There’s a side of Ibiza that most visitors never get to experience, where the primary soundtrack is birdsong and the gentle tinkle of goat bells. In the quiet northern reaches of the island, with swathes of pine-clad hills and secluded coves, you’ll find an Ibiza that offers lazy mornings, scenic walks, and long lunches in the sun.
Discover the Wild North
Northern Ibiza is defined by the rugged ridge of Es Amunts, a protected natural area of pine forests and dramatic cliffs. The walking trails here are some of the island’s finest, including Punta de ses Torretes and Ses Torres d’en Lluc, where the scent of rosemary fills the air and the views stretch across the Mediterranean.
It’s not just about the landscape. The villages of Santa Inés (Santa Agnès) and San Mateo retain a timeless charm, with whitewashed churches, local farms, and sleepy cafés where life unfolds at a gentler pace.
Stay Local: Slow Travel at Its Best
If you want to experience this more grounded side of Ibiza, base yourself at a rural hotel Ibiza such as Can Pujolet. Just 9km from San Antonio, yet a world away in atmosphere, this beautifully restored 18th-century farmhouse sits among almond trees and dry-stone walls with glorious far-reachng views.
An agritourism stay provides the perfect base for exploring the island’s wild north, offering easy access to beaches, trails, and hilltop villages. Days here might begin with yoga on a shaded deck and end with a glass of wine by the pool. In between, you can wander through olive groves, swim in cystal clear coves, siesta under a fig tree, or watch Eleonora’s falcons circle overhead.
This is Ibiza at its best – authentic, idyllic, deeply restorative, and supporting local communities who live here and farm the land.
Things to Do in Northern Ibiza
The north is rich in nature, culture, and understated experiences. Highlights include:
- Cala Salada & Cala Saladeta – Twin coves with turquoise waters, backed by pine-covered cliffs. Ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and sunset picnics.
- Puerto San Miguel – Hire a boat and explore the coastline at your own pace, discovering caves and hidden beaches.
- San Juan Market – Held every Sunday, this vibrant market blends live music, artisan crafts, and fresh local produce. A must-see for those seeking Ibiza’s creative spirit.
- Dining – Sample fresh seafood at Can Pujol, perched above the bay, or tuck into paella at Balansat, between San Miguel and Benirrás.
- Wellness & Nature – Join a yoga class, or hike through forests where lizards sun themselves on rocks and birdlife fills the air.
Beyond the North: Ibiza’s Party Hotspots Within Easy Reach
While the north’s idyllic landscapes offer the chance for solitude and rest, the famous sunset strip of San Antonio is just 20–25 minutes away, and Ibiza Town, with its cobbled lanes, galleries, and stylish harbourfront, is around 40 minutes by car.
Even iconic venues like Pikes Ibiza, famed for its rock ’n’ roll legacy is within easy reach. Located near San Antonio, Pikes is less than a 20-minute drive from Can Pujolet, making it entirely possible to dip a toe into the island’s nightlife.
The Real Ibiza Awaits
Northern Ibiza offers a chance to experience the island at its most genuine. Staying at a rural hotel Ibiza lets you connect with the land, the locals, and a slower, more soulful rhythm of life.
Image: Unsplash, Annagret Kammer
