Top 2016 Travel Destination: Alternative Ibiza

The third largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Ibiza is world-renowned for its clubbing scene, attracting superstar DJs and party people every year for a heady summer of revelry. However, over the past few years, the Ibiza Government has been working hard to promote another side to Ibiza that has eluded many tourists; a more peaceful, holistic side, suited to nature and culture lovers and those looking to unplug and recharge.

Thankfully, their work is paying off and more and more people are discovering this alternative Ibiza. So if you’re after a holiday where you can disconnect from the rat race while getting a culture fix and a killer tan – don’t overlook this misjudged Mediterranean gem. Here are just some of the alternative reasons people are visiting Ibiza, away from the electronic beats.

Historical Sites

History buffs will not be disappointed by Ibiza’s eventful and interesting history. Settlement by the Phoenicians in 654 BC and then by the Carthaginians, conquered by the Romans in 123 BC, invaded by Byzantines, the Moors and later by the Arabs who ruled for almost five centuries, until around 1200 when the Catalans drove them off and Spain eventually regained the island.

You can see evidence of each period strewn across Ibiza, from Puig des Molins near Ibiza Town, the biggest and best-preserved necropolis of Phoenician-Punic culture, to Las Salinas, the famous salt flats constructed by the Carthaginians, to the stone pirate towers dotted around the Ibiza coastline built by the Catalans as well as Santa Marisa d’Eivissa, the magnificent cathedral atop Dalt Vila, Ibiza Town’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage listed fortress.

Back To Nature

Ibiza has become very popular with cyclists and walkers in the quieter months, with over 60 marked cycle routes and walking trails across the island, with options to suit all levels of fitness. Coastal walks will reward you with stunning vistas of the Mediterranean Sea flanked by pines and rocky outcrops, while inland hikes will take you through pretty villages and red-earth farmland.

The best time to explore Ibiza on foot or bicycle is really anytime outside of July and August, when it’s not too hot. February is particularly beautiful on the island, when fields become awash with white and pink almond and cherry blossoms.

Rural Pueblos

There are many pueblos (small villages) and hamlets surrounded by orchards of citrus fruits and almond or carob trees, in the heart of Ibiza where you can get a glimpse of what yesteryear was like. With white washed churches at the village centre, rustic local bars around hidden corners and splashes of pink and purple bougainvillea hanging from balconies, here is where you’ll have a real ‘locals’ experience.

Santa Gertrudis in the centre of Ibiza is one of the more bustling villages, popular with bohemian expats and local artists and makes for a great day trip. Enjoy some tapas and a caña in the main square while watching life trundle by. Head further northwest and you’ll find the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it village of Santa Agnès de Corona; with just a church and two bars, one of which – Bar Cosmi – serves undoubtedly the best Spanish Tortilla on the island.

Hidden Swimming Spots

Much of Ibiza’s 210-kilometre coastline is rocky and rugged and tucked into many corners are small, un-spoilt coves surrounded by pine trees and blessed with crystal clear waters. During the summer months, while the more popular sandy beaches such as La Salinas and Playa d’en Bossa are swarming in people, if you’re willing to head off track and get a bit dusty you can find these quieter coves. Seek out the hidden Cala Portitxol, a 40-minute walk along a coastal trail 4km west of San Miguel. Or closer to civilization, wander 10 minutes around the coastline from Pou d’es Lléo on the east coast and you’ll find your own private oasis.

Boutique Shopping and Hippy Markets

Whilst tie-dye commercialism is still well represented in Ibiza’s hippy markets, there are also plenty of stalls selling artisan products made on the island, from beautiful ceramics and artwork to clothing and jewellery. The most famous of Ibiza’s markets is Las Dalias in San Carlos; A bohemian concoction of characters, stalls and events. Open each Saturday during summer, be sure to get there early as it gets very busy around midday.

For boutique shopping, spend a few hours getting lost around the Port and Dalt Vila area of Ibiza Town where you’ll find many stores selling handmade leather goods, bohemian jewellery and accessories, homewares, clothing and more.

Sunsets

Rather than San Antonio’s sunset strip – of Café Mambo and Café del Mar fame – head to the hippy hangout of Cala Benirras for a less commercial sunset experience. Every Sunday, tribes descend on Benirras with their djembes to welcome in the sunset. Other great sunset spots include the hidden cliff-top bar Las Puertas del Dielo (The Doors to Heaven) a short drive from Santa Agnès de Corona where you can enjoy a quiet caña and tapa as the sun goes down. Or head to Cala Conta, a spectacular Blue Flag beach in the very west of Ibiza with spectacular sunsets and atmosphere.

Private Villas

Private villas have become the way to holiday in Ibiza, from beautifully restored rural fincas to sleek modern mansions favoured by international celebrities. Enjoy your own space and private pool away from the tourist crowds. Ibiza Summer Villas has a fantastic range of private Ibiza villas in all areas of the island, with options to suit all budgets.

Formentera

If you have the time, a day or overnight trip to Ibiza’s tranquil neighbouring island of Formentera is a must do. With white sands and turquoise waters, this is one of the last outposts of paradise in Europe. Travel to Formentera via ferry and hire a bicycle or scooter from the port of Formentera, La Savina and beach hop your way around the island. Bliss.

A few more tips to make the most of your alternative Ibiza holiday:

• Hire a car. There is too much to see and do in Ibiza you would otherwise miss without your own set of wheels.
• If coming in July and August, it is usually very hot and humid so ensure your accommodation has air-con.
• Be aware of siesta times. Outside of peak summer time, many shops will close between 2pm and 5pm so if you plan on heading into town for shopping, get in early.