Ibiza is known throughout the world as Spain’s uttermost clubbing hub, yet the isle has so much more to offer than just endless parties and flowing cocktails. The blissful concoction of stunning scenery, temperate climate and hospitable locals is what makes Ibiza a wonderful holiday destination for anyone searching for a little slice of heaven close to home. But step just one foot on this island and you’ll soon realize that Ibiza’s popularity is not exactly a recent phenomenon. The unmistakable mix of cultures here point to its rather tumultuous and sometimes overcrowded past. Throughout its rather long existence, Ibiza has been the holiday-spot of choice of the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Moors and the Arabs.

Want to go home with more than just a suntan? Then book your holiday rental apartment or villa in Ibiza and delve right into the cultural side of this most splendid Mediterranean paradise.

Historic Ibiza
We still find it mind-boggling that a great majority of tourists, who visit Ibiza for weeks at a time, never venture into the Old Town. The 5th century walled town is an amazing maze of cobblestone alleyways, open air markets and some of the most gorgeous shops on the whole isle. Comprising of three separate quarters: Dalt Villa, with its imposing castle and iconic cathedral; Sa Penya, the ancient gypsy part of town and La Marina, the fashionable harbour side district home to trendy bars, restaurants and unique shops and stalls; Old Town Ibiza is a brilliant place to spend a whole day exploring. Head here first thing in the morning, while all the party revellers will still be fast asleep, and have this most sublime and historic part of the island all to yourselves. From Phoenician archaeological ruins to Medieval towers and Roman remains, the old city centre feels like a journey through the island’s multi-hued past. For an unforgettable experience, book your Ibiza vacation to coincide one of the many cultural festivals in town. Featuring an eclectic mix of pagan and religious celebrations, Ibiza’s fiestas are renowned for being colourful, enlightening and not a little eccentric.

Sacred Ibiza
Ibiza may be revered nowadays for its perfect mix of sun, sand, and soirees, but some may be surprised to learn that the isle has actually been considered a spiritual hub for over three millennia. During the time of Phoenician occupation, around 3000 years ago, Ibiza was believed to be the birthplace of the Tanit, goddess of sex, passion, lust and fertility. She was venerated on this isle long before plane loads of your British party-goers made this the holiday destination of choice in the 1980s. Perhaps they were drawn here through divine intervention? There are still plenty of locals who are convinced this is the reason Ibiza has become the pleasure-seeking capital of Europe…it’s all Tanit’s fault!

Head to Sa Cova des Culleram and pay homage to Tanit like Ibizans did thousands of years ago. You may not gain access to the cave shrine discovered at the beginning of the 20th century, but you will enjoy superlative coastal views from the viewing platform just above it. The cave was found to be full of terracotta figurines, believed to be offerings to Tanit from local worshippers.

In Cala d’Hort beach is where you’ll find the isle’s magnetic ‘rock’, considered one of the most magnetic spots on earth. Challenge the theory and head there with a compass to see if the legend is actually true. Pack your sunscreen while you’re at it and spend a whole day in this most divine beach.