San Miguel: Discovering Ibiza's Tranquil Side

When you hear the name "Ibiza," your mind might jump to pulsating dance music, neon lights, and all-night parties. But tucked away on the northern coast of the island is a different kind of paradise, a place where the rhythm is set not by a DJ, but by the gentle lapping of the waves. Welcome to Puerto de San Miguel, a serene and stunning resort that offers a perfect escape from the crowds.

Originally a simple fishing village, San Miguel has grown into a cherished family destination. Unlike the more famous resorts, it has retained a quiet, unspoiled charm, making it a perfect spot for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

I had the pleasure of visiting in July 2014, taking a scenic boat trip along the coast from Portinatx to see San Miguel's hidden coves and crystalline waters. The journey itself was a treat, revealing a coastline of rugged cliffs and lush green hills.

Approaching San Miguel by sea, the first thing that strikes you is the beautiful bay, a perfect horseshoe shape cradled by verdant hillsides. The water is a magnificent mosaic of blues and turquoise, so clear you can see the seabed below. Small boats dot the bay, their white sails contrasting with the deep blue of the Mediterranean.

Beyond the main beach, the coastline reveals a more rustic, wild beauty. Exploring the hidden coves, you can find traditional fishermen's huts carved into the rocks, a testament to the village's humble origins. The blend of untamed nature and modern comfort is a part of San Miguel's unique appeal.

While I was there, I also visited the nearby Cova de Can Marçà, a spectacular network of ancient caves, adding a sense of history and adventure to the trip.

These photos, taken during my visit, capture the essence of San Miguel: the sun-drenched beaches, the shimmering turquoise sea, and the lush, green backdrop of pine-covered hills. It's a place that proves Ibiza has a soft, serene side, one that's just waiting to be explored by those who want to trade the club scene for a different kind of bliss. San Miguel is a reminder that the island's true magic lies in its stunning, natural beauty.

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Chasing the Light: A Coastal Hike to Far del Moscarter, Ibiza

In the summer of 2014, amidst the sun-drenched shores of Portinatx, Ibiza, I decided to trade poolside lounging for a coastal adventure. My mission? To hike to the iconic lighthouse, Far del Moscarter, a journey of approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from my hotel, Club Vista Bahia.

Let's be honest, the hotel wasn't exactly a highlight of the trip. While the sunsets were undeniably spectacular, painting the sky with fiery hues, the rest left much to be desired. Unmotivated staff, uninspired food, and a less-than-pristine environment contributed to a somewhat lackluster experience. (And, I've since heard it's closed its doors – hardly surprising!) But this isn't a hotel review; it's a tale of a rewarding walk.

Setting out along the rugged coastline, the heat was a tangible presence, but the allure of the sea breeze and the promise of panoramic views kept me going. A slight detour through a shady woodland area added an unexpected element of adventure, and after a brief navigational challenge, the stark white tower of Far del Moscarter finally came into view.

And what a view it was! Perched dramatically on the edge of the coastline, the lighthouse offered breathtaking vistas of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. It's easy to see why this spot is so beloved.

Far del Moscarter, a beacon of light since 1977, stands tall as the highest lighthouse in the Balearic Islands, with a focal plane of 52 meters. Construction of this impressive structure began in 1975, and its design is refreshingly minimalist. Unlike many traditional lighthouses, Far del Moscarter was built as a fully automated tower, lacking any residential quarters. Its sleek concrete form, devoid of unnecessary embellishments, speaks to its functional purpose.

The journey to the lighthouse, captured with my trusty Polaroid is2132 bridge camera on July 9th, 2014, was a reminder of the simple joys of exploration. Sometimes, the best experiences are found when you step away from the predictable and venture into the unknown. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Ibiza's Silent Sentinels: The Pirate Towers and a History of Invasion

Ibiza, the jewel of the Mediterranean, evokes images of sun-drenched beaches and vibrant nightlife. But beneath the modern allure lies a rich and turbulent past, etched into the very landscape itself. Long before the era of dance clubs and celebrity DJs, Ibiza's strategic location made it a coveted prize, a crossroads for trade and, unfortunately, a target for invaders and pirates.

