About Ibiza
Ibiza is the third largest of the Balearic Islands 150 kms off the Spanish coast. The main tourist towns are Ibiza town and San Antonio with the famous club scene and party venues although the municipalities are trying to encourage more family orientated tourists. The good weather is almost guaranteed with sunshine for 10 hours a day, 300 days of the year.
Getting to Ibiza
Most budget airlines fly from all over Europe to Ibiza, there is also a ferry service from Barcelona, Valencia and Majorca although it can take up to 9 hours travel time from the Spanish mainland. Transfers from the airport to Ibiza Old Town (7 kms) and San Antonio take 15 minutes and 45 minutes, respectively.
Ibiza Old Town (Eivissa)
Dalt Vila is a walled city and UNESCO World Heritage site in the Old Town of Ibiza with panoramic views and whitewashed narrow streets. It is quite a climb but the panoramic views over city and the marina make it worthwhile. A visit to the castle and the Cathedral while you are there, and you will forget your aching legs!
Should you love the area so much, try spending a night or two in Hotel Mirador de Dalt Vila (Plaza Espanya 4 Dalt Vila). Here is a 5-star hotel within the walls, exuding peace and tranquillity far away from the bustle and noise of the town. The food is superb, and breakfast can be taken on the terrace overlooking the city.
Next to the Castle is La Bodega (Calle Bisbe Torres Mayans 2), a traditional but particularly good tapas restaurant serving International tapas and an extensive cocktail menu. Booking is recommended as it is nearly always busy. Maybe not the place for a quiet romantic meal.
Santa Eularia des Rui
Heading north east out of town for about 14 kms, you come to the town of Santa Eularia des Rui. It is quieter than Ibiza town and it is the island’s third largest resort. It is said to be the gastronomical and cultural centre of the island with a palm lined promenade running alongside the long sandy beach.
Cala Benirass
On the north western coast is Cala Benirass with its Bohemian atmosphere and a sand and pebble beach. Definitely one of the places to watch the sunset with hippies playing their drums as an accompaniment. Sunday is the busiest day so maybe a midweek visit would be more relaxing; the sunset will still be there.
San Antonio (Sant Antoni de Portmany)
San Antonio is usually the image of Ibiza most people have, lots of bars, clubs and partying until dawn. However, there are a few places that are slightly different and show another side to the town.
Sa Capella (Carrer Capella) is a restaurant inside an old church on the outskirts of town. It is popular with locals (always a good sign) as well as tourists, the old building has lots of atmosphere and the outside terrace looks very inviting when lit up at dusk. Quite an expensive evening out but well worth it for the experience.
Tapas Restaurant and Lounge Bar (Camino des Reguero 4) is off the beaten track, about 15 minutes walk from the town centre. Regarded by many as the best Tapas to be had on the Island, the food is reasonably priced (10€ - 40€). There are tables outside the terrace with heaters should the evening become chilly.
Café Mambo (Calle Varra de Rey 3) restaurant and bar beside the beach and probably the best place to watch the sunset in San Antonio. Relax after dinner with a cocktail and watch the sun go down with some good music playing.
Pikes Ibiza (Camino Savorera) is a boutique hotel and boasts ‘decadent rooms’ and ‘playful party spots’. This was a favourite place for Freddie Mercury to hang out and various other music legends. Something similar to a traditional San Antonio night out but a lot further upmarket! The food, cocktails and club nights are standouts, or maybe just relax at the pool bar and relive the package holiday vibe.
Es Vedra Rock
Away from the bright lights and noise, 19 kms south west of San Antonio, is the view from the mainland towards Es Vedra Rock. One of the most beautiful views in Ibiza is from the cliff top towards the Rock. Boat trips run from San Antonio but to see the best sunset, drive or take a taxi and the cliff edge is a walk of about 10 minutes from the road.
So, there you have it, some different places to go and sites to see. Why not hire a car and take a drive into the centre of the island to really appreciate the landscape and coastline and perhaps find the real Ibiza.
