Achieving 10,000 steps daily in your winter routine is a very healthy accomplishment, but it becomes even more significant when summer arrives, you leave your urban circuit aside, and start seeking Ibiza hiking trails. Because in this case, in addition to steps, you can add stunning landscapes, Mediterranean scents, dips before, during or at the end of the route; and a fabulous sense of well-being. You know what you need to do: pack your favourite sports outfit in your suitcase and get going. Are you ready?
Ibiza offers a wide network of well-maintained and signposted hiking trails for various levels of difficulty. Some trails follow the coast, transforming into wonderful viewpoints, while others delve into the Ibizan countryside and pine-covered mountains, uncovering hidden valleys, centuries-old houses, churches, wells, and fountains. Depending on your fitness level, the tourism websites of Ibiza Travel and various local councils allow you to choose from circular walks of varying difficulty and duration. You’ll have no shortage of options!
Hiking Routes and Wild Ibiza Landscapes
The White Island still preserves extensive, largely unspoilt natural areas that are ideal for hiking, such as Ses Salines d’Eivissa i Formentera Natural Park, Es Amunts, Es Broll de Buscastell and the Es Vedrà, Es Vedranell i els Illots de Ponent Nature Reserves, among others.
In these areas, you can still observe Ibiza’s endemic species like the Ibiza wall lizard (Podarcis pityusensis) and protected species such as the Balearic shearwater (Puffinus mauretanicus), along with other fauna and flora found on the island: juniper, pine, juniper berry, dwarf fan palm, almond, carob, Eleonora’s falcon, peregrine falcon, shag, hoopoe, flamingo, rabbit… All set in a diverse and contrasting environment that includes dune systems, steep cliffs, mountain ranges, and fertile red soils used for cultivation.
Must-see natural trails in Ibiza for hiking
The following circular itineraries will show you different faces of the island, from the more remote and less altered north of Ibiza to those that uncover some of its most photographed enclaves.
Hiking Route through the Natural Park of Ses Salines
This itinerary is very accessible for all levels, as there is hardly any change of slope. Starting from the southern end of Ses Salines beach, where the old warehouse now houses the exhibition centre La Nave Salinas, the route will lead you to the Torre de Ses Portes, Es Cavallet beach, and the salt ponds where flamingos and other migratory birds nest, before venturing into a forest of pines and junipers and finally returning once again to Ses Salines beach.
Starting and ending point: La Nave Salinas.
Distance: 8 km.
Duration: 2 h.
Difficulty: easy
Advice: Visit the Sant Francesc Interpretation Centre for fascinating information about the natural park.
Wikiloc
Natural routes along the west coast of Ibiza: from Cala Bassa to the beaches of Comte
This easy trail links two of the most beautiful and well-known beaches on the island through a route that mostly follows the coastline, offering exceptional views over the Bay of Sant Antoni, Cape Nonó, and the islets of Conillera and s’illa des Bosc. With a length of about 3 km in each direction, it is advisable to undertake it early in the morning during the summer, with the option to return, for instance, at the end of the afternoon.
Starting and ending point: Cala Bassa.
Distance: 3 km each way.
Duration: about 50 minutes each way (approximately 2 hours in total).
Difficulty: easy.
Advice: It is recommended to bring water, sunscreen, and a cap all year round.
Wikiloc
Climb to the Summit of Ibiza: The Sa Talaia Route
The best days for this journey to the island’s highest peak (475 m) are the clear ones, when there’s no mist and the air is free from humidity, following a path that offers a continuous yet gentle ascent. Starting from the village of Sant Josep, and taking a path near the Can Jeroni cultural centre, the route ascends while revealing a charming rural landscape with scattered Ibizan houses, cultivated fields, and pine forests. Upon reaching the summit, you will see Sant Antoni Bay and Cap Nonó to the north, and Porroig Bay, Cala Jondal, and Formentera to the south. And if you climb a small hill near the esplanade, you’ll see Cala Bassa, the beaches of Comte, and the islets of the Illots de Ponent nature reserve.
Starting and ending point: Sant Josep Church
Distance: 2.40 km (one way).
Duration: 1.5 h (one way).
Difficulty: medium.
Advice: In summer, go up at dusk to watch the sunset.
Wikiloc
Benirràs to Port de Sant Miquel: a journey through the natural wonders of northern Ibiza
The circular route PR-EI-105 is suitable for hikers accustomed to mountain trails, as it features a 315-metre elevation change. The effort is well worth it for the panoramic views of the rugged coastline, and it’s further rewarded with the opportunity to swim at both the beginning and end of the route. Port de Sant Miquel Beach marks the beginning of this beautiful circular route, which includes stops at the karst cave of Can Marça, where limestone formations and tales of smugglers and pirates await, and Cala Benirràs, before venturing through forested mountain areas to return to Port de Sant Miquel.
Starting and ending point: Port de Sant Miquel
Distance: 13 km.
Duration: 4 h.
Difficulty: medium-high.
Advice: Bring water and set aside time to relax at Benirràs Cove.
Wikiloc
Tips and suggestions for hiking in Ibiza
Exploring Ibiza on foot is a wonderful way to discover another side of the island, hidden among pine forests, cliffs, coves and quiet country paths. To make the most of the experience, plan your walk carefully and keep these simple tips in mind before setting off.
Choose a route that suits your level
Before you start, check the distance, elevation gain, duration and type of terrain. Ibiza offers everything from gentle coastal walks to longer, more demanding mountain routes, so there are options for different fitness levels. If you are not used to hiking, start with one of the easier trails.
Avoid the hottest part of the day
During the summer months, it is best to walk early in the morning or later in the afternoon. As well as enjoying more comfortable temperatures, you will also see the Ibizan landscape in beautiful light. On routes with little shade, avoiding the middle of the day is particularly advisable.
Take water and sun protection
Make sure you carry enough water, especially in summer and on longer routes. Pack sunscreen, a cap or hat, and some food if you are going to be walking for several hours.
Wear suitable footwear
Although some routes are easy, many paths cross rocky ground, forest tracks or uneven terrain. Hiking shoes or supportive trainers will help you walk more comfortably and safely.
Check the route before setting off
Download the route or check the map before you start, particularly if you are heading into less populated areas. It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast and bear in mind that mobile phone coverage can be patchy in some parts of the island.
Respect the natural surroundings
Many of these routes pass through areas of great natural value. Stick to existing paths, follow signs, take your rubbish with you and avoid disturbing wildlife. And if your route finishes by the sea, there is nothing better than setting aside a little time for a refreshing swim and a well-earned rest.
The best hotel for your hiking holidays in Ibiza
Its excellent location in Cala de Bou, in the bay of Sant Antoni, makes Amàre Beach Hotel Ibiza a fabulous four-star hotel recommended for adults who love hiking. You’ll have plenty of routes at your fingertips to explore the nature of Ibiza and, best of all, magnificent facilities where you can relax and recharge on your return, such as its two pools, the Spa by Germaine Capuccini, and its fabulous rooftop with sunset views. The icing on the cake of all walks, don’t you think?
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