INTRODUCTION
Ibiza is a Spanish island located in the Mediterranean Sea, 79km from the coast of Valencia. The island is famed for its range of dance clubs and summer party atmosphere.
TYPES OF HOLIDAYS
Though Ibiza has gained a reputation for being the party capital of Europe, the island has always catered to a wide variety of holidaymakers, and the government has launched a campaign to entice many other types of travellers to the island.
Ibiza is only a few hoursâ flight time from the UK so is ideal for visits of almost any lengths. On a budget you can visit for a week and stay in a self catering apartment, or if youâd like a longer, more relaxing holiday you can stay in a resort or rent a villa outside of the main towns.
Whatever type of holiday you are looking for, you are likely to find it in Ibiza.
WHAT'S THE BEST TIME TO GO TO IBIZA?
As Ibiza is located in the Mediterranean it enjoys a mild climate all year round. However, winters do tend to be much cooler and many of the bars, clubs and hotels are closed at this time of year.
The most popular time of year to viist depends on exactly what you're looking for. The most popular time for holidaymakers is during the summer months of May-October, when the weather is at its best and you can enjoy all the touristsâ facilities.
Summer does not necessarily mean that accommodation will be very expensive as hostelries on the island are very competitive with their deals.
SIGHTS TO SEE
The many hippy markets on the island offer bargains on jewellery, clothing and food so are ideal for souvenirs of your trip.
Ibiza Old Town is a great place to spend an afternoon. You can explore the winding streets and old buildings, as well as the romantic Medieval Castle of Dalt Villa. Here you can explore the building and learn more about the history of the area.
And the Can Marcas Caves are a must see to explore the fascinating rock formations, and right at the centre of the caves you will find a spectacular music and light show!
ACTIVITIES
Water sports in Ibiza are extremely popular, and you will be able to hire equipment and get out on the water at most beaches. Jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing and kayaking are some of the many options.
Ibiza boasts miles of stunning coast line, so for a unique way to experience this you can take a boat trip from centres such as Xaloc Charter, IbizaMed Yachting or Dany Boats.
There are a number of diving schools which will give you lessons and allow to explore the vast array of marine life in the area. More experienced divers can explore several caves and shipwrecks such as the cargo ferry Don Pedro near Ibiza Port.
BEACHES
Ibiza is a small island with a large number of beaches, and all of them are accessible either by car or excellent public transport links from major towns and resorts.
The nearest beach to Ibiza Town is Talamanca Beach, roughly 15 minutesâ walk away along the beautiful seafront, or accessible by ferry or bus. Here you can enjoy excellent views of the old town and there are plenty of bars and restaurants along the wooden promenade.
Playa dâen Bossa Beach is very popular with people that enjoy water sports. The strong south wind makes it a mecca for windsurfing and you can also try some jet skiing or hire a pedalo. There are also showers, toilets, bars and restaurants nearby, and the shallow water makes it ideal for families to visit.
Cala Bassa Beach, next to San Antonio, is situated in a beautiful bay and offers pedaloes, a banana boat and volleyball. The sand gently slopes into the warm water, so is also popular with families. Amenities nearby include changing rooms, toilets, showers, bars and restaurants.
NIGHTLIFE
Ibiza Town and San Antonio, on the north of the island, are both teaming with excellent bars and restaurants to enjoy. As both towns are coastal, you can enjoy a relaxing cocktail and enjoy the sea breeze, or head to one of the more hectic bars in the town centres!
Restaurants cater for everybody, with everything from traditional English to Mediterranean and African food served.
Of course the main draw for nightlife in Ibiza are the nightclubs, and you are spoilt for choice!
Pacha, Space, Privilege, Es Paradis and Caf© del Mar are open all summer and play host to many international DJs most weekends. Special weekly events at these clubs include foam parties, fancy dress nights and plenty of drink offers to keep you dancing all night long.
The opening parties in April-May and the closing parties in October are especially popular events of the clubbing calendar.
ACCOMMODATION
From budget self-catering apartments to all inclusive resorts, there is something to suit everybody in Ibiza.
Ibiza Town is the heart of holiday life on the island, with its abundance of restaurants, bars and clubs, so this is a good place to look for accommodation.
Hostel La Marina offers clean and comfortable accommodation for younger holiday makers, with a fantastic location overlooking the port.
El Puerto Hotel and Apartments is great for exploring both the historic part of Ibiza Town and the range of great bars and restaurants around the marina. The hotel offers both bed and breakfast and half board accommodation, while the apartments have their own kitchen so you can keep to your own schedule. There is also a bar and pool area to relax in.
And the Pacha Hotel is 10 minutes from the town centre and offers a more comfortable experience, with stylish rooms, an a la carte restaurant and outdoor swimming pool. Guests even receive free entry to Pacha Nightclub!
Families can choose to stay in the quieter, child-friendly El Greco Hotel and Apartments in Portinatx. Here you can choose between a self catering apartment or an all-inclusive stay with buffet-style meals. There is also a kidsâ club and a water park nearby to keep the children entertained!