Standing at almost 400 metres high, just off the south-west coast of Ibiza, is the magical and legendary rock of Es Vedrà. Many visitors go to marvel at this beguiling landmark when they come here. It's not difficult to see why.
When you get your first proper glimpse of this big, imposing rock, you can't help but feel that magical feeling of joy in your heart. You'll notice how it rises majestically from the sea, almost transmitting a feeling of peace and, dare we say, serenity. It truly is a wonderful sight to see. It's no surprise that people go there to practice meditation.
Viewing Es Vedrá
The best place to view Es Vedrá is from Cala d'Hort beach, where you can gaze out to it at sea level. There is also a viewpoint off the main unpaved car park, 10 minutes up the hill from the beach.
Thanks to its popularity, parking is always in high demand; therefore, it is best to come early in the day to get a spot. Viewing it at sunset is an incredible treat, but be aware that many others will have the same idea, so parking will be particularly difficult at this time.
There are restaurants on the beach, on the cliff above it, and along the coast nearby, where you can enjoy the views with a drink and some excellent food - reservations are recommended!
Many other ways of seeing this rock are available to the visitor. A splendid way of seeing it is from the sea, on one of the many boat trips that pass or go up close to it, such as Capitan Nemo, which runs lovely, family-friendly trips from San Antonio port. Lastly, another way is to charter a boat for the day and spend all the time you want in its glorious company.
For all who want to combine the views with a bit of sport and adventure, Balearic Outdoor Adventures and Ibiza Outdoors offer guided hikes to viewpoints along the coast from where you can marvel at the sight.
A great, no-strain alternative is to go on one of these private four-to five-hour Jeep Tours, which will ensure you get there just in time for the sunset.
Another place to gaze at its splendour is from Hotel 7Pines Resort near Cala Conta or the roof terrace of the Petunia Ibiza, a Beaumier Hotel in Cala Carbó - with a cocktail, of course. If driving, the approach to Cala Carbó beach offers one of the most dramatic views, with the rock looming large before you like a mysterious miracle of nature.
Es Vedrà is shrouded in many myths and legends, the most popular of which is that it is the third most magnetic spot on earth. Mention this to a local, however, and you may be met with a smile - it is indeed just a story.
It seems that Es Vedrà's status as a place of myth-making has been around since ancient times. It was even thought to be home to the Sirens of Greek mythology, who lured sailors to their death with songs, causing them to shipwreck.
It has also been suggested that it is the birthplace of the goddess Tanit, a deity introduced by the once-occupying Phoenicians, whose statue you will see all across Ibiza. Many more legends exist; none of them have, of course, been proved.
However you get to see it, one thing is for sure: once you have been close up to Es Vedrà, it will leave a long-lasting impression on your imagination and make you ache to return.
If you're driving to Es Vedrà, or indeed around the whole of Ibiza, check out Autos Marí, a great local car hire company with vehicles at economical prices and no hidden costs.
