Ibiza - Eivissa | Holiday, Vacations, Getaway, Journey, Voyage

The Balearic archipelago is situated in the west Mediterranean, almost equidistant between the French and African coasts, the island of Sardinia and the Spanish coast. The Balearic Islands comprise four main inhabited islands: Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera. In a relatively small area of 5,014 km², the Balearic Islands include very diverse scenery and landscapes and have been a classic tourist destination for more than half a century, but this does not mean they are overcrowded. Their secret lies in being able to offer something to a wide range of options for all on visitors' tastes, their heritage, both natural and historical, makes the islands a mini-continent all to themselves.

Ibiza and its smaller sister island of Formentera are collectively known as the "Islas Pitiusas" (from the Greek word "pitys" meaning pine tree) because of the abundance of pines that cover their landscapes. A green and pristine setting surrounded by crystal clear waters, most of them protected natural area and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, blessed by a balmy Mediterranean climate with sunny days and mild temperatures throughout the year.

Ibiza is the closest Balearic Island to the Spanish mainland, the distance from the Peninsula being 46 nautical miles (86 km.). It has a surface area of 541 sq.km. (208 sq.mi.) and a perimeter of 210 km. (130 mi.) Towards the south, Ibiza sticks out into the sea towards the island of Formentera, from which it is separated by 4 nautical miles and a chain of islets. This small peninsula, flanked by two sandy beaches, hosts Ibiza's famous salt flats, which have been in use since ancient times and still being used with traditional production techniques.

The island's relief is very uneven and mountainous, rising up to 476 m. (1,560 ft.) at S'Atalaia, the highest peak on the island. The countryside slope away to the sea in a north-easterly direction, a beautiful natural landscape of hills and cultivated valleys. To the north of the island, Es Amunts is a chain of mountains stretching along the coast with sheer cliffs while covered with pine and sabina woods, along with junipers, strawberry trees and rosemary.

Generally, the island has a high, sloping, uneven coast leading to the formation of a great many sheltered inlets and coves, alternating with fine sandy beaches, the majority of them lined with pine and sabina trees. There are four harbours on the islands at Ibiza city and San Antonio, which are very busy in summer time and connect the island with the mainland and Formentera, and two smaller ones, Santa Eulalia yacht harbour and Port Sant Miquel anchorage, where fishing boats used to be drawn up onto the beach.

Inland, there are many hidden areas of great charm; small country villages, almond groves, olive and carob trees enclosed by ancient stone walls, along with many fine examples of the island's particular architecture. A stroll, bike ride or horseback riding are great ways to enjoy this scenery.