The natural jewels of Ibiza: coves, caves, and protected landscapes

White houses, coves that invite you to fall in love with the Mediterranean Sea, the infinite greenery of pine forests, luxury yachts, and sunsets that seem to be taken from a dream. This is how Ibiza, the beautiful island of the Balearic Islands, could be defined in a few words, a destination that never goes out of style and a favorite among celebrities from around the world.

Additionally, Ibiza offers a plethora of natural treasures that can overshadow the luxury and nightlife that attracts everyone planning to visit it. Its party and leisure image blurs when delving into its nature. The largest of the Pityuses islands holds a special charm along its coast: Ibiza's great natural gems, an ideal place for those who want to immerse themselves in its slow-paced lifestyle.

Atlantis, the sunken city of Ibiza

In the southeast of Ibiza, hiking a route through Sa Pedrera de Cala d’Hort, better known as Atlantis, is a must for nature lovers.

This ancient quarry holds many secrets. Marés, the characteristic sandstone of the Balearic Islands, was extracted from it to build part of the walls of Dalt Vila and the castle of Ibiza. This place also served as a refuge for the hippies who arrived on the island in the 1960s, and it was they who gave it the name Atlantis.

Es Vedrá, magnetic sunsets

Very close to Atlantis is another of Ibiza's most enigmatic spots, Es Vedrá, which is also one of the island's most famous locations for its spectacular sunsets. Although reaching the Es Vedrá viewpoint is not an easy task due to the uphill hike, the reward is definitely worth it. There is no better prize than watching the sun hide on the horizon while illuminating this place full of energy.

The Cueva de la Luz, magic in the north of the island

While the south of the island is the most touristy area, we must not forget about the north of Ibiza, which hides countless natural charms. One of them is the Cueva de la Luz, a place that is difficult to access but full of magic. This cave is perfect for those seeking adventure and, above all, an ideal spot for hiking and diving enthusiasts, actually being a paradise for scuba diving lovers.

Although its official name is Na Coloms, the first people who discovered this corner chose to call it by that peculiar name, “Cueva de la Luz”. To check its meaning, just arrive there at noon and lean out over the cave to contemplate an unforgettable sight, where sunbeams enter the gallery and intermingle with the blue color of the water, creating a unique view.

Ses Salines, a natural park right in the Mediterranean

The greatest natural gem of Ibiza is the Ses Salines Natural Park, which extends across almost the entire southern part of the island, the northern part of Formentera, and the islets that separate both islands. In 1999, UNESCO declared its oceanic Posidonia meadows a World Heritage Site, which is responsible for the crystal-clear waters of the Pityusic Islands. This aquatic plant oxygenates the sea and filters the sand, explaining why the beaches of both islands are so white and their water has that characteristic turquoise color. The park is also a paradise for bird watching. More than 200 species such as flamingos, stilts, and grebes rest and nest in the park during their migrations.

In addition to being a true treasure of nature, the park area preserves remnants from the Phoenician era such as the Sa Caleta settlement, located between Es Codolar and Puig des Jondal. It also features remains from more recent but equally interesting periods, such as the 16th-century watchtower of Sal Rossa, the small church of Sant Francesc de s’Estany, the Sa Revista church -a modest yet beautiful temple where salt workers used to pray, next to Es Cavallet beach- and the Ses Portes tower, all dating back to the 18th century.

Ibiza is not just about partying, it also has natural attractions to enjoy a more peaceful stay

And when thinking about an idyllic beach in Ibiza, it is best to give the example of Ses Salines Beach, one of the most famous on the island. This enclave is protected by a sea of dunes, and it is common to come across celebrities who arrive in Ibiza to enjoy a few days of disconnection. Why could that be? Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that in this sandy area, one can perfectly appreciate the purity and transparency that the Mediterranean Sea in Ibiza boasts.