Es Cubells

Although set just outside the buzz of the village of San José, Es Cubells is distant enough to create a wonderful feeling of seclusion. As you drive past traditional fincas and rural farmland plus olive and orange groves, the pressure of every day life seems to just slip away. Time stands still in this tiny, picturesque village, which consists of nothing more than a beautiful whitewashed church, a kids’ playground and two bars. And then there are the most heavenly views to Formentera. It may be small in size, however Es Cubells is without a doubt one of the most highly sought after areas in Ibiza for luxury villa rentals. The exclusive, ultra private properties peppered along the rocky cliffside are contemporary and luxurious in style, yet possess an air of laid-back chic, setting the scene for the ultimate Mediterranean getaway.

Local dining

Typical Spanish cuisine can be found in the two restaurants in the little village – take your pick between Bar Llumbi Restaurante – famous for mama’s pork chops and tasty tapas dishes – overlooking the sea, or tuck into hearty plates like grilled meats, whole fish baked in salt, paella or typical Ibicenco dishes including bullit de peix or guisat de peix on the sunny terrace of Bar Restaurante Es Cubells just opposite the church. Drive further down the winding road that leads to the beach and you’ll discover one of Ibiza’s best kept secrets: Ses Boques. A truly idyllic setting shaded beneath Sabina trees, this is rustic, authentic beach dining at its best. Fresh seafood and grilled meats are prepared using 40-year old recipes, with most ingredients from the soil or sea of Ibiza.

Nearby attractions

The three coves in the Es Cubells area are fascinating exploration grounds for divers and snorkelers alike. Just behind the church is a fun kids’ playground, where the little ones can keep themselves entertained while mum and dad enjoy a drink or lunch on one of the restaurant terraces. Beside the playground is a contemporary statue, made in 1996, paying tribute to the local fishermen, and with nothing but a haze of azure Mediterranean Sea and sky in the backdrop – picture perfect Instagram fodder. For those seeking more culinary or beach club action, the bright lights of Cala Jondal are just a short drive away.

Best beaches

The intimate beach of Es Cubells is pure heaven. Accessed via a bumpy road surrounded by burnt amber cliff faces, the journey bubbles with anticipation for the destination as you meander your way down the hill. The shoreline here is quite pebbly, but the waters crystal clear, and by lunchtime the beach restaurant is buzzing so be sure to arrive early to score the best sunbeds. Nearby, Es Xarcu provides another dirt track experience leading to a pine-scented, secluded cove that is also very popular with locals, while Cala Llentrisica – much harder to reach and oh-so-worth the effort – offers a more secluded, desert island experience.