1.2 Beyond Clubland: Ibiza By Day

Ibiza is an island that invites exploration. The UNESCO World Heritage Site status of parts of Ibiza has contributed to a conservation policy that has protected the island from over-development, so that there are plenty of natural attractions to discover, and activities to partake of during the day - beyond the beaches and the clubs. Here are a few recommendations.

The Salt Flats: ''Las Salinas'' are at the southern tip of the island, and are a photo opportunity waiting to happen, particularly at sunset. The salt fields are lakes that dry up in the summer and leave a sparkling, crystalline layer of salt, which has been harvested by humans for over 2000 years.

The south of the island has dramatic mountainous hills that afford great views. The village of San Jose in these hills is a good target to aim for in when touring in your hire car, with a coastal route that passes some 80km of beaches and coves.

As well as hosting some of the islands largest and most famous clubs in the new part of town, Ibiza Town has a rich history that has thankfully been well preserved. Dalt Vila, the Old Town area of Ibiza, has medieval fortifications and winding cobbled streets ? be advised that this terrain is not kind on those wearing high heels!

The cathedral of Santa Maria is perched at the top of Dalt Vila, surrounded by battlements that present yet another opportunity for killer holiday snaps. This vantage point is also a good place to get your bearings, as you get a good overview of the rest of Ibiza town.

A good standby excursion, if you''ve perhaps overdosed on the sun as little, is to take a guided tour of the caves of Can Marca. This complex was once used by smugglers, and due to its age is packed with stalactites and stalagmites. A Music and Light show in this natural setting is a nice contract to the extravagant pyrotechnics featured in the more modern entertainment that has made the island famous, and is a good diversion for children.

The clear waters around Ibiza are perfect for diving, and there are a good selection of established diving schools on the island to choose from. Recent attractions include swimming round the sunken wreck of the Don Pedro, a cargo ship that sunk, close to Ibiza, in 2007.

There are also a range of options for hiring a car to enable you to properly explore Ibiza, and this is easier than ever thanks to the internet. A simple search on car hire Ibiza airport shows up local outfits like Ritmo Cars who hire cars direct from the airport, so that you need waste none of your precious holiday time when you step off of the plane.

By: Thomasena Ghantt

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Thomasena Ghantt loves the Balearic islands and has been going to Ibiza for years. Ritmocars.co.uk provide the service of car hire Ibiza airport.