Worth getting out of bed for
Highlights the best Ibiza, Balearic Islands has to offer, from art and culture to fun-packed activities; we've even found the most inspiring place to enjoy the views from.
- Viewpoint
- Overlooking Las Salinas are the pirate towers, which along with the old walls around Ibiza Town, serve as a reminder that this island once had more terrifying invaders than whistle-blowing ravers to worry about. A clamber up to one of the towers gives you great views, including a look at the spooky but lovely, uninhabited island of Es Vedra.
- Arts and culture
- Ibiza Town was founded in the 7th century BC, making it one of the oldest European towns. The Carthaginians constructed the amazing salt flats – or Las Salinas – which are still there and still look beautiful, especially when there are a few flamingos wading about. For more contemporary history, the hippy culture in Ibiza is still alive and well: go along to the Es Cana market every Wednesday or the smaller San Carlos market, every Saturday (both in the summer only).
- Something for nothing
- The clubs put on parades in Ibiza Town on summer evenings to draw in the crowds. The strategy is simple: the more outrageously eye-catching the better.
- Shopping
- For funky boho threads, pop into Ganesha on Montgri, in Ibiza Town (+34 971 193605). For designer labels, try Atelier at 12 Vara de Rey (+34 971 313135).
- Daytripper
- Charter a speedboat or yacht and cruise to Formentera, Ibiza’s quieter neighbour, where there are natural mud baths at Espalmador. Contact deliciouslysortedibiza.com for VIP charters.
- Best beach
- North-coast Cala d’en Serra near Portinatx is a well-kept secret. Aguas Blancas on the northeast coast has a great chiringuito serving caipirinhas and steak sandwiches. Cala Jondal in the east is beloved for its seafood restaurants.
- Perfect Picnic
- If you have access to a private dining area, why don't you completely spoil yourselves, and contact Emanuel and Barbara on 6673 74898 and ask them to arrange some catering for you?
- Activities
- Hire a 4x4 and take to the dirt tracks that criss-cross the pine forests in the north of the island. There’s limitless opportunity for sailing, water-skiing and windsurfing, too.
- And...
- If you have access to a private dining area, why don't you completely spoil yourselves and contact vegetarian caterers Emanuel and Barbara on 6673 74898 and ask them to arrange a meal with friends for you?
Diary
See in the New Year at Space, DC10 or Pacha. February Carnaval street parties in Ibiza Town lend a flavour of Brazil with samba parades and music. June The clubs come out of hibernation with a bang and set up for another long summer of excess. 24 June The Festival of Fuegos de San Juan sees a fantastic fireworks display over Ibiza Town. Last week of July The five-day Ibiza Jazz Festival is held on the Santa Lucia bulwark in Ibiza Town and attracts international artists. September Clubbing season comes to a fitting climax with closing parties. December During the two weeks before Christmas there’s a festive daily market at Las Dalias near San Carlos.
