One of the largest towns and resorts on the island of Ibiza, in the Spanish Balearics, Santa Eulalia des Riu has a pretty palm tree peppered town square, typical of Ibiza (and Spain for that matter), and this is an ideal spot to order a coffee in one of the surrounding bars, and simply watch the world go by. The beach at Santa Eulalia is, of course, the main attraction, and THE place for enjoying the sunny Ibiza weather, relaxing, or maybe even taking part in some water sports. At night don’t expect the vibrant nightclub scene that you might find in San Antonio or Ibiza Town, but Santa Eulalia is still buzzing, with plenty going on for those who like a bit of nightlife, and entertainment. When you have a spare day, pop along to Es Cana and visit the Hippy Market, the best place to buy gifts for those left at home.
March 31, 2011
May 15, 2010
The West Coast of Ibiza
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.
March 12, 2010
Ibiza Travel in the Balearic Islands
Second largest of the Balearic Islands of Spain, Ibiza has much to offer travellers of all ages and tastes, known as the clubbers capital of Europe, away from the main resorts it is still a mostly rural island with large areas of unspoilt countryside and huge areas of fig, almond and olive groves. Ibiza travel can be a pleasurable experience whether you are seeking a cultural sojourn or a traditional beach holiday, for culture and history you can head for the capital Ibiza Town (Eivissa), founded by the Phoenicians in the seventh century BC, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, its Dalt Vila (Upper Town) is a joy to behold, and is the oldest part of the city, visit the 16th century cathedral located on what has been the site of religious buildings since 283 AD, and the ancient fortifications also dating from the 16th century in their present form. For beaches, and Ibiza has over 50, head for the beautiful west coast, where unspoilt beaches lay in picturesque coves, or the area around Santa Eulalia where you can also visit the famous Hippy Market at Es Cana or simply enjoy the delightful Ibiza weather. Clubbers can head for San Antonio, where this former fishing village offers a wide choice of clubs and discos. Ibiza travel should be fun, try a little of everything to get an idea of what this beautiful island has to offer. Ibiza Map.
October 17, 2009
San Antonio Ibiza
Nowadays one of the most popular resorts on the island, San Antonio Ibiza was formerly just a small fishing village which has existed since Roman times when it was known as Portus Magnus. Developed during the 1950’s and 60’s as a tourist resort, San Antonio went into decline in the 1980’s but sprang back again during the 1990’s as Ibiza became the clubbers capital of the world. Still popular as a family resort and as a ferry port (ferries arrive from Denia on the mainland), it is nonetheless mainly frequented by young clubbers who head for some of the most renowned clubs on the island such as Mambo, Eden and Es Paradis and party until the early hours (or even into the next day). This famous holiday island enjoys a wonderful climate and San Antonio weather is pretty reliable during the summertime when most visitors arrive, the winters are quieter and this could be the best time to visit if you are not looking for the clubbing scene. The attractive San Antonio Bay and busy fishing harbour are a popular place to visit, there are some fine beaches such as Cala Bassa and Cala Conta, and there are some interesting places to visit nearby. San Antonio Ibiza Map.