After the crossing from Sardinia, we were glad to stop and rest for a few days in Mahon. For those of you who have read Patrick O'Brian's books, including Master and Commander, which was made into a movie with Russell Crowe, (Rob has I know) you will recognise the port of Mahon, which is a major location of the novels.

In real life Mahon is one of the largest natural harbours in the world (Sydney being largest) which is why it has been prized and invaded repeatedly. It is thought to have been named after Hannibal's brother who sheltered here in 205 BC. Since then it has been invaded by the usual suspects right up until 18th century, when it was captured by the Royal Navy in 1708. The French captured it in 1756, with the British recapturing it in 1798 during the many wars with France. It was finally handed to Spain in 1802. When the French captured Mahon, their chef prepared a special dressing as part of the celebration feast - it is now named after Mahon - mayonnaise.

There can still be seen the remains of the Royal Naval Dockyard and hospital. Once Spain got hold of it Queen Isabel II decided to fortify it to stop further incursions, and built La Mola fort at the north entrance. We were anchored just below La Mola, and spent a day wandering around the old fort. It is huge, and in remarkable condition, mainly because it is a relatively "new" fort; it has also never seen any battle.

We went into the town of Mahon and wandered the streets etc - I like it. It has a very small "old town" with about one street of what could be called tourist shops, but the whole place is very understated and non-pretentious. There are no designer label shops anywhere. The docks area still has scattered wrecked buildings amidst the very few bars; however, you can still buy a really good coffee in town.

We spent some time with Swiss friends on their boat, Anori. The plan was to travel north to Fornells, however, the wind had other ideas, and faced with a strong N wind, we decided to head to the south coast. When we left Mahon, we sailed past Punta Prima bay/beach which was where the British landed to put the troops ashore when they captured Mahon in 1708 - it is now a delightful tourist town. :-)