Getting off the Beaten Track in Ibiza

Home to turquoise waters, beautiful sandy beaches and a Mediterranean climate, it is of little surprise that Ibiza is a popular summer holiday spot. Add in the exclusive beach bars, headline DJ acts, and clubs that shake the ground below long after the sun has come up however, and it's easy to see why this stunning little island has a bit of a reputation!

The good news for those less nocturnally inclined, is that there is actually much more to Ibiza, and whether you prefer outdoor adventures, luxurious rural retreats or hidden beaches - there really is something for everyone here.

 

Explore the island on two wheels

Whilst it may not be the first activity that comes to mind, cycling is an excellent way to see the island - and with more than 30 bicycle routes to choose from, you'll never be short of beautiful coastal paths, quaint Spanish villages or small country roads to explore here!

One of the most popular is the stunning 'Route 19', an 18 mile stretch that loops around the north, taking in the spectacular cove Na Xamena.

Useful Information | Bicycles can be hired for around 16 Euro a day, and a full list of cycle routes can be found here.

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Discover hidden beaches

More of a beach bum? That doesn't mean you have to fight for a space on a tightly packed beach - there are plenty of hidden coves dotted along the coast. The trick is knowing where to find them, and hiring a car.

Ask a local, ask your hotel, hell, ask the man in the local store! Everybody has a favourite hidden beach that the tourists don't know about.

Looking for a real adventure? Don't miss Cala Llentrisca, a beautifully isolated beach that takes some effort to reach. To get there follow the road from San Josep to Es Cubella, park up and then head the rest of the way on foot through a small forest, along the cliff and down the headland. Cool off in the ocean and enjoyed this deserted beach all to yourself!

If mixing with locals is more your thing, consider a day trip to Es Portitxol. This tiny sliver of protected coastline, reached by a precarious rickety path, has been used by local fishermen for years to launch and store their boats - you may even be able to score some fresh seafood to cook for dinner.

 

Visit Ses Salines National Park

Covering both the south of Ibiza and the north of Formentera, visiting nature lovers would be crazy to miss the Ses Salines National Park. Salt Lakes and visiting flamingoes, isolated beaches and rocky coastlines, and an abundance of bird-spotting opportunities for the twitchers amongst you. It's also home to sa Talaia, the highest point on the island.

Top Tip // Make sure you hang around for sunset - watching the sun descend over the salt flats is said to be one of the most beautiful experiences on the island!

 

Find yourself a beautiful hideaway

On an island long famed as a playground for the rich and famous, Ibiza has no shortage of stunning hotels. Yet, for those who value isolation over a beach-front villa, a converted rural finca may be much more appealing. These traditional countryside properties provide luxury alongside a local experience, and, given the small size of the island, mean that you're still never too far away from the ocean! Looking for some inspiration?

 

Embrace your inner hippy

Not everybody who visits Ibiza does so to party until the wee small hours. In fact, it is the healthy-living and yoga scene that attracts many who call this place home. As a result, a number of excellent yoga retreats have been set-up across the island, providing lodging, meals and a fixed number of classes for an inclusive price.

Whether you're a complete yoga newbie, or can do the 'taraka' without breaking a sweat, there is a retreat and a class for everybody!