implements. 

Interesting plated and anodized silver jewelry and accessories are created by Maria at a workshop in the back of her store.

Handcrafted Menorcan shoe brand, Mascaró, has a well-discounted outlet showroom here, on the main highway from Alaior to Ciutadella. It not only features covetable shoes and bags, but fine leather coats and belts for men and women.

This inventive designer has created an original selection of jewelry and hand-painted silks.

This showroom has a full-length window overlooking the factory where its very chic women's shoes and purses are made. There's also a store in central Mahón. 

One gastronomic legacy of the British occupation is gin. At this distillery on Mahón's quayside near the ferry terminal, you can sample various types of gin and buy some to take home.