Ibiza holidays

Full of Mediterranean flavour, ensalada payesa is ideal for a starter or light lunch. This tasty Ibizan salad makes use of fresh ingredients, including bell pepper, tomato, onion, eggs, and olive oil. You’ll find ensalada payesa at beachside tavernas all over Ibiza – try it alongside a glass of Tinto de Verrano, an island cocktail made with lemonade and red wine. Paella is a staple in every town and village in Spain, but each region has its own take on this classic dish. In Ibiza, expect to find your paella skillet piled high with freshly caught seafood, including turbot, grouper, prawns and mussels. For a summery drink, order a jug of Sangria – in Ibiza, this holiday favourite is made with cava, for a refreshing twist. For dessert, flao is a must-try on your Ibiza holiday. Once made only for Easter, this dense cheesecake made with sheep’s milk is now popular year-round and can be bought in bakeries across the island. Locals often pair flao with Frigola, a thyme-infused brandy, or Hierbas, a herby liqueur first produced on the island over 200 years ago.

Ibiza’s most popular beach, Playa d’en Bossa is a long stretch of soft sand, just 10 minutes from Ibiza Town. While not a place to get away from it all, (the music is non-stop) this is where you go to have fun and catch the Ibiza vibe at its liveliest. Partygoers will be in their element, with world-famous superclubs Ushuaia and Hi Ibiza yards from the sand. For a total change of pace, spend an afternoon at Cala Pada, an idyllic cove just north of Santa Eulària. Free from music and water sports, Cala Pada is a laid-back affair, where relaxation is the name of the game. Swim and snorkel in stunning azure waters, jump off the jetty and grab an icy drink from the shack behind the beach. No visit to Ibiza would be complete without a visit to Benirras, the famous hippy beach on the north coast. The beach is made up of pebbles and sand, but you’ll find sun beds and parasols for hire – unwind in comfort as you look out over the aquamarine ocean. Arrive on Sunday, and you’ll get to hear a drumming circle play as the sun sets on the White Isle.

Sirenis Aquagames, San Antonio: Families with kids of all ages will have a blast at Sirenis Aquagames water park in San Antonio. This newly-built park features thrilling Kamikaze and mat racers rides, a pair of twisty tubes and side-by-side toboggan racers – race your family to the finish line! Mini swimmers are sure to have a whale of a time at the Caribbean zone, where they’ll discover exciting slides and tipping pirate barrels

Hippy Market, Es Cana: For a unique family shopping experience, spend an afternoon at Punta Arabi Market in Es Cana. You’ll discover a colourful bohemian bazaar, full of hippy trinkets and handicrafts. Browse stalls filled with dream catchers, painted beads, bongo drums – and much more. There’s even a children’s area where little ones can make their own souvenirs.

Pony trekking, Lloc Can Batista: If you’re seeking a bit of gentle adventure, a pony trekking ride is just the ticket. At Ibiza Horse Valley, the horses and ponies are well cared for and you can choose half-day or full-day excursions. Trek through mountains to the beach on a journey that takes in some of Ibiza’s most beautiful high-up views. Beginners are welcome.

Parasailing, San Antonio: When it comes to getting the heart racing, nothing matches the thrill of parasailing. San Antonio on the west coast offers the most choice, with many tour operators offering rides at sunset for that extra ‘wow’ factor. Choose to fly solo, or drag a partner along for a thrilling tandem adventure as you soar to heights of 400m above sea level.

Jet ski & dolphin tour, Santa Eulalia: If you’ve got dolphin spotting and jet ski riding on your bucket list, it’s time to cross them both off! Follow an experienced guide from your starting point in Santa Eulalia, as you zip across the waves on this once-in-a-lifetime tour. Witness dolphins in their natural habitat, before stopping off for a snorkel at a hidden bay – a magical holiday experience.

Buggy tour, Playa d’en Bossa: Away from the ocean, there’s a rugged interior waiting to be explored. Strap yourself in and rev up for an offroad buggy tour crossing verdant valleys and rocky mountain terrain. Ride through traditional Ibizan villages and stop at an unspoiled beach for a swim in crystal-clear waters. Don’t forget to bring two things: your driver’s license, and a sense of adventure!