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Boutique hotels

Self-catering properties

Ibiza, Balearic Islands Activities

Worth getting out of bed for...

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). Get design inspiration and some stylish souvenirs (clothes, jewellery, homeware and more) from Sluiz at Carretera Ibiza/San José or Carretera Ibiza/Santa Eulalia (+34 971 800 005; www.sluiz-ibiza.com). Don’t worry if you want one of everything – the shop can deliver across Europe.

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
Avoid going to cool restaurants, bars or clubs on the ‘wrong’ day or night. Always check beforehand to see what’s on, especially during winter. Locals do it; you should, too.

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.

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