Ibiza is much more than sun and beach. For those who are looking to discover its most authentic side, the hiking is one of the best ways to get into the in the rural landscapes, the mountains and the most secluded coves of the island. From the extreme north to the south coast, the Ibicencan territory offers a network of routes of all levelsmany of them perfectly signposted and with maps available for download through the web pages of the municipalities.
Sant Joan has several itineraries that go through rural, forest and coastal areas. One of the most complete is the route of es Amuntsof about 20 kilometers if it is done in a circular way. It starts from the town of Sant Joan or from the Cala de Sant Vicent, and allows to know rural landscapes, traditional fountains, old wells such as the Pou des Baladreas well as the church of Sant Vicent.
Defense tower of Portinatx / J.A. Riera
The route along the Camí Vell of Portinatx18 kilometers long, connects Sant Joan with this northern tourist center following old cart tracks. The route, which crosses valleys, mountains and areas of traditional beehives, presents a certain physical demand because of its slopes, so it is recommended to walk it during the fall, winter and spring months, when temperatures are milder.
Another interesting option is the Cala Xarraca routeof 14 kilometers. It starts in Sant Joan and runs along trails through forests to reach this cove of crystal clear waters. The return offers panoramic views of the bay. From Cala Xarraca you can also take the route of es Caló de s’Illa16 kilometers long. It is a quiet and little traveled route that crosses one of the most unspoiled areas of the north coast of the island, and that allows you to discover hidden coves such as s’Illa d’en Caldés. The stretch of back ascends towards the Puig de sa Talaiawhich adds a point of difficulty.
For those who are looking for combining sea and mountain scenery, the route of Benirràs starts from the Port de Sant Miquel and leads to this emblematic cove, known for its cap Bernat islet.
Another proposal is the Balansat routethis route, almost 19 kilometers long, connects Port de Sant Miquel with the village of Sant Miquel de Balansat. In the middle of the route, it is advisable to make a pause at the public estate of Can Cosmifrom where you can contemplate panoramic views of es Amunts. Already in the village, it is worth visiting es Puig de Missaone of the oldest churches on the islandbuilt between the 15th and 16th centuries.
Finally, the Balàfia routeof about 15 kilometers, joins Sant Miquel with Sant Llorenç. Along the way you can visit the historical site of Balàfia, an excellent example of the traditional architecture, in addition to the public estate of Can Pere Musson and the environmental interpretation center of es Amunts.
The Great Route
Santa Eulària also offers routes for all levels. Among all of them, highlights the Great Routea 63-kilometer route to be done in stages and that links several signposted sections, recovered roads and historic trails. Starts and ends at the town halland passes by places of interest such as Cala Espart, the church of Jesús, the old camí des Pedrisset or the Las Dalias street market. Along the way, the hiker discover the agricultural heart of the island and places of great heritage value, such as the roman aqueduct of s’Argamassa.
Descent towards ses Balandres, in the municipality of Sant Antoni / Stock
In the municipality of Sant Josep is sa Talaia, the highest point of Ibizawith 475 meters of altitude. Climbing to the top is a highly recommended activity for those seeking panoramic views of the island in all directions. Also worth a visit sa Pedrera de Cala d’Hort and its surroundings, a route that runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views of the islet of es Vedrà.
At Sant Antonithe plains of Santa Agnès and Sant Mateu is a ideal activity to do with the familyespecially in the almond blossom time. For the most experienced, the route to ses Balandres is a worthwhile challenge. It is, however you need to be well equipped and have a certain amount of experiencethe final stretch to the sea is steep and has areas of difficult access.
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