Located in the southwest of Ibiza, less than 2 kilometres from the coast, we find one of the most touristy spots with the most flora and fauna on the island. We are talking about the island of Es Vedrá, a rock almost 400 metres high that enchants anyone who decides to admire it.
In 2002, Es Vedra was designated as a nature reserve, which makes it a protected area of exceptional beauty. Therefore, due to its status as a reserve, visits are prohibited in order to preserve its fragile ecosystem and protect its unique biodiversity.
However, the surrounding area offers a wide variety of plans so that you can enjoy its surroundings without damaging this Ibizan space.
Why Es Vedra is a must-see in Ibiza
As we have already mentioned, it is forbidden to go to the island as such, but its surroundings offer a wide variety of activities and magical places to enjoy the island.
It is an idyllic setting for watching the sunset, snorkelling and discovering all the wildlife in the area.
The area of Es Vedrá hides numerous coves with crystal clear waters, where you can enjoy the Mediterranean climate while sunbathing and contemplating the landscape.
Fauna, flora, crystal-clear waters, postcard photographs… All this and much more are the reasons why this small island is an obligatory stop for anyone who decides to visit Ibiza.
The legend and mystery of Es Vedrá
Legend has it that Es Vedra is actually the summit of the legendary Atlantis, the lost city that has fascinated generations with its mysterious disappearance. Yes, yes, as you read it. Atlantis itself.
Just near Es Vedrá is the sandstone quarry of Sa Pedrera, known among the locals as Atlantis. During the 1960s, when Ibiza became a refuge for the hippie counterculture, this place was christened Atlantis by the hippies themselves, inhabiting the nearby natural caves.
It is said to have been the home of the nymphs and sirens who tried to seduce Odysseus in his epic adventures narrated by Homer in The Odyssey. It is also said that the goddess Tanit, whose presence is felt throughout the island, was born in this sacred place.
Beyond this legend, this island also hides many mysteries. Some have claimed to have seen phenomena that they cannot explain. They have even seen UFOs! Many fishermen report seeing giant creatures under their boats, or strange lights while working at night.
Es Vedra is a magical place, regardless of whether these claims and legends are just that, only legends. It is a place you must visit because you will fall in love with its magic.
How to get to Es Vedrá from Ibiza
To get to Es Vedra from Ibiza, you can take a boat from the port of San Antonio or hire a boat tour that will take you across the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean to the limits you can go and see. The crossing is usually short and relaxing, offering spectacular views of the Ibiza coastline before arriving at your destination.
What to see and do in Es Vedrá
- Beach day at Cala d’Hort: Cala d’Hort is a small beach near Es Vedra, with full services such as sunbeds, restaurants and disabled access. It is advisable to arrive early in high season due to high demand. It also has one of the most recommended viewpoints to see the rock of Es Vedrá. To do so, you will have to cross the PMV-803 road and you will arrive. You can’t get lost!
- Cruise excursion to Es Vedrá: Another option to enjoy the island is to hire a boat with an agency. This 4-hour excursion departs from the port of San Antonio and offers views of several bays before circling the island of Es Vedra. It is ideal for families and has a local guide who provides information on points of interest.
- Exploration of the Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta: Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this Phoenician site from the 8th century BC shows the urban organisation of the Phoenicians and has bread ovens.
- Visit to Torre des Savinar: Known as Torre del Pirata, this watchtower on a cliff offers impressive views of Es Vedrá and Es Vedranell. It is accessible from San José and can be reached after a short walk.
- Ojo de Es Vedrá route: This hiking route, although not too long, has steep and slippery stretches. It offers spectacular views of Es Vedra from the Cala Llentrisca viewpoint, but is not recommended for those with vertigo.
Flora and fauna of Es Vedra
Despite its small size, Es Vedra is home to a surprising diversity of flora, with a total of 166 identified plant species. These include twelve species endemic to the region and one exclusive to the islet, known as Santolina vedranensis.
The distinctive fauna of Es Vedra is characterised by its diversity, especially the wide variety of birds, lizards and various invertebrates. This islet is recognised as an important breeding sanctuary for seabirds and birds of prey.
Some boat trips will also give you the chance to see dolphins in the wild and, if you’re lucky, the occasional sea turtle. But if you love snorkelling, it is a paradise to see octopus, sea urchins, starfish and a wide variety of fish.
Is the island of Es Vedra one of the points on your itinerary? Hopefully this article has made you change some plans and enjoy other corners of Ibiza!
