Ibiza's universal appeal, the internet age and the camera phone means few things are secret nowadays. You find scores of information on the best restaurants, beaches and natural beauty spots at your fingertips - and everybody has their favourites.
For each Dalt Vila (Ibiza Town's walled citadel), Es Vedrà and Sunset Strip, there are a dozen other lesser-known wonders that Ibiza offers. Some of our selection here remained local secrets for years, with good reason.
If you do venture out to discover these places, please do so responsibly. They are special and deserve to remain that way, so avoid littering or damaging anything in your path and leave only your footprints. Here is our selection of some of the best awe-inspiring places to visit.
Las Puertas del Cielo
Surrounded by pine forest, this secluded lookout point just outside of Santa Agnès is a real isolated gem. The literal translation of its name is "Heaven's Gate". Named accordingly, because the rocky outcrop in front of it, Ses Margalides, has a natural gate-like arch and the sea seemingly extends into infinity. It's especially beautiful at sunset, though a great spot for a moment of solace at any time of day.
Es Amunts Natural Parkland
Stretching all the way from San Antonio in the west to San Carlos in the east is the 15,000-hectare, protected park of Es Amunts. There's rugged coastline, mountainous peaks, fields and an abundance of indigenous wildlife. Easier to explore are the coastal areas of Cala Xarraca (pictured), San Miguel port and Cala Salada, though as it accounts for over 25% of the island, many more jewels lie within with routes to discover them.
Punta Galera
Just a little further south of Cala Salada on the west coast lies Punta Galera, north of San Antonio on the road to Santa Agnès. Known for rock formations that form unusual natural shelves, they also provide the perfect flat platform to lay down your towel and soak up the rays. These shelves also double up as a stairway down to the sea, making navigation slightly less hazardous. Totally unspoilt, you won't find any brash beach clubs or loud thudding music here. A rare noise-pollution-free zone. Bliss.
Sa Talaia
The highest mountain in Ibiza, Sa Talaia, stands at 475 metres tall, gazing out over the south west coast of Ibiza. Its name translates as ‘watchtower’ in Catalan, and it certainly feels like one, with its incredible views of rolling green hills and the surrounding countryside.
The pretty town of San José that sits at its foot can also be seen, and is the base for the walk to reach its peak. With viewpoints along the way, expect to stop and start to take it all in, but it is the peak that provides the truly breathtaking scenes.
The village of San Juan
The world is getting smaller - and that is equally true of Ibiza. San Juan, however, remains almost in a suspended time lock. The island's northernmost village is quaint and completely free of international enterprise. Yes, it's virtually a brand-free zone apart from the banks. San Juan can even claim to have some of the most unique building design in all the Balearics. Sundays, which host the ever-popular market, is one of the best times to go for hustle and bustle. Catch the live music as you sip on the island favourite, Hierbas ibicencas, to feel like a real local.
El Faro de Punta Moscarter
Otherwise known as the Punta de Moscarter lighthouse, its distinct spiral design adds an artistic feature to the northernmost point of Ibiza. The tallest in the Balearics, it is a beacon not just for passing ships at night but for hikers, who want to take in the impressive views the trek to the top offers.
Begin at the carpark area, just on the edge of the pretty town of Portinatx. While not a particularly difficult walk, be aware that in capturing those picturesque views, some parts will bring you quite close to the cliff edge.
Salinas to Cap d'es Falco hike
Towering 136 metres above sea level and home to a variety of birds of prey, the view from Cap des Falco on the southern tip is as much a rewarding experience as conquering it. Get some fresh air in your lungs and take the trek from Las Salinas. Be advised, this isn't a walk suitable for novices. With five challenging peaks on the route, you will need to be well-equipped and suitably attired. The payoff is the stunning view out across the salt flats (pictured) once you reach the summit.
Secret Beaches
Ibiza's beaches are known the world over. Sometimes, though, it's better to escape the crowds and find your own secluded spot of sand. Two of our favourites are Cala d'Albarca and Cala Llentrisca (pictured). The former is shielded by cliffs on each side, keeping it well hidden. Marvel at the natural bridge of stone at the first beach. Peacefully idyllic.
Ibiza has so much to discover, we suggest taking some time to explore yourself, or why not let a guided tour show you the hidden trails. If you want to capture the island’s beauty under the warm glow of sunset, then our guide to the best spots will light the way.
