Once the hectic pace of summer comes to an end there is a collective feeling of contentment that imbues the towns and villages. Far from closing down, Ibiza comes to life in a completely different way. Taking advantage of the cooler weather it’s the winter that sees a lot of local festivals taking place such as the Blessing of the Animals in Santa Gertrudis church, the annual wine festival in San Mateo and a number of open-air Flower Power parties in the main streets and plazas of San Jose, San Antonio and San Carlos.
In January the north of the island comes alive with the delicate pinks and frosty whites of almond blossoms. A walk from the tiny village of Santa Agnes overlooking the extensive almond groves is a must do. Many favourite restaurants are open throughout winter too and it’s a great time of year to try out some local, hearty dishes such as estofado (stew), ensalada payesa (local salad) and suckling pig. A firm favourite for seafood is Sa Caleta which offers up arroces (rices) and seafood stews on the picturesque Bol Nou beach all year round.