Striking an imposing but beautiful shadow over the island's modern capital Ibiza Town, sits the fortification of Dalt Vila.
Dalt Vila is one of the best preserved medieval settlements found in Europe. Initially founded by early Phoenician settlers who named it Ibosim, the majority of its defences were erected between the 14th and 17th Century.
Inside the city walls there is a labyrinth of small cobbled streets, lined with romantic restaurants and boutiques with traditional Ibiza fashion.
Also found within it are multiple breathtaking locations. While they are only used for special occasions (typically once, sometimes twice, a year), they rank amongst the best outdoor party spots you'll find anywhere on the planet.
Baluarte de Santa Lucía
The bastion Baluarte de Santa Lucía on the city wall of Dalt Vila is one of the most spectacular spots on Ibiza. Once a year it hosts the ultimate open-air party for the Grand Finale of the International Music Summit (IMS).
This spot has amazing views over the port of Ibiza Town and of the cathedral set in the higher part of the Old Town. A unique spot, Baluarte de Santa Lucía is not only one of the best locations on the island to throw a party, but up there with the very best in the world.
The IMS Grand Finale is always an early highlight of summer, which marks the start of another tourist season. It coincides with the big club opening parties (such as Amnesia, Pacha, [UNVRS], Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza) that kick-off over the same weekend.
Baluarte de Sant Pere
On the opposite side, the bastion Baluarte de Sant Pere is another rampart of the ancient defensive walls of Ibiza Town. It's sometimes used as an open-air events venue, including alfresco cinemas and, more pertinently, our very own fiftieth birthday party (yes, we really are that old!)
It is situated right next to the lovely square of Plaza del Sol, which boasts a great namesake restaurant and some lovely little bars.
You can access the Plaza via a tunnel from Parque Reina Sofía. Alternatively, use the main ramp at Portal de ses Taules, which ascends into the Old Town. Go to the right and follow the narrow roads upwards until you have reached the rampart, which sits on the corner of the city wall.
Famous for: IMS Grand Finale parties, spectacular views across the port and out to the Med, being home to some of the island's best restaurants, being equally enjoyable on a quiet night where the simplicity of an evening stroll is enough to appreciate its beauty
How to get there: It is a nice walk up from the port/centre of Ibiza Town. Head towards the old city walls and at the old market square you'll find the ramp that takes you up to Dalt Vila and the Baluard de Santa Llucia.
Popular Parties: IMS Grand Finale (Baluarte de Santa Lucía) and Ibiza Spotlight's 50th Anniversary (Baluarte de Sant Pere). Apart from that, Dalt Vila is also a very popular place during the Ibiza Medieval Festival, which normally happens the second weekend in May, and for the Ibiza Jazz Festival beginning of September.
Resort: Ibiza Town (Eivissa)
