Secret Ibiza: Where to find Ibiza’s quieter side

Santa Eulalia

Less known than Ibiza’s major resorts, Santa Eulalia is the ideal spot for a laidback family getaway. With a palm-lined promenade running the length of its sandy beach, as well as amazing restaurants and a handful of art galleries, it’s great if you want all the amenities of a larger resort without the crowds that come with it.

You’ll have a bit of everything on your doorstep, and you can enjoy an afternoon wandering markets and boutiques, perhaps with some stops for a coffee or a civilised glass of wine, rather than late-night indulgence. Be sure to follow the river on a walk up to its gorgeous 18th-century stone bridge or head into Ibiza Town, just half an hour away, when you’re seeking a livelier night.

Portinatx

This is another resort designed for those seeking peace and quiet. Situated on the north coast of the island, which is generally considered the quiet side, it’s about as far away from Ibiza's famous super clubs as you can get.

Its twin beaches S’Arenal Gros and S’Arenal Petit are pristine with shallow waters, sun-loungers and watersports such as wakeboarding and banana boats, while El Port just to the north is a prime snorkelling spot. The surrounding countryside and craggy cliffs are also made for hiking and cycling.

Although the wildest clubs are 40 minutes away, you won't find yourself without nighttime entertainment as there are plenty of bars and restaurants in town.

Formentera

Yes, the tiny island of Formentera is a popular day trip spot from Ibiza but get away from the sandbanks of the north and you will find quiet beaches, sleepy towns and a serenity that’s hard to beat. Technically Formentera isn't part of Ibiza, but the two islands are so intrinsically connected – and just 30 minutes’ apart – that it is easy to enjoy both.

With a small population of 12,000 and just 19km (12 miles) long, this is definitely Ibiza's little sister – but that doesn't mean it has less to offer. The towns and villages of Formentera have peaceful church squares where no one seems to be in a rush, and the beaches feel like a world away from those of busy San Antonio. No wonder it has attracted stars like Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Madonna and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Cala Xuclar

Cala Xuclar feels like one of the last undiscovered spots on Ibiza. This sandy cove is on the wilder north of the island, where a windswept, natural coastline is perfect for enjoying the island's scenery away from the crowds.

Here you will usually find either local Spaniards or expats who have moved to the White Isle and know the score, but it’s only a five-minute drive from either San Juan or Portinatx, making it easy to access.

There’s one small chiringuito (beach bar) offering refreshments, but with its lush green hills and vivid blue water it feels truly unspoilt.

Sa Talaia

Ibiza is a green and fertile island so it’s a shame many visitors don't head inland to discover it. Be one of the few and hike the highest point on the island, Sa Talaia mountain in Sant Josep, for a peaceful and unique experience.

It isn't too tricky, especially if you're used to hiking, and you can make it up the mountain in a little over an hour – of course, you should remember to research your route and take any provisions you might need.

Once you climb the 475m (1,558ft) you will be rewarded with unmatched views over the island and beyond to Formentera – fitting, given Sa Talaia means ‘watchtower’ in Catalan. Avoid the midday heat and head up in the early evening to watch an amazing sunset over San Antonio Bay, with the Mediterranean sparkling below.

Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera

Long a hub for artistic types from across the continent, Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera, smack bang in the middle of the island, has kept its bohemian vibe.

The main square, which is overlooked by a whitewashed fortress church, is the hub of all life in this town, so grab a seat at one of its bars and join the locals watching the world go by.

Don’t miss Bar Costa, where penniless artists used to swap paintings for food, and its galleries and cute arts and crafts shops.

Puerto San Miguel

Puerto San Miguel has a large sandy beach set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs, and it’s a haven for families and those looking for somewhere a little quieter. Once a fishing village, it’s now a small resort town nestled in a cove on the northern side of the island.

You’re well connected by car, bus, and the small ferries that take you to San Antonio and Portinatx. San Miguel is also famous for its artisan market, which runs weekly throughout the summer season.

Las Salinas Natural Park

Salt flats, wetlands, forests, dunes and beaches, including much of the sea between Ibiza and Formentera, make up the 1,786 hectares of this fascinating UNESCO-recognised area.

The salt flats are wonderful for spotting wildlife – twitchers love it for its hundreds of species of birds – and the area has some of the most beautiful beaches in Ibiza. Close to Ibiza Town and busy Figueretes, you'll find its beaches can get busy but the rest? Expect a beautiful spot to get back to nature and enjoy a moment of calm.