When the name Ibiza is mentioned, many people immediately think of its reputation as a party island. But the island, which is located in the Mediterranean, has much more to offer and is not only a destination for hipsters in a party mood. Ibiza has an exciting history and a diverse culture against the backdrop of Spanish serenity. Away from the bars and discos, there are many sights to discover, ranging from imposing buildings to archaeological excavation sites and a nature reserve.
Ibiza has enjoyed great popularity with tourists for years, attracting an international audience from all over the world every year.
Ibiza Town
As the capital of the Balearic island, Ibiza Town occupies one of the top places in terms of sights, as it offers something for everyone as the largest place on the island. Eivissa, as the town is called in Catalan, exudes a Mediterranean flair, has a dreamy harbour and a picturesque old town called Dalt Villa. The old town also includes a huge fortress, which occupies the first place among the sights of Ibiza Town, which also includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria. Since its construction in the 14th century, it has towered majestically above the rooftops of the island’s capital and offers a wonderful view of the city, which quickly makes you forget the sometimes strenuous ascent. The numerous narrow streets and squares of Ibiza Town are lined with many restaurants that add to its charm. Those interested in culture will find contemporary art at the Museu d’Art Contemporani and can learn about the Phoenician-Punic influence at the old Puig des Molins burial site and the Museu Puig des Molins.Ses Salines Nature Reserve
In the south of the island is the Ses Salines nature reserve, one of the most beautiful areas of Ibiza, which has been a nature reserve since 2001. The total area of the nature reserve is 16,000 hectares, of which 3,000 hectares are land and 13000 hectares are sea. Many different species of migratory birds take a break in the area on their long journeys and offer ideal conditions for ornithologists to pursue their hobby. In terms of fauna, the local posidonia was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. With the Torre de Sal Rossa, built in the 16th century, visitors can expect a historic building in the nature reserve. It was built on a hill to protect against pirate attacks and offers a wonderful view of the beach. Ses Salines has its origins as a salt mining area, as evidenced by the many salt pools next to the partly unpaved hiking trails. The Ses Salines Nature Park combines marshes and rocky landscapes as well as beaches and forests that invite you to explore.Archaeological site of Se Caleta
A visit to Sa Caleta in Ibiza is especially interesting for friends of archaeology to learn about the history of the island. The old Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta was found in the 1980s and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. On the four-hectare site, there are ruins that have been dated to the 7th century BC. The excavated remains of the walls show the outlines of the houses very well and allow an insight into the everyday life of the people of that time.
Watchtower Torre des Savinar
The Savinar Tower towers majestically on the coast of Ibiza and is located right next to the magical rock of Es Vedra. Due to its exposed position near the airport, the tower can be seen as soon as you land and is a popular tourist destination during your stay on the island, as it offers excellent views of Es Vedra, Cala d’Hort and even the neighbouring island of Formentera . It owes its nickname Torre del Pirata (Pirate Tower) to its protective function against pirate attacks in the 18th century. To reach the tower, a walk from the parking lot along the cliffs to the watchtower must be planned.Rocky island of Es Vedra
The rocky island of Es Vedra, which rises 382 meters out of the water directly in front of the Torre des Savinar, is surrounded by many myths and legends. Some believe that the rock formation is the last visible part of the sunken Atlantis or that it is home to the sirens from the legend of Odysseus. According to another theory, its topography is intended to help UFOs with navigation, which are said to have already been sighted. A priest reported on beings surrounded by the light that he claims to have encountered. Tourists who have a thing for the mythical and extraterrestrial should consider visiting the island.Can Marca stalactite cave
For holidaymakers who want to escape the Spanish sun and the hustle and bustle of the tourist strongholds for a short time, the stalactite cave Can Marca offers a retreat to enjoy the peace and quiet in the underground cave. The illuminated stalactites and stalagmites take visitors into another world on their tour of the stalactite cave. It is located in the bay of Puerto de San Miguel and used to serve as a smuggler’s cave for prohibited goods such as tobacco or alcohol. Even today, the smugglers’ markings can be seen on the walls, which served them to orient themselves in the dark.
Sant Rafel de Sa Creu
Souvenir hunters should plan a visit to Sant Rafel de Sa Creu. This tranquil little town in the centre of Ibiza is famous for its pottery. In the workshops, the methods of ancient pottery tradition are still used to produce the highest quality clay art objects. Holidaymakers interested in handicrafts have the opportunity to take part in a tour of the workshops and buy one or two souvenirs.
Las Dalias Hippy Market
Information about the hippie market:
Address:
Carretera de San Carlos, s/n, 07850 San Carlos, Islas Baleares, Illes Balears, Spain
Opening hours:
Saturday: 09:00–21:00
Telephone:
+34 669 44 92 24