Discover Ibiza’s charming neighbourhoods

San Juan is becoming one of Ibiza’s most up and coming areas for those seeking their own personal rural retreat with complete privacy away from the bustle of the south and west. The charm of the area is a mix of unspoiled nature (hidden beaches, stunning rugged coastline and beautiful valleys) with the laid-back countryside feeling and boho chic vibe. Due to the increased demand in the area, GHL has opened a new office there specifically for this market.  The classic Ibicenco finca is the primary architectural style found in this area, but there are also a few newly built properties retaining the local style, all of which boast magnificent views. The village of San Juan is the focal point of this region, along with the hamlet of San Miguel. The main beaches in the area are Portinatx, Cala San Vicente and the renowned Benirràs beach – famous for the hippy drummers who celebrate sunset throughout the summer months, while the sun sinks into the sea. Top Ibiza properties with exceptional views increased in price by up to 7% last year and for villas in prime locations prices are around Euros 7,000 per square metre. Rare mountain top properties with sea views can be significantly higher in price.

The heart of this area is the picturesque village of Santa Gertrudis, a most attractive village with an open plaza and pedestrian streets, restrained architecture, excellent restaurants, cafés and fashionable boutiques – providing a sophisticated yet laid-back environment. The International School at Morna Valley is a major attraction for families. There are a number of livery stables in and around San Lorenzo and Santa Gertrudis, as horse riding is popular in the area. Another central town is San Rafael, which has been declared the only artisan zone – Zona de Interés Artesanal – in Ibiza because of the traditional pottery shops there. The centre of the island has become one of the most sought after places to live on the island and this is reflected in the property prices, which have risen by up to 10% in the past twelve months. Villas in the best locations with gardens and pools start from Euros 8,500 per square metre, but can be significantly higher with rare sea views.

The resort town of San Antonio is probably the best known in this area, and it’s the second largest town on the island. The town gets very busy in summer, especially with young English holidaymakers who come to Ibiza for the parties and the sun. In winter the town gets quieter and families enjoy living here. On the outskirts of the town there are the pretty villages of Santa Agnès, San Augustín, San Mateo and Buscastells which remain almost totally unspoilt and keep the charm of the laid-back country-life. In these areas it is still possible to find a relatively quiet place to live. The west side is also famous for the beautiful beaches of Cala Salada, Cala Compte and Cala Bassa. From many places in the west, the amazing Ibiza sunset can be seen, and this adds to the desirability of the area, especially around Cala Salada, with prices around Euros 10,000 per square metre and rising.

(Photo: Shutterstock, Cartera deitsmejust)