San Lorenzo (or, to give it its full name in Catalan, Sant Llorenç de Balàfia) is a picturesque hamlet located in the north of the island. While much of the village is strung out along the main Ibiza to San Juan road, the nucleus is reached via the gloriously scenic back road to Santa Gertrudis.

It comprises a roadside grocery shop, a couple of places to eat, a church, a wine bar, and a school. Its population of just over 1,000 inhabitants is spread over the surrounding countryside. In and around it are some excellent hiking paths.

The adjacent hamlet of Balàfia houses some fascinating examples of mediaeval architecture. Dating back to the Islamic era (902 to 1229 C.E.), it includes a grouping of seven houses with two refuge towers and two trulls or olive presses.

To the rear of the church, there is a lovely public park known as Finca Pere Can Mosson, a popular family spot for barbecues, walks, and get-togethers. Please note: from May through October, it is forbidden to make a fire there.

Patron Saint’s day festivities

The town takes its name from Saint Laurence, the Christian figure who was martyred in the 3rd Century C.E. The festivities take place over a period of about three weeks around the Dia de San Lorenzo on 10 August. They include a mass, traditional folk dancing, and events like a cart parade, children's parties, live music, sports, and more.

Interestingly, the festivities coincide with what is known in Spain as San Lorenzo’s Tears, the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, whose spectacular shooting stars were regarded as the burning tears of Saint Lawrence falling from the sky.