Five Amazing Autumn Hikes in Ibiza
Ibiza may be best known for its nightlife and beaches, but autumn reveals a quieter, more scenic side of the island perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
- Es Portixol – the jewel-like cove
- Distance: 4 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Hidden cove, turquoise waters, rugged cliffs
Starting from the small village of Sant Mateu, this trail leads to Es Portixol, a secluded cove nestled among steep cliffs. The path is fairly rocky, so sturdy shoes are essential. Autumn’s cooler temperatures make the hike more enjoyable as you descend through pine-scented woods and along cliff edges. Once you reach Es Portixol, you’re rewarded with a quiet, pebble-strewn beach and crystal-clear waters still warm from the summer sun.
- Sa Talaia – the island’s highest point
- Distance: 2.5 km (one way)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Panoramic island views, sunset watching
For a short but challenging trek, Sa Talaia, Ibiza’s highest peak at 475 meters, offers a perfect autumn hike. Starting from Sant Josep de sa Talaia, this trail takes you through Mediterranean scrubland and pine forests. The ascent rewards you with sweeping views over Ibiza and the neighbouring island of Formentera. Autumn sunsets from Sa Talaia are particularly spectacular, casting a golden glow over the island.
- Cala d’Albarca – the clifftop drama
- Distance: 7 km (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, arch bridge, remote feel
For those seeking a slightly more adventurous trek, Cala d’Albarca’s cliff walk is a thrilling experience. The route starts in Santa Agnes and leads to a natural stone arch bridge over the sea. This path takes you along high cliffs with views that are both stunning and humbling. The trail is somewhat challenging, with sections requiring careful footing, but autumn's cooler weather makes it more manageable. The trail eventually winds down to Cala d’Albarca, a rocky cove that feels worlds away from the busier beaches.
- Es Vedrà and Cala d’Hort – the mystical backdrop
- Distance: 8 km (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Es Vedrà rock island views, scenic coastline
This loop trail starts at Cala d’Hort beach and offers one of the best views of the mystical rock island, Es Vedrà. Many legends surround Es Vedrà, said to be a source of magnetic energy and inspiration. The path follows the coastline, providing dramatic sea views and sweeping panoramas of Es Vedrà, particularly beautiful in autumn's softer light. The hike is manageable but involves some rocky patches and a very physical return ascent.
- Puig de Missa – the historical church
Distance: 3 km (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Historical sites, river views, town charm
For a mix of history and nature, the Puig de Missa trail in Santa Eulària is a delightful choice. The route takes you to a hilltop church dating back to the 16th century, with views over the town and river. In autumn, the Mediterranean foliage along the river path takes on a golden hue, and the cooler weather makes the short climb to the church more comfortable. This trail offers a nice balance of sightseeing and exercise, perfect for an afternoon hike.
