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Ibiza: 10 Hidden Gems To Discover By Bike

The best way to discover the real Ibiza is by mountain bike, so we've discovered the best spots to check out

Think Ibiza, think the obligatory all-nighters, those oft-cited Balaeric beats, glow-sticks and sun-drenched hangovers.

But dismissing Ibiza as a party island means missing out on all the natural beauty and fascinating tradition the place has to offer.

Not your idea of a good time? Don't write Ibiza off! (REX)
Not your idea of a good time? Don't write Ibiza off! (REX)

From secluded coves to popular local restaurants and quaint villages, there is plenty more to uncover beyond the beachside party culture. And according to research by American Express, over half of Brits are after the authentic experience of 'living like a local' on holiday.

In Ibiza, there's no better way to do this than by bicycle.

Mountain biking is the ultimate way to see the most beautiful and unique places around Ibiza, so we've rounded up some of the best hidden gems you need to discover on your trip to the Med paradise.

Cala Benirrás

A beautiful sunny beach by day with nighttime drummers at sunset (REX)
A beautiful sunny beach by day with nighttime drummers at sunset (REX)

The beach here is set in a small bay surrounded by pine-clad hills. This sheltered spot is a gathering point for those on boats to enjoy the romantic sundown, often accompanied by the drummers who descend to the beach to 'drum down the sunset'.

Sabores Naturales
This vegetarian restaurant is an ideal place to sit in a beautiful walled garden and enjoy fresh fruit juices and shakes, fantastic organic bread and arguably the best homemade pizza on the island. Set in the middle of San Juan, it’s a lovely place to escape and refuel, ready for the bike ride ahead.

Santa Gertrudis
This village is one of the most charming rural centres in the island, with handicrafts shops, antique shops, and avant-garde cuisine restaurants. Hop off the bike and find yourself some authentic souvenirs at the auction which is held twice a month in English and Spanish at Casi Todo.

Cala San Vicente

The beach at Cala San Vicente (REX)
The beach at Cala San Vicente (REX)


This stunning cove in the north-east of the island is home to a great bar and restaurant called Hidden. While it may be ‘hidden’ to tourists, it’s well-known amongst locals and those in the know. Stay late into the night to enjoy some great tunes in the garden.

Santa Agnes
Another charming village that is easily accessible on bike. You will feel a mile away from the Balearic revellers just a few miles south, as only a few cafés and a quaint church can be found in this village. One café in particular, C'an Cosmi, specialises in the Spanish Omelette and if you want to eat in a traditional place and mingle with locals off the beaten track, then this is the place to go.

Cala Xuclar
Set in a small cove, here is one of the last get-away-from-it-all beaches on the island. A very small beach, the clearest of water, fishermen's huts and food from a tiny kiosk make this beach the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the south of the island.

Es Broll
Just past Santa Gertrudis towards Santa Agnes is this stunning freshwater spring. But it’s not just the spring that is worth visiting, water passing through the area has ensured that the scenery is vibrant and green, with beautiful olive groves at every turn. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs after some time in the saddle.

Cala Salada
If you are a fan of sunsets and want to avoid the masses, then Cala Salada is the perfect place to get your fix. You can watch the sun go down behind the islets of Sa Conillera and Bosc from the sandy beach or even from the waters of the nearby private cove.

Cami Vell De San Rafel (one-way)

Cycling around Ibiza allows you to get off the beaten path (REX)
Cycling around Ibiza allows you to get off the beaten path (REX)


This is a great bike ride recommended for beginners and families with older children. It starts from San Antonio and follows the old roads between San Antonio and San Rafel, passing through beautiful fruit groves and vegetable patches. This is a great 12k route, but be sure to take a picnic to stop and eat at one of the many picture-perfect points along the way.

Es puig de Missa
These beautiful white-walled buildings are found on a hill on the route between Santa Eulalia and Santa Gertrudis. Amongst them, there is the local church which was originally built by locals to protect them from pirate attacks. Today, the cemetery affords visitors breath-taking views over the island.

Amex Insider Alex Zane is taking a sneak peek behind the scenes of some of Europe’s most popular destinations, uncovering hidden gems and telling you a few things you might not already know. Visit youtube.com/AmericanExpressUK to watch Alex get more insider information from other exciting destinations.