For the launch of the wilderness experts' latest addition to its extensive catalogue of land-and-sea-based expeditions, Spotlight sent out two of its most intrepid team members, keen to experience the hike first-hand. Along with team leader Stivi, assisted by Andy, and three others, we embarked on an unforgettable outing replete with breath-taking vistas, a genuine sense of companionship and a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean, all the while learning lots about the island's rural heritage and its unique flora and fauna.
Stivi had chosen the route beforehand: the Ses Balandres hike - a medium-level one - set amid the gorgeous area known as Es Amunts (the highlands) in the island's rugged, wild northwest. With Balearic Outdoor Adventures, you always know what awaits you as they make a point of discussing the activity with you in advance. Like this, you are aware of all the important details, times, distances and requirements etc., and they find out about you, your suitability for the walk and any other vital information.
We met up at the car park beside the typical local bar/cafe Sa Palmera (ideal for a pre-hike coffee and post-event refreshment), in the tiny hamlet of Santa Inés (Santa Agnés in Catalan). Once assembled, Stivi spread out his map and showed us the day's route. From there, we set off along a rural lane, typical Ibizan country farmhouses (fincas) to either side of us. Talk about a blissfully bucolic start to the day!
No sooner had we left the road than Stivi pointed out the first of the many classic features of the Ibiza landscape with which he entertained us en route. We enjoyed his gentle questioning approach to enlightening us. "See this flat circle of ground in front of the farmhouse - what do you imagine it was?" Our initial guesses - early dance floor, helipad, were, alas, off track. It turned out to be what is called an 'era', used by homesteaders for threshing cereals with the aid of donkeys or horses. So much the wiser, we headed into the woods beyond.
There are regular stops along the trail to catch your breath and have a sip of water. Stivi asks us how we are feeling and announces ahead of time what the next section is like and which point we are heading to. Incorporating history, folklore, personal hiking knowledge (as a native of Switzerland, he's got wayfaring in his blood!) and fascinating facts about local wildlife and vegetation, these terrestrial trips are not only great fun, but positively educational.
Shortly, we reached our first viewpoint, a magnificent panorama of a deep gorge with sheer rock faces and striated geological formations all the way down to the inviting blue of the sea below. There's nothing quite like the sight of the water to inspire you to keep going.
From here, we skirted the ridge to arrive at our next, equally impressive view.
Then it was back down the path through the fragrant, shade-affording pine forest to our first view of the cove of Ses Balandres (named after a type of fishing vessel). We could even make out the tiny rustic fishermens' huts far below. Once more, Stivi carefully explained what lay ahead and gave us instructions as to how to descend to the sea and the exact terrain we would encounter.
The exquisitely formed rocky outcrop that forms one of the group of islets known as Ses Margalides beckoned to us from afar. Like all the rest stops, this one is perfect for taking those all-important photos and videos to show those at home. We debated whether the ripples close to the islet were a pod of dolphins or simply where two currents met. You never know what you will see on these excursions.
The way down involved a variety of hiking conditions ranging from wooded trails and sections of boulders that required some scrambling to steep gullies; there's no question that this is an invigorating challenge! Needless to say, the sense of achievement you get is priceless.
One last crag from which to gaze at the bay for our all-round Antipodean adventurer, Luke.
The anticipation as we approached the rocky beach was palpable. You'd be surprised how fast you can get your kit off when faced with the immaculate aquamarine waters of the island's untouched northwestern coastline!
Apart from a couple of colourful, harmless jellyfish, some small fish and a handful of people aboard their boats, we had the place to ourselves. It really is a side of Ibiza you can only appreciate by sea or on such a well organised walking tour. We lingered for long enough to enjoy the snacks we'd brought, cool off, rehydrate, stretch our legs and converse with our fellow ramblers before the return journey.
Within an hour, we'd reached the top of the trail. Our aching muscles were relieved as we descended through the woods, back along the country lane to the bar where we quaffed some ice-cold refreshments, compared notes on the outing and said our final farewells. Both of us on the team enthused about the experience and told Stivi to keep us posted as to upcoming hikes.
Honestly, it's empowering and utterly addictive - a feat that heals mind, body and soul, putting you in touch with a side of Ibiza that few are familiar with.
So, whether you're looking to meet fellow nature lovers, discover hidden corners of the island, or simply enjoy some health-restoring time away from the crowds, these Friday hikes (just €50 per person, including insurance and taxes) are an affordable way to experience Ibiza's beautiful natural landscapes. Which week will you join?
Contact Balearic Outdoor Adventures today to book your Walk on the Wild Side!
