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What's left to be said about the beautiful Balearic Island of Ibiza? Rather a lot, actually...
For the past three decades, party people heralding the White Isle as the global epicentre for electronic music and rave culture has dominated the discourse surrounding this magical island to such an extent that Ibiza's quieter charms have often gone unnoticed. More the better for those who still wish to escape to the soothing environs of the island's unspoilt secluded coves and wonderfully modest whitewashed villages, free from the hordes who descend on the super clubs and signature beaches in the summer. It's a delicious irony, that, such is the din created by the clubbing scene, the island's increased fame has created a gravitational pull towards very specific areas of the island, in doing so sheltering Ibiza's secret spots from attention and helping them to preserve their timeless charm.
Without wishing to blow their cover completely, we at Villanovo invite you to learn a little more as we (quietly) sing the praises of Ibiza's secret spots. Now, you just have to promise not to tell anyone...
While the summer crowds flock to Platja d'En Bossa close to Ibiza's old town, we slip away unnoticed and head to Ibiza's craggy coves, soft sands and pinetopped vistas to bask in the pristine waters of the Mediterranean, undisturbed. In these hidden havens, far from pulsing beats and chanting beer boys, the only sounds to tickle your ears are those of the soft breathlike waves lapping the shore, the occasional gentle laughter of children playing and the faraway caw of a seagull gliding overhead.
We have combed the rocky coastlines of Ibiza, to identify the best spots to unwind on the welcoming sands of the island's beautiful secret beaches...
Es Torrent
Silence is golden on Es Torrent, a unique beach that sees a blending of both fine sand and smooth pebbles. Sat among tree-topped mounds in the south of Ibiza, Es Torrent is the perfect place to appreciate the natural calm of the beach and the rugged landscape so characteristic of the Balearics. On the sands of this small cove, radios and beach balls are forbidden, to the delight of those who enjoy restful vacations away from the thrumming sound of the tourist hotspots. Bask in the heavenly quiet of this gorgeous beach.
Location : 07830 Sant Josep de sa Talaia
Cala Llentrisca
With its exact location a matter of hushed discussion, Llentrisca beach remains relatively unknown to the general public. Tucked away at the edge of a pine forest, this small beach is a real haven of peace and quiet removed from the noise nuisances of the city. Accessible by foot since the end of Urbanizació Es Cubells road, as you wander the 700-metre walk to reach it, with each step you can almost feel yourself shedding the skin of the world behind you. Once there, you need do little more than enjoy the silence and gaze out at the small fishing boats as they go about bringing in the day's catch.
Given the height and position of the pine-topped cliffs that shelter it, Cala Llentrisca loses its sun by the afternoon. Therefore, arrive early to make the most of this little pocket of peace and enjoy one of Ibiza's unspoilt secret spots.
Location : 07839 Sant Josep de sa Talaia
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Cala Benirras
If it's laid-back entertainment you're after, then Benirras beach in the north of Ibiza might be a good spot for you. In addition to a spectacular view, you will have the chance to attend a night of extraordinary outdoor artistic performances. Every Sunday in late afternoon, as the sun begins its descent into the glistening waters of the Mediterranean ocean, dancing, live music and others festivities create a magical spectacle much appreciated by its visitors.
Location : 07815 Sant Joan de Labritja
Cala d'Albarca
Another picturesque bay located in the unspoiled north of the island, for the intrepid few who manage the tough hike to reach it, the Cala d'Albarca is more a quiet spot to be appreciated than a paradisiacal beach to be enjoyed. The beach is made up of large round rocks and boulders, therefore offering few spots upon which to lay a towel, however some flat rocks can be found. Moreover, the charm of its surrounding landscape are more than worth the journey,
Snorkelling opportunities abound in the turquoise waters, while the bay's hugely photogenic natural rock bridge provides a great spot from which to take it all in. For those seeking something a little more panoramic, head to the top of the cliffs, which tower some 200 metres above sea level, and marvel at the outstanding beauty on show.
You may also want to visit Torres d’en Lluc, the archaeological remains of a former fortification whose precise purpose was been lost to the mists of time.
