Lithica Pedreres de s’Hostal: Visiting Ciutadella’s Quarry Gardens

Lithica is a privately owned site open to the public in the former s’Hostal quarries, on Camí Vell in Ciutadella. Limestone was extracted here by hand and machine for building. Since 1994, the Lithica foundation has protected, restored and rehabilitated the quarries.

The landscape’s next chapter came after quarrying: parts of the site were used as orchards, then abandoned, allowing wild vegetation to return. The restored grounds now bring together traces of quarry work and designed gardens.

The gardens include the Medieval Garden, Plant Labyrinth and Botanical Circuit. Rather than treating the quarry as a backdrop alone, the route connects its geology and working history with the vegetation and garden spaces that have taken shape there.

The official biodiversity circuit includes 17 points of cultural interest, with stops about geology, marès quarries, birds, quarrying, gardens and labyrinths. Lithica estimates about 90 minutes for the visit route, so allow time to move between the different parts of the site.

Lithica’s seasonal schedule changes through the year. It is closed in January. The seasonal periods are February–March and November–December, and April–October.

Opening hours

• Monday to Saturday: 9:00–12:30
• Sunday: 8:45–12:30

Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.

General admission is €10. The €7 reduced price applies to visitors aged 65 and over, Menorca residents, visitors with functional diversity, and groups of 12 or more. Children under 15 enter free when visiting with family. Lithica Friends also enter free, and a nominative annual pass costs €20.

Lithica recommends booking online to secure entry and avoid waiting. From April through October, entry between 9:00 and 14:00 is online-ticket-only. Parking capacity is limited, so consider that when planning your arrival. Check the official site before you go.

From Ciutadella, follow the signs for “Pedreres de s’Hostal.” The driving directions point to the Me-1 roundabout at km 42.5, which connects to the RC-1 and RC-2, or to the RC-2 roundabout with the “Porta al Cel” sculpture, where you take Camí Vell.

From Grupoandria Hotel Platja Gran, Lithica is about a 9-minute drive. The Grupoandria Platja three-star hotel is in Ciutadella.

Stay on marked paths and behind protective walls: the former quarry has dangerous, uneven ground. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Pets are welcome but must stay on a leash, and drones are not allowed without prior authorization from Lithica.

If you are extending your trip beyond Ciutadella, Naveta des Tudons is another Menorca site to plan separately; the drive from Grupoandria Hotel Platja Gran takes about 14 minutes. The Naveta des Tudons visit guide covers planning for that stop.