We will explore the northern part of the island through the main towns and villages of the municipality of Sant Joan de Labritja, the least populated area of the island with barely 5,600 inhabitants. Peace and tranquility are more than guaranteed here, with tiny villages hidden between the countryside and the forest away from the bustle of mainstream tourism. For those seeking a peaceful atmosphere will definitely adore this municipality. A great place to discover the tradition of the island, which is still promoted in municipalities like this one.
Sant Joan de Labritja
With this name, it is normal that the most awaited date of this charming village is the summer solstice, the day in honor of the patron saint San Juan (St. John). Every year, many people from all around the island come here to celebrate its iconic festivities with music and party. And when midnight approaches, they light up several bonfires and smaller fires so that everyone can jump over them, a way of making their wishes come true.
Sant Vicent de Sa Cala
Sant Vicent is one of the smallest villages on the island, and it hides incredible places such as Cova des Culleram. This cave is hidden among the mountains of this village and keeps part of the ancient history of the island, as in this cave was found the legendary bust of the goddess Tanit, the most prominent emblem of the Punic past of the island. Its historical importance is evident but it is also worth mentioning the beauty of this enclave surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, making it an incredibly interesting site in the island well worth visiting. Enjoy a pleasant walk through the woods in the area and discover, as happened to the archaeologists in the past, the treasures of bizan history that this important place hides.
Sant Llorenç de Balàfia
In the heart of the island is where the charming village of Sant Llorenç is located, a jewel of Ibizan architecture tucked in between the greenery of the area. Here you will find the peace and tranquility typical of the inland but is also home to one of the most amazing traditional settlements on the island: the village of Balàfia. A set of several houses that are located a few meters from the center of the village. This interesting landscape make it a great way to enjoy the uniqueness of Ibizan architecture, learning how these houses were organized. And among all this, the two defense towers that rise in the center of the village that once served to protecting themselves from possible pirate attacks.
Sant Miquel de Balansat
Sant Miquel is one of those villages that are set around a hill that formerly served as a perfect vantage point to watch possible incursions into the island. And now, this place, named Puig de Missa (the same as in Santa Eulàlia), is an ideal place from which to contemplate the views over the beautiful countryside that surrounds Sant Miquel. Here you’ll also find its fortified church, one of the oldest ones in Ibiza, dating back to the fourteenth century, and which was built over the ruins of an ancient Arab farmhouse. Next to this historic site is the iconic statue of Marià Villangómez, laureate poet of the island who was inspired by the landscape of this charming village to write some of his beautiful poems.
