Ibiza is fast becoming known the world over as a hotspot for the jet set.
In the summer, its easy to spot luxury cars pulled up along some of the worlds most expensive super yachts. Hollywood A-Listers are flocking to the island’s ultra modern 5-star hotels, and rumour has it that direct flights between New York and Ibiza are set to start in 2015.
However if you are looking for a slice of the old life in Ibiza, then the area surrounding San Miguel is the place to go. Far from the crowds, this tranquil corner of Ibiza offers a way of traveling back in time to the Mediterranean life of old. With a wide range of tranquil beaches, traditional churches and beautiful natural ambiance, there is always something to do to pass the time during lazy days on the island.
Accommodation for all budgets is available, and in San Miguel you can get a taste of history meets modern in one of ibiza’s luxury holiday villas, or rent rooms in traditional farms and “agroturismo” resorts. A number of package hotels are also available for those looking for a more traditional type of holiday.
Port of San Miguel
Visit the Bay of Puerto de San Miguel about 5 kilometres south of the village with the same name. The sandy beach arcs around the bay, dotted with pine-covered hills and nature trails just waiting to be explored.
The waters are ideal for swimmers, as the bay is sheltered by sheer cliffs that plunge into the Mediterranean. Water sports are readily available, such as waterskiing and canoeing. It’s also a popular spot for snorkeling, particularly around the rocky areas.
Can Marçà Caves
Stunning waterfalls and geologic wonders await in the Can Marçà Caves in the north part of the island. Located in the Port of San Miguel, this one time smugglers hotspot is now a fascinating point of interest with its 100,000 years of history seeming to echo around its walls and caverns. Stalactites and stalagmites bespeak of the passing of vast geologic epochs, all beautifully and artistically illuminated in colourful lighting for today’s visitors.
Bay of Cala Benirrás
The bay of Calal Benirrás is just 4km away from the port, framed with pine forests that cover the cliffs. A few restaurants provide refreshments as you enjoy basking in the sun and in the warm waters. The seabed is rather rocky here, and ideally suited to snorkelling with its clear waters. Be sure to stick around for a perfect Mediterranean sunset.
Other things to see
Time stands still at the 14th century church which overlooks Sant Miguel de Balansat. During the summer months, every Thursday the church hosts traditional folk dancing, which is a delight to watch. Further down in the village, Thursday is also market day in the square where all kinds of crafts and local produce are on display ready to be bought as ideal holiday mementos or gifts for someone.
An easy way to see the sites is to catch the Tourist Train. Not a train at all, but rather a motorised train shaped tractor with passenger trailers pulled behind that will take you passed forests and valleys. You will be able to stop and wander around San Juan and absorb its atmosphere before a walk around the 18th century church. From San Juan, the train takes you on where you’re free to browse the shops and enjoy the beach before heading back to San Miguel with some more breathtaking photo opportunities along the way.
