With 130,000 inhabitants, Ibiza is the third largest island in the Balearic Islands (40 km long by 20 km wide), but the most famous in the archipelago. Every year, more than 2 million tourists from Germany, England, Spain, Italy and France land ships and planes. And they are quite right, because the beauty of Ibiza, in some places, will surprise anyone who has only heard the name about discos and hippies. This exists, of course, but Ibiza is also a splendid and rare landscape, made of narrow coves and turquoise sea.
Eivissa, cultural spot
Founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC, then successively under Roman, Byzantine, Arab or Catalan domination, the city of Ibiza retains a rich heritage, inherited from its various occupants.
At the top of the hill, the Dalt Vila (the upper town), built almost in steps, is surrounded by thick Renaissance walls from which emerge the cathedral and the castle, and a little further down, the church of Sant Domènec as well as many stately houses. It is undoubtedly the most interesting site on the island from a cultural point of view. A true memory of the city and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, this district is worth a visit. To access it, the main entrance, the Portal de Les Tables, is remarkable. You can admire the two Roman statues. Inside Dalt Vila, walk along the small labyrinthine streets to reach the cathedral, but do not climb in the middle of the afternoon in summer. It's really too hot (believe us!). You have to go there to admire the sunset around 9pm and stop in one of the small restaurants in its alleys. Indeed, Dalt Vila has some very good establishments and the atmosphere is really very different from the lower city.
At the foot of these walls, the old districts, perhaps the most picturesque, are being tightened up, where the old white fishermen's houses seem to be piling up in a disorderly manner and advancing towards the port
The tour of the island
The south of Ibiza is organized around the municipality of Sant Josep de Sa Talaia, which has preserved its traditions and folklore. It is home to magnificent white sandy beaches, including the must-see Cala Jondal and its salt works; the salt works wetland; and the small islet of Es Vedrà. Less urbanized than the rest of the island, the south of Ibiza welcomes lovers of tranquility.
To the west, Ibiza offers a surprising contrast between the urbanized beaches of Sant Antoni, a paradigm of massive tourism, and the tranquility of beaches accessible only by car (Cala Vedella, Molí, Comte, etc...). Between the sunsets in the bars of Sant Antoni (especially the Café del Mar) and long walks on the cliffs of the coast, everyone will find their happiness...
For its part, Santa Eulària (in Spanish, Santa Eulalia), a tourist and family resort, is the main city in eastern Ibiza. A few kilometres away, Es Canar attracts thousands of tourists every week for its hippie market. But lovers of authenticity will prefer the market of Sant Carles, a small village with a certain charm. To enjoy the beach, eastern Ibiza is one of the best places on the island. Indeed, the municipality of Santa Eulària is home to about twenty beautiful beaches and coves.
The north of the island of Ibiza has remained very well preserved, with the exception of the port of Sant Miquel and Cala Sant Vicent. Many small roads connect the two main roads, Sant Miquel and Sant Joan and Portinatx. There is nothing to stop you from exploring and combining them as you wish. In this area, the roads are narrow and winding, so they can be dangerous, but offer breathtaking views.
Finally, the interior of the Balearic island offers a striking contrast with tourism and the liveliness of the cities and seaside resorts along the coast. In these small inland villages, dotted with beautiful fincas and rural landscapes, you will find the calm and authenticity of Ibiza. Notice to amateurs!
Ibiza, Queen of the Evening
When it's time to sit down to dinner, we're having a great time! In Ibiza, the cuisine is based on fish. You will enjoy local specialities such as ratjada burrida, boiled skate with a kind of crushed almond coulis, and pagès sofrit, a dish made from lamb, chicken, sobrassada and potatoes. Many of the products used to prepare these typical dishes come from local agriculture. This is the case for lamb meat protected by the "Anyell d'e" label and honey under the "Mel Certificada d'Eivissa" label. Fleur de sel d'Ibiza, sold in small turquoise ceramic pots, now has its place in delicatessens, just like locally produced olive oil. Finally, don't forget the flaó, a typical island cake made with fresh sheep's milk cheese. Originally, it was enjoyed during the Easter season, but today it is a must throughout the year. And to enjoy all this, let's go to the chiringuitos, these small beachside establishments that are an essential part of the Balearic culture? It is a bit like the tapas bars on the Iberian Peninsula. This particularity of the islanders, who live entirely facing the Big Blue, is most pleasant, whatever the time of day. For lunch, refreshment or a cocktail, that's where it all happens! Then, head for the terrace of the Sa Punta, to get as close as possible to the chic and glamorous spirit of Ibiza. We sip a cocktail before joining the mother company: the Pasha. Even the most reluctant to worship the huge discos cannot miss the experience in Ibiza. All looks are allowed and it's a real eye-opener!
The place to be…
Since the 1960s, the small world of Ibiza - with its beautiful people - has almost become a myth. Many international personalities from the world of art (actors, singers), economics (major industrialists and financiers), politics, sports or the media are used to come to Ibiza for a few days' rest. It is not uncommon to meet them in bars, restaurants and discos on the island. Hotels such as Hacienda Na Xamena, Torre del Canónigo, and many others, have become privileged places and fill up with personalities every season. Many publications such as the Pasha publication list, with photos, celebrities who are passing through. In recent years, some have become attached to the island by acquiring rich residences in the countryside, especially in the northeast, or luxury apartments, such as Kate Moss, Jade Jagger, famous designer and daughter of the Rolling Stones singer, DJ David Guetta, etc.
Smart info
When? When? If the climate is mild in winter, many establishments are closed. The main tourist season begins in June. Of course, July marked the beginning of the tourist invasion. It is strongly recommended to plan your trip in June or September. It's crowded, but at least you'll find a place on the café terraces and a sandy spot to put your towel. During these two months, the climate is also particularly pleasant, with an average temperature of 25 °C.
Getting there. Allow about 2 hours and on average between 100 € and 350 € for a Paris-Ibiza flight.
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Useful. To prepare your trip as well as possible.
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