The Quieter Side of Ibiza

The beaches

Swap those dancing shoes for sandals, or even better bare feet, and kick back on Ibiza’s sandy beaches. Cala Xuclar, surrounded by lush pine trees, is a wild coastal area of Ibiza but has some of the dreamiest clear waters for swimming, and nearby Cala Xarraca is an Instagram photoshoot waiting to happen.

Cala d’Hort is also a fab choice for a quiet retreat. Hidden away in a national park, this beach has managed to keep all of its natural beauty and hasn’t been commercialised by huge hotels and noisy bars. Instead, you’ll find an idyllic spot looking over the mysterious island of Es Vedra that brings serious zen vibes.

The countryside

Many don’t explore Ibiza’s gorgeous interior but if you really want to get away from it all, that’s the place to be. Roam in between the olive groves during the summer and see the almond trees blossom in early spring.

If you’re feeling particularly active, hike up to the highest point of the island for views over San Antonio and the Salinas salt flats. Sa Talaia is 475m (1,558ft) above sea level and can also be reached by a 4x4 if you’re feeling slightly less outdoorsy!

For a coastal walk, there’s a leisurely 4.5km (2.8 miles) hike from Cala Xarraca to Cala Xuclar, which will guide you through lush wooded valleys before emerging out at the coast.

The sunsets

Watch Ibiza’s sky blaze with hues of red, pink and orange as the sun sinks into the Mediterranean Sea and you’re sure to feel peaceful on this beautiful Balearic Island.

There’s no denying that San Antonio’s sunsets slay, but why jostle among the crowds when you can have your own slice of the evening at Cala Salada? This secluded beach is slightly further north than San Antonio and you’ll have the ocean mainly to yourself as the sun sets on another blissful day in Ibiza. Sounds good, right?

Other sunset hotspots to seek out include Las Salinas where the magnificent salt flats reflect the dazzling colours of the sky. Bring your camera!

The Old Town

Now, this place might not be completely quiet but it’s a world away from the nightclubs in San Antonio. The Old Town, or Dalt Vila, gives you an idea what Ibiza used to be like.

Old stone walls, steep cobbled streets and narrow alleys all focus towards the fortress, which towers over the city. Cross the drawbridge of Portal de Ses Taules into a quaint cobblestone courtyard before entering the Plaza de Vila – the main square.

Here you can have your fill of local restaurants and bars, handicraft shops and fresh produce markets, plus fantastic art galleries and museums.

The quieter resorts

For those seeking a little R&R, Ibiza’s gorgeous coastline is home to plenty of quieter holiday resorts that show there's so much more to this island than all-night parties.

Portinax, Cala Llonga and Puerto San Miguel are all great bases for a laidback family holiday, with a mix of long sandy beaches, lots of cafés and bars, weekly hippie markets and heaps of watersports on offer.

The classy bistros and stylish marinas of Santa Eulalia will be right up the street of any sophisticated holidaymakers, while the sheltered sandy bay of Port Des Torrent hits the spot for romantic beach breaks.

Living the island life

For activities away from the crowds, get yourself out on the water. Sailing and island hopping are a great way to make the most of Ibiza’s spectacular scenery.

Embrace island living with a day trip to neighbouring Formentera. This tiny island – just a 30-minute ferry ride from Ibiza – is home to castaway white beaches and an original hippie vibe, making it a top pick for chilled-out escapes.

Set up for the day on Playa Mijorn or Playa Ses Illetes, munch on some fresh coconut or pineapple from the beach vendor and bask in the sun until your heart’s content. We’ll save you a spot.