The island's position, nestled between Europe and Africa, meant it was a natural stopping point for seafaring travellers. This, however, came at a cost. The fertile soils, abundant salt reserves (a highly prized commodity), and the island's harvests attracted the attention of those seeking to plunder. The dispersed population, spread across the island, made it difficult to defend, leaving them vulnerable to raids. Many captured islanders were tragically sold into slavery, a dark chapter in Ibiza's history.

In response to this constant threat, the Ibizan people began to develop a system of coastal lookouts. From high vantage points, they could monitor the horizon for approaching ships, offering a vital early warning. Over time, these simple lookouts evolved into the formidable pirate towers, or "torres de defensa," that still dot the island's coastline today.

The 16th century marked a turning point, with the construction of fortified towers around the main population centers: Ibiza Town, San Antonio, and Santa Eulalia. By the 18th century, approximately 15 of these towers stood guard, including the iconic tower at Portinatx. These structures were more than just watchtowers; they were fortified shelters, stocked with muskets, shot, gunpowder, and small cannons.

Their design reflected the constant threat of attack. The entrances were typically situated about 10 feet above ground level, accessible only by rope ladders, which could be quickly retracted in times of danger. This high access point also allowed defenders to pour boiling water or oil onto attackers attempting to scale the walls, a brutal but effective deterrent. Some towers boasted walls up to 10 feet thick, making them incredibly resilient. Remarkably, no tower was ever successfully captured in a direct assault.

Communication was crucial. During the day, smoke signals relayed warnings across the island, while at night, fires served the same purpose. These signals allowed the islanders to mobilize their defenses and prepare for incoming threats.

While many of these towers have undergone restoration, they are largely closed to the public, with access limited to the exterior areas. This measure was taken to protect the historical structures from vandalism, a sad reality that has plagued many of these sites. Furthermore, the towers have unfortunately become associated with sombre tales of ritual suicides, adding to the reasons for restricted access.

The photographs accompanying this blog post, taken in July 2014 with a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera, capture the silent majesty of these historical sentinels. They stand as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the Ibizan people, a reminder of a time when the island's beauty was shadowed by the constant threat of invasion.

These towers, now silent guardians of the coastline, offer a glimpse into Ibiza's complex and often overlooked past. They stand as a poignant reminder that the island's story is far richer and more nuanced than the modern image of a party paradise. They are a tangible link to a time when survival depended on vigilance and fortitude, a time when the islanders stood together against the tides of history.

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 All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Portinatx, Ibiza's Hidden Gem

Ibiza is known for its vibrant nightlife, but the island also has a quieter side, with many hidden coves and beaches perfect for relaxation. Portinatx is one such gem, a small resort on the island's north coast that offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery. 

What to do in Portinatx 

• Relax on the beach. Portinatx has two main beaches, S'Arenal and Xarraca, both of which are small and sheltered. The sand is soft, and the water is crystal clear, making them perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

• Go for a hike. There are several hiking trails in the area, including one that leads to the top of a cliff with panoramic views of the coast and another that follows the coast to the lighthouse at Far del Moscarter. 

• Explore the underwater world. There are several dive sites around Portinatx, which is home to a variety of marine life. 

Where to stay in Portinatx 

There are a few hotels and apartments in Portinatx, but most of the accommodation is in the form of villas and holiday homes. This makes Portinatx a great option for families and groups of friends who want their own space. 

How to get to Portinatx 

The nearest airport to Portinatx is Ibiza Airport, which is about 30 minutes away by car. There are also regular buses from Ibiza Town to Portinatx and a regular boat service from the beach to a number of interesting locations on the island.

 

These pictures were taken in July 2014 using a Polaroid iS2132 digital camera. The pictures shown are of the town of Portinatx; the pictures I took of the pirate tower and lighthouse will feature in separate posts.

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