Weather forecast Ibiza

Ibiza (including rainfall and temperature averages)

There’s something about the pine-covered island that attracts invaders. Since 647 BC, when the Phoenicians established the port of Ibossim, Ibiza has been ruled from outside: first the Carthaginians, who established it as a major trading post for dye, salt, fish sauce and wool; then the Romans, who allowed it to fall into decline. The Moors conquered Ibiza along with the rest of Spain, only relinquishing it to the Christian kings in 1250 AD. For the next seven hundred years, the island was a forgotten backwater, only beginning to flourish again when it was discovered by tourists. From the 1950s onwards it became known as the ultimate paradise for hippies, who were drawn by its stunning scenery and laidback lifestyle. This image began to change in the 1980s, when the superclubs started to open: crowds of ravers were followed by mass package tours and San Antonio is now known for leading the European costa hooliganista. The government is trying to counteract this with a series of anti-hooligan laws, including one that makes all clubs shut by 6 a.m. and another that allows only 5-star hotels to be built.

It might be the clubbing capital of the world these days, but there is much more to “the Gomorrah of the Med” than Pacha and Eden. Away from the bars that line much of the coast, there are dozens of exquisite cove beaches that are almost empty even in high season, while the thickly wooded interior is hilly and dotted with tiny whitewashed hamlets. Olive, almond and carob trees grow here and the growing agritourism industry boasts chic eco-hotels that offer the ideal getaway. In the cool sea breeze, visitors can luxuriate in the temperate climate that even in deepest winter rarely goes below 10ºC and reaches a maximum of 30º in August.

The island is also home to a number of UN World Heritage sites such as “God’s Finger”, a rock in Benirras Bay, and the Cave of Es Culleram, a Carthaginian shrine to the goddess Tanit. Near San Antonio, the islet Es Vedra is surrounded by many myths and legends: some classicists believe that this is Homer’s Island of the Sirens, while hippies claim that it is an intergalactic landing site! Islanders also say that it is the tip of the lost city of Atlantis… In San Antonio itself, the Egg sculpture in the middle of a busy roundabout was constructed to bolster claims that Christopher Columbus was born in the town.

As everywhere in Spain, food is crucially important to Ibicencos. Although it’s possible to live entirely on fish and chips and other British delicacies, the feasting opportunities are far wider. As expected on an island, the seafood is excellent, ranging from swordfish and monkfish to lobster and squid. The classic Spanish dishes – tapas and paella washed down with Sangria – are served with a local twist; while specialities include Sofrit Pages, a spiced stew made of lamb, pork and chicken with whole garlic and peppers, pumpkin-filled croissants and herbed cheesecake. The local tipple is Hierbas Ibicencos, an anise-based liqueur flavoured with rosemary. With all that and more on offer, the main concern will be how to fit into your bikini