A short article touching on the various perceptions of San Antonio; part of arguably the most famous island in the Balearics- from the insalubrious to the idyllic. Enjoy.
The discerning holidaymaker would probably rate Ibiza fairly low down on their list of coveted destinations. To some, the very word conjures up various images of sweaty sunburnt twentysomethings with a wallet full of Euros and a penchant for drunkenness and the opposite sex. If you were to visit the uphill West End strip of San Antonio in Ibiza, this idea would be a pretty accurate reality. Upon visiting the strip, made famous by documentary ‘Ibiza Uncovered’ back in 1998 , lads in Ben Sherman shirts stumble about with gelled hair glistening under the illuminations, shouting obscenities at groups of girls who have interpreted 'Holiday Chic' as stretching tatty bits of fabric over blotchy bosoms, vainly attempting to cover their shiny sun ravaged faces with cheap streaky makeup.
The definitive 'Brits Abroad' Mecca; the stench of sickly sweet cheap booze, vomit and fried chicken in the late night August heat is something that will stay with you long after the last bar has closed its doors. Even worse when the long suffering Ibicenco cleaners trudge up the strip at dawn, pouring gallons of disinfectant that sloshes to the bottom of the hill creating a blend of smells that could test the reflexes of the strongest stomach.
There Is More To Ibiza Than This!
This is a miniscule part of one of the most beautiful islands in the world. It seems such a shame that one single street has given British people and the island such a horrendous reputation. 'Sant Antoni de Portmany' when graced with its full name, is in fact inhabited by many families, and homes and schools are present on quaint streets with rolling hills providing a striking backdrop.
To describe the sunsets on the West of the island as ‘the most beautiful in the world’ is a bold statement, but watching the sky turn countless shades of magenta and orange whilst the sun dips behind the rocks is enough to give the most cynical viewer goose bumps, and never fails to instigate cheers and bursts of applause from the crowds in appreciation of its beauty.
There are many hidden gems in and around San Antonio, if one knows where to look. It even boasts a bohemian campsite tucked away just on the outskirts, walking distance from the promenade. Picturesque and practical with all amenities including showers, a pool and a small café bar, with tall and leafy trees providing shade for campers.
A pleasant and cost effective way of spending time in Ibiza, mainly Spanish groups relax here and the babble of the West End strip is completely out of earshot. Amiable chatter and the odd strumming of a guitar may drift through the early evening air, however the atmosphere is peaceful, one of leisure and ease.
Dazzling Beaches and Beautiful Food
People do not think of pleasant beaches when San Antonio is mentioned; the first thing you see as you drive in from the East is the shallow waters of the promenade, which mainly seem to appeal to drunken revellers late at night. However a 15 minute walk off the beaten track will take you to stunning scenery, beautiful coves and secret beaches which only the veteran holidaymakers are savvy to. One of the lesser kept secrets is Cala Gracioneta , a charming cove next to Cala Gracio. Fine sand and warm tranquil water creates a perfect place to while away a hot summer’s afternoon.
An enchanting little café consisting of a few chairs and tables shaded by the green pine trees serves drinks and delicious seafood. The hours spent on Cala Gracioneta skip by, meaning that all too soon the departing sun has turned the sky pink again, and Ibiza nightlife begins.
For those who would like to enjoy the blissed out vibe of this beautiful cove restaurant, click here
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