10 Surprising Reasons That You’ll Fall in Love With the Magical Island of Ibiza…
No, it’s not just parties!
Oh Ibiza, ‘la Isla Bonita, ‘the White Isle, my soul island.
I’ve been travelling to Ibiza for 14 years and have now lived there twice, and though I guarantee you’ll hear that ‘the island has changed a lot’ from many Ibiza veterans, there’s something about this little slice of Mediterranean paradise that many still find impossible to resist.
No matter how many islands you have visited before, I’m confident to say that none of them will be like Ibiza.
An island that entices all kinds of travellers with its glittering offerings, from the selection of beaches to the range of restaurants, the legendary stories, and its world-famous party scene.
Ibiza is the kind of place that first attracts you, then turns you into an eternal fan.
A fan that can’t help but resist returning year after year, each time discovering more of its incredible beauty and twisted reality.
So what exactly will you love about Ibiza?
The scenery
There’s nothing quite like a boat day in Ibiza.
Cruising along those crystal-clear waters and admiring the ever-changing landscape of this mesmerising island — from the rocky coves to the startling Es Vedra — there are few places that can offer views like those offered in Ibiza.
And it’s not just from the water. Watching the sunset over Es Vedra is one of the islands most popular activities, as is taking a stroll in the enchanting Dalt Vila.
Ibiza offers an array of beautiful sights as well as a seamless transition of Mediterranean colours, from the deep blue of the sea to the luscious green of the countryside and, of course, those classic Balearic white-washed buildings.
The beaches
The real star of the show in Ibiza? The parties are world-class, yes, but I believe the main attraction in Ibiza should actually be the island’s collection of breathtaking beaches.
Yes, they really are that spectacular. From stunning stretches with fine white sands to red-rock, cliff-edged coves, many think of Ibiza as the top destination for club hopping, but Ibiza insiders also know it as the perfect choice for beach hopping.
Though many of the most beautiful beaches are located on the West Coast, those who venture off the beaten track in the north are sure to discover some special surprises.
The countryside
I’m sure it doesn’t often feature on many Ibiza hot lists, but one of my favourite things about Ibiza is its alluring green countryside. Driving here can be a beautiful dream thanks to its gorgeous green centre (though it also has the potential to be a bit of a nightmare if you’re not prepared — more on that another time!).
And for an island that’s hailed as party central, many don’t expect to find such a heavenly nature here. In reality, the Ibizan countryside can be home to a whole different kind of island experience.
The perfect base for transformative retreats, the location of a growing farm-to-table movement, and ultimately, a slower-paced, peaceful escape that offers a window into an Ibiza that is no longer found in the nightclubs and hangouts of the south.
The community
Ibiza: an island long recognised as a meeting point for eclectic characters and a melting pot of cultures. Locals and veterans will tell you that the dance floors have long been a place where many unexpected relationships have been forged. And that the island has also long been the answer for many seeking a thrilling new place to call home.
This magic is so sought after, in fact, that The Balearic Institute of Statistics shared figures that showed, even way back in 2005, more of the residents were born elsewhere than on the island itself.
Actually, Ibiza has a very long history of artists seeking out the solace and beauty of the island as a source of inspiration and peace, so much so that it has earned itself a reputation as a creative hub for many talents.
And though these days many will refer to the island’s main scene as a mixture of hippie and spiritual communities, luxury experience travellers, and a healthy dose of young party tourists thrown in for good measure, the diversity of visitors to Ibiza is far greater.
Accommodation
Having visited at least 20 of the island’s varied hotels, I’m positive that Ibiza has an accommodation option to suit everyone. From hidden hideaways to lux resorts, deep in the countryside to right by the beach, navigating the island’s distinct hotel offerings is a shining example of the benefit of working with a Travel Designer who knows the island well.
Do I have favourites? Of course I do. But I won’t be revealing them here. Because it really depends on the client and experience that you are looking for. One thing I can assure you about the accommodations in Ibiza is that whether your style preference is sleek, authentic, modern, traditional, indulgent, quirky, or romantic, I’ll have plenty of suggestions and insider knowledge to help you make the right decision.
Restaurants
If you like world-class restaurants, Ibiza will certainly impress. If you prefer a pukka paella by the beach, or a taste of local tapas, you’ll find plenty of choices to enjoy.
There’s also a restaurant vibe to meet every need.
Fancy a bit of barefoot luxury dining? The options are endless. Prefer a rustic and authentic experience that reminds you that you are actually in Spain? Ibiza has them.
What if you want to dance straight after dinner without even leaving the premises? Ibiza is the place.
From calm and casual to exceptionally elegant (and, I’d say, even distinctly daring), the Ibiza restaurant scene is a strong competitor for even the most cosmopolitan of cities around the world.
Cute Cafes
Looking for an array of cafes to live out your digital nomad dreams?
Or maybe you just love cafe culture and enjoy seeking out special spots to enjoy that morning cappuccino?
Luckily for you, the island is home to a lovely selection of cute cafes.
Though many of the island’s famous cafes are conveniently located in the frequently visited Ibiza town or Marina Botafoch area, those moving around the island will benefit from their chance to also seek out those dotted around in the smaller villages and along country roads.
The hikes
After describing the island’s scenery a little, you may have already guessed that it is a great spot for hiking.
In fact, Ibiza is full of popular hiking trails, as well as many that are both lesser known and lesser attempted. An island hike could take you to the legendary Atlantis or even to a secret cove. It could also take you on a simple, peaceful stroll through a magnificent pine forest.
There are coastal routes and walks through the olive groves. You can also simply explore the island on foot, discovering sleepy villages and other surprises along the way.
How do you discover these walks? Ibiza can be found on popular apps such as All Trails and Kamoot, as well as offering many local-led hikes and, of course, the opportunity to freestyle fairly safely solo.
The Variety
After reading to this point in the list, it’s likely obvious that, contrary to popular knowledge, Ibiza is actually a place of great variety.
Experiences and activities are certainly not limited to parties; the island has an incredible offering from hiking to horseriding, gourmet experiences to breath-work classes, and the clientele varies from families to couples, young and old friends to solo travellers.
Far from being a one-trick pony, Ibiza is actually a source of endless enjoyment and fun for those who live both by day and by night. And even more so for those who live by both!
As for the island’s famous ‘magnetic energy’, Nel-Olivia Waga says in her Forbes article, ‘Geologists recognize it as the world’s third most magnetic point, and it’s an intriguing thought that it somehow contributes to Ibiza’s seemingly inexhaustible energy’.
The legendary party scene
How could I not finish the list with the island’s main claim to fame: Ibiza’s legendary party scene.
It’s home to some of the biggest and most iconic nightclubs in the world, but in-the-know partygoers will also tell you that the fun extends way past the main clubbing scene.
From glittering beach clubs to pumping pop-ups and exquisite invite-only villa parties, Ibiza rocks the party scene like no other destination in the world. It has a reputation that has not only attracted a growing number of electronic music lovers but also some of the world’s most notorious party-loving celebs and elite.
As a key player in the party scene from the laidback flower power days of the 60s to the birth of disco in the 70s and the rave culture of the 80s and beyond, with a history like Ibiza’s, where else could really compare?
