Considered by many to be the most beautiful part of the holiday island of Ibiza is the stunning west coast, with its rugged pine-clad coastline backed by mountains and hills, well known for its splendid beaches it comprises a series of isolated coves and bays which are still mostly unspoilt by mass tourism. In contrast to these pretty area the vibrant resort of San Antonio (Sant Antoni de Portmany) is a little ‘tacky’ and a world away from the traditional Ibizan town, developed from a small fishing village San Antonio is now an ugly urban sprawl of hotels and apartment blocks catering for Europe’s young ravers who dance through the night in the town’s popular night-clubs. San Antonio does however have a history and was known in Roman times as Portus Magnus, and favoured for its excellent natural harbour, unfortunately little remains of its early history and culture seekers will have to make do with a visit to the 14th century fortified church in the Plaça de Esglesia. Some of the best known beaches in the area include Cala Conta, Cala Bassa, Ses Fontanelles and Cala Salada. A little to the north you will find a pretty village, high in the hills amongst almond orchards, called Santa Agnes de Corona, this is a bit more like a traditional village, with its quaint little church and laid back atmosphere. If you are booking car hire whilst visiting the area you can explore some of the more out of the way places and a number of isolated resorts in picturesque coves include Cala Moli, Cala Vedella and Port d’es Torrent, all relatively unspoilt and perfect for a visit or for a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle of San Antonio. Other places worthy of a visit on the Ibiza west coast are the town of Sant Josep de sa Talaia, the Roman cemetery at Ses Paises de Cala Hort, the watch tower of Es Savinar and the islet of Es Vedra rising vertically from the sea off the south-west coast.