Ibiza has long been known for its party atmosphere and endless nightlife – but there’s another side to this beautiful island. A secret side where you can watch the sun set far from the crowds and enjoy a tranquil day on the beach before you join in the party. A land of wildlife and culture awaits…
Escape the crowds
Pine forests and juniper bushes cover 40% of the land. Ibiza is also known as the Pitiusas Islands, Greek for “abundant supply of pine trees”. It’s a great place to hike or cycle, and it’s one of the best ways to discover the true face of the island. In the north the area is more rural and less crowded. In the south there are plenty of beautiful hikes including at Salinas. Check at the tourist office for official hiking trails (it’s a small island but easy to get lost in the forests) and Ibiza Walking Association – www.ibizawalkingassociation.com.
See the sights on two wheels: there are plenty of cycle routes and it’s easy to hire a bike in the towns. Find more details on the Welcome to Ibiza website.
Ses Salines, named after the salt lakes, Ibiza’s natural park in the south of the island is a unique landscape. It’s home to many protected birds (more than 210 listed species) and amazing views, where you’ll get to see typical fishermen’s huts, spot flamingos and discover hidden beaches.
Ibiza and Formentera are home to the largest living organism on the planet – the sea grass meadows of Posidonia, a UNESCO site, protects the pristine turquoise waters of the coves, perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling.
Mystical Ibiza
The island has been a centre for spirituality since time immemorial. Legend has it that in the southwest of Ibiza, Es Vedrà a small rocky island, is where magnetic forces exert a mystical pull. Some say that there is a natural pyramid under the earth’s crust which radiates energy. In Sa Pedrera, hippies started to gather in the 1960s, drawn to the spiritual energy of the area. The beach is known for its stunning views and you’ll discover sculptures, created by artists and stone masons over several centuries.
Ibiza is a great place to recharge your batteries, take a yoga class or enjoy a pamper day – there are several excellent spas on the island.
Dalt Vila | UNESCO World heritage town…
Dalt Vila, which literally means upper town, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. It is a fantastically preserved Mediterranean fortress where walking through the gates is like travelling back in time, with its cobbled streets, high stone walls, dramatic drawbridges, numerous churches and historical museums. Being Ibiza, it’s full of stylish modern Mediterranean restaurants and cool bars, so you can refuel as you walk up and down the endless streets, hills and stairs. The best of both worlds…
Best places for sunsets in Ibiza
Ibiza is famous for its beautiful sunsets and you’ve got a huge choice of places to witness the sight of rosy hued skies. One of the best is at the beach of Cala Benirras. You’re likely to find yourself alongside hundreds of other sunset fans, listening to drum music as the red ball dips below the horizon, it’s truly magical. Es Vedra (above) is also a fabulous place to watch the sun go down.
And if you want to watch the sunset in the lap of luxury, head to the 2 Michelin Star Edén Restaurante where you’ll discover an unbeatable view of the sunset towards Hacienda Na Xamena.