AS I relax on a lounge in a beach-front bar, sipping on a half-price cocktail and watching the sun set on another cloudless (and crowdless) day, it’s easy to forget that Ibiza is better known for its party scene than its appeal as the perfect location for a relaxing beach-side holiday.
Everyone knows that Ibiza is the world’s party mecca, a sun drenched island illuminated by the neon lights of the world’s biggest and best clubs. But while it has rightfully earned its title as the world’s clubbing capital, those willing to write Ibiza off as little more than a partying hotspot risk missing out on one of Spain’s hidden gems.
Beyond the clubs
In fact, with the island’s high season all wrapped-up (and the party crowds nursing their hangovers back home), Ibiza’s iconic clubs have closed their doors until the sun returns later this year. Meaning all that’s left are long sunny days, white sandy beaches, crystal blue Mediterranean waters and an island desperate for tourists. Now truly is the time of year when you can enjoy Ibiza all to yourself.
And as London’s winter chills our bones, there is no better time to catch some last gasp sunshine than on an island who’s true beauty can only be found when the neon lights are turned off. And for the traveller that knows where to look, too-good-to-be-true deals abound. Packages including return flights, seven nights accommodation and an all inclusive buffet are available for as little as 300 pounds per person.
The island life
Meanwhile on the island, there is plenty to do for holidaymakers interested in more than a hangover on the beach. San Antonio, one of Ibiza’s largest ports and most popular holiday destinations is still enjoying warm days and is buzzing with companies offering watersports and day cruises. And with the crowds long since dwindled, a last minute holiday to Ibiza at this time of year means you’re first in line for everything from adventure sports to restaurants.
For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, you can hire a car (or a quad bike) from 50 Euro a day, hit the road and find your own piece of Ibizan paradise known only to locals. Places such as Cala Salada on the island’s western coast are largely untouched by tourists and are the best way to combine island life with a taste of Spanish culture.
And with everything on this island only an hour’s drive away, (maybe an hour and a half via the island’s well connected bus service), trips to Ibiza Town and the island’s famed hippy market in Las Dalias – a Saturday tradition on the island – are easily accessible.
Some winter sun
And of course, with temperatures hovering a good 10 degrees higher at this Mediterranean hotspot than in London this time of year, there’s always the option of just finding yourself a spot anywhere on Ibiza’s spectacular coastline, rolling out the beach towel and just lazing the days away. And afterwards, why not join me in the beach-front bar for a cheap cocktail? I’ll be the guy on the lounge, enjoying the view all to myself. There’s truly never been a better time to travel to Ibiza. Your shout!