District Guide

Ibiza did not become one of the world's most important tourist destinations by chance. Its land, beaches, scenery and sun have brought it international fame, and despite there being some concern over the need for greater environmental protection, it is still a wonderful place for those who enjoy nature, the sea, or cities with history.

The only historical and truly urban municipality is Ibiza town, in the centre of which there is a group of architecturally impressive buildings, which has recently been declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco. The castle, the Cathedral and a very well-preserved wall, are signs of the rich past of this part of the Mediterranean. From the back of this group, known as El Soto, there are some incredible views, and on clear days the nearby island of Formentera can be seen. At the foot of the walled area is one of the most exciting districts to visit, the harbour and the marina, which combines the modern and the historical. Next to this zone, the Vara de Rey, where the legendary facade of the Hotel Montesol, can be seen, helps to make a very pleasant walk around the town complete.

Ibiza also has a very important wetland known as Ses Feixes. It is located next to Talamanca beach, and still has the remains of the Arab irrigation system. It is also an important bird sanctuary on the island.

All the municipalities on Ibiza have their own special charm and at times it is necessary to go a bit further out from the usual tourist haunts to discover the islands true secrets. Santa Eulalia, for example, has a pretty miniature town, and at its peak stands the Puig de Missa, a splendid church which is worth a visit for its magnificent views as well as for its great beauty.

Another interesting place in Santa Eulalia is the little village of San Carlos, the last hippy hideout on the island.

San José is the biggest municipality, and has some of the most spectacular beaches. From the Port des Torrent up to the famous Ses Salines beach the coastline is unbeatable. The best sands and sea in the Balearics are at the beaches of Comte, Cala d'Hort, Cala Carbo, Cala Vadella, Es Codolar, Ses Salines and Es Cavallet. The last two are part of a nature reserve where creatures such as flamingos can be seen all year round. San Jose is also an area where there have been important archaeological finds, including the Phoenician site of Sa Caleta and the Punic site of Ses Païses. The highest point on the island, the mountain known as the Atalaya, is also worth a mention.

San Antonio, despite being the part of the island which tourists know best, is often a place which few visitors explore. Tourists should leave the urban area, which is not particularly interesting, and really make the most of places such as Santa Ines, where the almond blossom is truly impressive, San Mateo (a little village where wine is produced) or the coastal area, from where there is a clear view of the little Conejera island, or Cap Nuno. The area is ideal for mountain-biking or hill-walking.

And last but not least is, San Juan, Ibiza's unspoilt, green municipality. The Es Amunts area is the lifeblood of Ibiza, and Benirras beach is one of the most well known, as it is both very attractive and a place where the full moon is celebrated. The northern area is the most rugged, the villages of San Juan and San Miguel being particularly attractive. Finally, the spectacular cliffs of Na Xamena also deserve a mention.

   Copyright © 1999-2009 wcities.com all right reserved