A week exploring the pearl of the Balearic Islands

The economic and cultural capital of Ibiza (Eivissa in Catalan) is teeming with places to discover. Start with a historic visit to the walled city of Dalt Vila. As you stroll along the ramparts, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the city and the Mediterranean and admire the impressive Cathedral of Santa María La Mayor, which towers over the city with its majestic ochre silhouette. After a visit to the fantastic Museum of Contemporary Art - MACE - Ibiza Travel or the Madina Yabisa Interpretation Centre, take a break at the delightful S'Escalanita bar, a charming bohemian estaminet whose terrace winds down an old stone staircase. Then spend the afternoon on the superb stretch of white sand at Talamanca beach and return to the city at the end of the day for a drink in the lively Marina district.

From the town of Ibiza, take a boat to the sublime island of Formentera, famous for its incredible turquoise waters and for having played host to many artists of the 70s, such as Bob Dylan and Pink Floyd, who made it their home. At the port of La Savina, we recommend hiring a bike or scooter, the best means of transport for exploring the island in complete freedom. Then set off to discover Formentera's superb beaches, such as Platja de Migjorn, Cala Saona and the long stretches of sand on the Trucador Peninsula.

You'll feel like you've landed in the tropics! If you're fascinated by the seabed, why not try your hand at scubadiving? Formentera's clear waters are home to an abundance of underwater life. Finish the day with a sublime sunset at the Bluebar, with a blue cocktail in hand!

The south of Ibiza is home to some incomparable treasures, of which the mysteriousAtlantis peninsula is undoubtedly one. Starting from the car park near the Es Vedrà viewpoint, arm yourself with courage to descend the difficult steep path that winds its way down the cliffs and dunes. It's well worth the effort, however, as you'll reach one of the most enchanting spots in the whole of Ibiza! The strange white rock formation of Atlantis, which plunges into the cobalt water, has given rise to all sorts of myths linked in particular to the lost City of Atlantis. It is in fact an old quarry, which explains the oblique lines traced by the rock.

Hippies turned it into a retreat and carved remarkable Hindu designs into the rocks, adding to the magic of the place. Take along your snorkelling equipment to observe the sublime iridescent fish in the crystal-clear waters of paradise. Beware, there are few shady areas around here, so avoid going on a hot day and bring your hats and sun cream. After climbing the cliffs, end the day with a splendid sunset facing the imposing island of Es Vedrà.

This is one of the most exceptional sites on Ibiza! Located in the south of the island and a World Heritage Site, the Ses Salines Natural Park encompasses the venerable salt marshes built by the Phoenicians in ancient times and the superb beaches of Es Cavallet and Ses Salines, which are among the most beautiful on the island. From Sant-Jordi de Ses Salines, it's worth taking a day to explore the surrounding area on foot or by bike (as this is a protected area, access by car is limited). You'll enjoy a wide variety of landscapes, from wooded hills and stretches of white sand alongside turquoise water, to sparkling marshes of changing colours.

The Parc Naturel de Ses Salines is also a sanctuary for more than 200 species of birds, so there's plenty to keep birdwatchers happy! In late summer, you can even spot migratory birds such as storks, herons and even pink flamingos! Finish your stroll with a well-deserved drink at the bohemian chiringuito Sa Trinxa on Ses Salines beach, where you can enjoy a drink with your feet in the warm sand facing the Mediterranean, to the sound of excellent DJs. This is the essence of Ibiza!

Ibiza may be famous for its dream beaches, but it would be a shame to miss out on the island's inland treasures. With fields of almond trees as far as the eye can see, charming sun-drenched villages and a traditional culture that's still very much alive, the authenticity of Ibiza's land contrasts with the nightlife madness of the coastal towns - it's a real breath of fresh air! In the north-west of the island, around the small, remote village of Sant-Mateu d'Aubarca, wine lovers can discover Ibiza's vineyards, which despite an arid climate produce excellent wine. Morning visits with free tastings are available from Monday to Friday at the Ibizkus winery. P

o visit the picturesque village of Sant Miquel de Balansat, perched on an imposing hill, and don't miss its superb chapel, where traditional dances are held every Thursday at 6.15pm. You can also visit Santa Agnes de Corona, surrounded by thousands of almond trees and right next to the sea for a refreshing dip in the sea, not forgetting the pretty hamlet of Sant Llorenç de Balàfia with its excellent restaurants. Touring the Ibizan countryside is a chance to experience the island in a different way and enjoy an unsuspected peace and quiet.

Start the day at the fantastic Hippie Market in Sant-Carles de Peralta, with its colourful fabrics and craft stalls on the grounds of the legendary Las Dalias club, where you can stock up on bohemian accessories and local produce. The atmosphere is joyous and lively, with live music concerts and strolling shows. There are plenty of food stalls too. After this lively atmosphere, head off for calmer horizons to the sublime beaches around Sant-Carles, such as the delightful Pou de LLéo cove and its pretty fishermen's huts, or the unmissableAigue Blanques beach and its superb cliffs overlooking crystal-clear water. Partly nudist, with incredibly fine white sand, Aigue Blanques is a haven of peace! Don't miss the very friendly Chiringuito, with its colourful tables where you can drink a mojito under the straw huts and listen to the sound of the waves.

Even when Ibiza's summer season is in full swing, some of the coves in the north of the island are virtually deserted. Between sublime cliffs of wild beauty and pebbled beaches where all you can hear is the sound of the water and the cicadas, this is a southern paradise in its purest form. Most of these remote areas are not served by public transport, so you have to get there by car and drive along winding roads that are not always very well maintained - it's an adventure! Among these little jewels of beauty is Cala d'Auberca, a majestic bay to the north of Sant Mateu where the pine-covered cliffs plunge sheer into the Mediterranean. In terms of secluded rocky coves, Port de Ses Caletes, frequented mainly by fishermen, and Es Portitxol are also wonderful places for solitude and contemplation. And let's not forget the delightful sandy beach of Calo Moltons and the heavenly Cala Xuclar, whose clear waters are perfect for snorkelling. To end this day of exploration on a festive note, head to Benirras beach to enjoy a sumptuous sunset to the sound of drums. Many drummers gather here to celebrate the end of the day. A magical moment to round off your stay in Ibiza in style.