Hauser & Wirth Illa del Rei
A contemporary art gallery on a historic island, blending world-class exhibitions with stunning gardens and a restored naval hospital.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Hauser & Wirth Illa del Rei
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A contemporary art gallery on a historic island, blending world-class exhibitions with stunning gardens and a restored naval hospital.
"Such a nice experience to go on the boat and see the island."
🚢 Boat Trip Essential
The boat ride from Mahon is part of the experience! Return tickets are €10.
☀️ Sun Protection
The island can get hot, especially the restaurant area. Bring sunscreen and a hat!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Contemporary Art Exhibitions
World-class contemporary art installations set against a stunning island backdrop. Always something new and thought-provoking to discover.

The Island's Historic Hospital
Explore the beautifully restored 18th-century naval hospital, a fascinating glimpse into the island's past.
Piet Oudolf's Gardens
Wander through meticulously designed gardens by renowned landscape artist Piet Oudolf, offering serene beauty.

Cantina Restaurant
Enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine and drinks in a picturesque setting, perhaps in the olive grove.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Art Escape: Getting There
Beyond the Art: Island Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Trip Essential
The boat ride from Mahon is part of the experience! Return tickets are €10.
☀️ Sun Protection
The island can get hot, especially the restaurant area. Bring sunscreen and a hat!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the island and gallery.
🍽️ Lunch Reservations
Consider booking lunch at Cantina in advance, especially during busy periods.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Trip Essential
The boat ride from Mahon is part of the experience! Return tickets are €10.
☀️ Sun Protection
The island can get hot, especially the restaurant area. Bring sunscreen and a hat!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the island and gallery.
🍽️ Lunch Reservations
Consider booking lunch at Cantina in advance, especially during busy periods.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The blend of art, history, and nature makes for incredible photo ops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hauser & Wirth Menorca for its unique blend of contemporary art, historical significance, and natural beauty. The boat trip to the island is a highlight, and the restored naval hospital and gardens are particularly appreciated. While the art exhibitions are a major draw, the overall experience of being on Illa del Rei is what truly captivates guests.
"Lovely gallery, very interesting exhibition the day we went.
Such a nice experience to go on the boat and see the island.
The old naval hospital is really interesting.
If you can, have lunch in the olive grove at the restaurant. It's such a lovely Mediterranean experience (be warned though, it can be very hot).
Our food was delicious. So was the beer!"
Lincoln Gillam
"Illa del Rei is a magical place. The work done by the volunteers is truly impressive. We visited the island on Sunday and joined the 9:20 AM guided tour around the island and the hospital — it was an amazing experience.
A special thanks to Beverly for sharing the story and fascinating facts about the island with us.
The garden and the gallery are beautiful and incredibly picturesque. There's also a lovely bar/restaurant where you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere."
Ekaterina Lobzhanidze
"I thought it would be nice but I didn’t realise just how nice this is. Beautiful buildings. Excellent art exhibitions particularly the Cindy Sherman and a wonderful lunch."
Tess Flynn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is exclusively by boat from Mahon harbor. Boats depart regularly, and a return ticket costs around €10. The journey is about 15 minutes and offers lovely views.
Boats typically run hourly from Mahon harbor. It's advisable to check the latest schedule upon arrival or online, as times can vary.
No, Hauser & Wirth Menorca is located on Illa del Rei, an island accessible only by boat. You'll need to take the shuttle from Mahon.
The boat trip is a separate fee, typically around €10 for a return ticket, and is not included with gallery admission.
Many visitors combine their trip to Hauser & Wirth with exploring Mahon. The boat departs from Mahon harbor, making it a convenient pairing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the gallery admission itself is often free, there is a fee for the shuttle boat to the island, typically around €10 for a round trip.
It's recommended to book your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid queues.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and current exhibitions. It's best to check the official Hauser & Wirth Menorca website for the most up-to-date information.
Generally, entry to the Hauser & Wirth galleries is free. The primary cost is for the boat shuttle to the island.
Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly on Sundays, offering in-depth insights into the island's history and the art.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Beyond the art, you can explore the beautifully restored 18th-century naval hospital, wander through Piet Oudolf's stunning gardens, and enjoy the Mediterranean views.
Yes, it's a great option for families looking for something different from beach days. Kids can enjoy the gardens and art, and the boat trip is an adventure.
Hauser & Wirth hosts a rotating schedule of contemporary art exhibitions featuring renowned international artists. Past exhibitions have included works by Rashid Johnson and Christina Quarles.
Yes, there are facilities available, including restrooms and a restaurant/bar (Cantina) where you can relax and dine.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the gallery, gardens, and historic hospital, plus time for lunch if you plan to dine.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant called Cantina, often praised for its delicious food and lovely setting, including an option to dine in the olive grove.
Cantina offers Mediterranean cuisine, with reviews highlighting delicious meals and good beer. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the island.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally expected that visitors will dine at the onsite restaurant rather than picnic, especially given the curated experience.
Reviews suggest it offers a good Mediterranean experience, and while prices aren't detailed, it's generally considered a worthwhile part of the visit.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in the provided content, but Mediterranean cuisine often includes fresh vegetable dishes. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary per exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff.
The gardens, the historic hospital architecture, the art installations themselves, and the views of the Mediterranean Sea offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around cultural sites and islands for privacy and safety reasons. It's highly unlikely to be permitted.
Avoid flash photography inside the galleries as it can damage artworks. Also, be mindful of other visitors and respect any 'no photo' zones.
A versatile camera that handles both indoor lighting (for art) and bright outdoor conditions (for gardens and sea views) would be ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities also works well.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Pack snacks and drinks, as while there's a restaurant, having some on hand can be useful. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the island. The combination of art, history, and the scenic boat ride makes it a well-rounded family outing that's different from a typical beach day.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Tip: Check the gallery's website before your visit to see which exhibition is currently showing and if any artist talks or special events are scheduled. This will help you maximize your cultural immersion and understand the context of the works on display.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Tip: Consider bringing a journal or sketchbook to capture your thoughts and impressions. The serene environment is perfect for introspection and creative inspiration. The boat trip also offers a chance to observe and connect with the island's atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Hauser & Wirth Menorca
The selection of artists and exhibitions reflects Hauser & Wirth's global reputation for showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art. Visitors can expect thought-provoking installations, paintings, and sculptures that engage with current social and cultural dialogues. The ever-changing nature of the exhibitions means there's always a reason to return to discover new artistic perspectives. The integration of art within the island's unique setting creates a dialogue between the contemporary and the historical, offering a truly immersive cultural encounter.
Illa del Rei: A Historic Island Transformed
The transformation of Illa del Rei also includes the stunning gardens designed by the world-renowned landscape architect Piet Oudolf. These gardens are a testament to sustainable design and natural beauty, featuring a diverse array of Mediterranean flora that blooms throughout the seasons. The interplay between the meticulously restored architecture and the vibrant, natural landscapes creates a unique and serene atmosphere, making the island a destination in itself, even before you step into the gallery.
Dining and Relaxation at Cantina
Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch after exploring the galleries and gardens or simply stopping for a drink, Cantina enhances the overall visit. The relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings contribute to a memorable experience, blending gastronomy with the island's unique charm. It's a perfect place to reflect on the art and history you've encountered, all while enjoying the beautiful Menorcan setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit