Ibiza is famous for its beaches, coves with turquoise waters and nightlife, but you just have to travel a few miles away to see another side of the island. And for that reason, today we propose a road trip through the towns and villages of Ibiza.
The more rural part still houses whitewashed farmhouses, fortified churches, almond groves and small villages that you would not typically associate with Ibiza. So if you want to discover a more unknown part of the island, we recommend renting a car to move around freely.
Below, we propose a circular route, ideal for a one- or two-day trip, to visit some of the most charming towns and villages in the interior and north of the island. Take note!
Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera: the island’s creative heart
We start the road trip through the towns and villages of Ibiza in Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera, right in the centre of the island. Although it is a small village, it is quite lively all year round and combines tradition with a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
In the square you can visit the 18th-century white church, which is the perfect meeting point to start the day with a good coffee. In the surrounding area you will find art galleries, handicraft stores and restaurants with local cuisine and international proposals.
Sant Miquel de Balansat: tradition and views of the north
After about 20 minutes by car you reach Sant Miquel de Balansat, one of traditional Ibiza’s most famous villages. Take note of the essential stops in this village:
- The fortified church, located on top of a small hill.
- The port of Sant Miquel, for a stroll by the sea.
What’s more, this Ibizan village has many quiet paths for walking, breathing fresh air and enjoying the rural environment. Although hard to believe, there is a greener and less-crowded Ibiza.
Sant Joan de Labritja, an essential stop on the road trip through the towns and villages of Ibiza
Continue the road trip through the towns and villages of Ibiza towards Sant Joan de Labritja, in the far north. It is one of the smallest and most authentic towns on the island, surrounded by hills and Mediterranean vegetation. The atmosphere is much calmer and more relaxed here than in other areas of Ibiza.
As in most parts of the region, the square is the best place to stop, relax and enjoy the local lifestyle. In addition, the roads around this town pass through some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes.
Sant Carles de Peralta: rural essence and hippie spirit
If you go down to the east of the island, you will reach Sant Carles de Peralta, a village with a strong cultural identity. Historically, it has always been linked to the hippie movement of the ‘60s and ‘70s, and that essence still lives on in its stores and markets.
The church and the main square lie at the heart of the village. From here, you can drive to some nearby coves or simply eat in any of its traditional restaurants. It is a good stop, because it is a good representation of all the facets of the island.
Sant Josep de sa Talaia: between countryside and mountains
The final point of this route through the towns and villages of Ibiza is Sant Josep de sa Talaia, one of the largest municipalities of the island. It is known for its coves, but the urban areas retain the charm of Ibizan villages, with white houses, a central church and a relaxed atmosphere.
From here, you can approach the highest point of the island, Sa Talaia, if you want to end this road trip with panoramic views. The road has spectacular scenery and is also well connected with the other (more and less touristic) parts of the island. You can then head back to the airport or to your accommodation.
The great advantage of touring the island by car is that you have absolute freedom to make as many stops as you want. The distance between each place is usually no more than 25 to 30 minutes by car, so it is easy to adapt the route to the time you have available.
And yes, Ibiza is much more than beaches and nightclubs. To take a road trip through the towns and villages of Ibiza, rent your car at Ibiza Airport (IBZ) with OK Mobility and start touring the most touristic and also the lesser-known side of the island.
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