Location : 07816 Sant Antoni de Portmany
Cala Xarraca
Pine forests, rocks and turquoise waters… You can't fail to be taken back by the simple beauty of Cala Xarraca, a must-see your stay in Ibiza. The startling clarity of the water is perfect for snorkelling, and the charming former fishermen’s huts along the seafront will leave you glowing with the simple visual pleasures on show. Moreover, an excellent seafood restaurant, offering the finest of the day's catch is the perfect place to look out over the bay after not-so-busy afternoon of basking in the understated glory of this fabulous island. Don't miss the natural mud bath at the end of the bay, which is said to possess healing properties for the skin.
Location : Lugar Venda de Xarraco, 52, 07810 Sant Joan de Labritja
Eivissa, the citadel of Dalt Vila
Listed as World heritage by Unesco and belileved to be one of the oldest towns in Europe, the Dalt Vila, the old town of Eivissa, is an open invitation to explore the fascinating history of the island. Enter through the famous Ses Taules portal and make your winding way through the warren-like streets all the way up to the castle where you can enjoy an incredible view over the island. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Museum of Modern Art, try the local cakes made by the nuns at the Church of San Cristobal and learn all about the construction of the town's awesome balwarks.
The mysterious rock of Es Vedrá
Hardly a secret, but certainly an enigma; the countless myths and rumours that swirl around this fabled islet continue to fascinate visitors to these shores. Believed by some to be the spot where Homer's sirens tried to sing Odysseus and his men to shipwreck, to others the tip of the lost city of Atlantis, while there are those who claim it's among the most magnetic places in the world, comparable to the Bermuda Triangle for compass-breaking magnetic energy. It's often difficult to prove these claims, but what we can all agree on is that, when viewed from the cliff top at the end of Cala d'Hort nature reserve, there is something oddly spellbinding about this great geological wonder,
Apparently, Ibiza intends to keep at least some of its secrets, and we're fine with that.
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Sa Taiala
A great place for hiking enthusiasts. Although access can prove somewhat tricky, this walk through Sant Josep, known as Ibiza’s green lung, is bursting with verdant flora: vast stretches of pine tress alongside rolling hills of countless almond trees... the vegetation is luxuriant and once atop Sa Taiala, the highest point in Ibiza, the panoramas, which stretch all the way to Formentera, are heartbreakingly beautiful, proving once again that Ibiza's true charm is not found in the sticky dancefloors of its superclubs but in its natural splendour.
If Spain is known the world over for its popular high-street brands, the authenticity of Ibiza’s talented designers will give you a fresh perspective on Spanish fashion. We take a look at some of the island's undiscovered shops featuring the works of up-and-coming designers.
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Galeria Elefante
Shoppers, you will find your heart’s desire in this pretty gallery showcasing a taste for the unconventional. Gathering a collection of unique pieces drawn from all over the world, Santa Gertrudis's delightful Galeria Elefante offers elegant clothing, interesting paintings and decorative items to adorn your lovely home with. Yet to be discovered by tourists, the setting is intimate and cosy. Anyone looking for a new twist on Balearic fashion would do well to pay Galeria Elefante a visit!
Location: Carretera San Miguel, 07814 Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera
The Rose
Located in the same area, The Rose present sumptuous paintings from artists such as Aldo Kolzac. the Isabel Marant collection, silk dresses and magnificent home accessories are simply enchanting. We guarantee you won’t leave empty-handed! And, the icing on the cake: the shop also doubles as a restaurant offering delicious fresh pasta… Foodies looking to find out more about where to eat in town, may wish to take a peek at our selection of the best traditional beach restaurants.
Location: Carrer Venda de Fruitera, 07814 Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera
The hippie markets of Ibiza
There are countless small markets and pop-up stalls throughout the island, offering items that point to Ibiza's hippie past. Among the most well known are Las Dalias in Sant Carles de Peralta, and Punta Arabi in Es Canár. However, among our favourites is the quieter Forada market, which is an excellent spot to pick up some bottles of Hierbas alongside ceramics and other handicrafts, while avoiding the crowds.
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