IBIZA, Naturally.

It is without doubt that Ibiza is one of the most famous cities in the Balearic Islands for its spectacular clubbing scene, foodie credentials and luxury accommodation. However, you will discover that there is far more to Ibiza when you journey past the white washed walls and disco lights and discover the natural world that lies beyond. Ibiza boasts two world-class nature reserves, each adorned with flora, fauna, landscapes and wildlife that will take your breath away. Here you’ll find mysterious caves, ancient monuments, folklore, almond groves and olives trees, crystal clear waters and rugged rock formations and the homes of a cornucopia of birds and beasts.

The es Vedrà und es Vedranell and the rocky islands of Poniente Nature Reserve

Set to the south west of the island, in the municipality Sant Josep de sa Talaia, you’ll find the nature reserve of es Vedrà und es Vedranell and the rocky islands of Poniente Nature Reserve. As one of the island’s most spectacular attractions, the reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by unspoiled beaches, cliffs and a horizon of rocky islands that make this place unique. If the sea, nature and their surroundings are your passion, then es Vedrà und es Vedranell and the rocky islands of Poniente Nature Reserve is your go-to place to leave your cares behind, take time out and just be at one with nature on holiday.

Es Vedra is a small island that reaches almost 400m high, made of limestone and set like a beacon within the Mediterranean Sea. Surrounded by legends and mystery, it is thought to be the tip of the sunken city of Atlantis and the home of Homer’s wailing sirens who lured sailors to their peril.

Es Vedra is also the setting for one of Ibiza’s popular fables. Es Gegant des Vedrà or The Giant of Es Vedra is the story of two brothers who, set about curing their father of an incurable illness. They venture to the Es Vedrà island together to find rock samphire and, once there, come across a huge giant living upon the island, huddled in a rugged cave. The two brothers are cunning and, together with the assistance of sea urchins, manage to debilitate the giant and succeed in collecting the samphire for the cure.

Throughout the years, the island’s only habitant was a monk who took residence in the mid 19th century, in order to escape the rest of the world. Aside from reportings of UFOs and other fantastical sightings, you’ll find only animals amongst the slopes and island caves. Wild goats roam, Ibizan wall lizards dart from rock to rock and an endangered species of falcons call it their home.

Part of the reserve and the highest point in Ibiza, Sa Talaiassa stands tall at 473 metres high and is rich with lush vegetation and rare animal inhabitants. The peak is reachable by foot, or for the less active enthusiast, by car. Whether by foot or wheels, once you arrive, you will thank your lucky stars you made the journey. The views are simply spectacular and when the weather allows it, you can see right over to mainland Spain and Mallorca. It’s no wonder that the name translates to ‘Watchtower’.