Where and what?
In the south of Ibiza is Sant Jordi, a traditional Ibiza village, very close to the airport and the island's most popular resort, Playa d'en Bossa. Curiously, it is one of the few villages on the island that uses its Catalan name rather than the Spanish equivalent.
What's the story?
Sant Jordi's centre is located around its fortified church, once used to protect the villagers' valuables from marauding pirates and is the best example of its kind on the island. Next to it is a square filled with flowers and lined with palms trees that is a delight to stop and watch the world go by. You will find more restaurants, bars and services then other villages on the island, following the villages rise as an important residential area.
Why go?
The weekly Saturday market in Sant Jordi is known to all. You will see second hand goods, hand-made jewellery and even local food products. There is a great selection of bars and restaurants in and around the village, many of them inexpensively priced. People travel from across the island to try the tasty burgers at Vinyl or for something more traditional (and modern), try the great menu at the lovely Rasca Lobos. For succulent grilled meats, the excellent Cas Costas is but a short drive away.
How do I enjoy it?
Make your way to the centre of town take a stroll around and visit the church, folllowed by a spot of lunch in one of the many eateries. If you are going to the market, go early morning away from the midday sun to browse the many stalls, and snap up a bargain or two. Sant Jordi is also right next to the Las Salinas natural park, where you can see the famous salt flats and wildlife. You may be lucky to see the many flamingos there as well as various species of wild birds, many of which you will see by taking a nice stroll along the pebbly beach of Es Codolar.
WORDS | Julian Heathcote PHOTOGRAPHY | Peter Young
