Ibiza beyond the party scene: Island can accommodate those seeking quiet vacations 

The Spanish island of Ibiza insists that it’s not only for youngish sorts determined to party hearty.

Ibiza, one of the Balearic islands, has earned a reputation as an epicenter of the European party scene, drawing large numbers of young people drawn by the likes of foam parties in its lively nightclubs.

But Carmen Sanchez Lapuente of Ibiza’s Tourist Promotion Office says the sometimes raucous nightlife is only found in two areas and it’s wrong for people to assume they’ll be hearing loud music and encountering youthful partiers everywhere during a stay on the Mediterranean island.

“We have the best clubs in the world, and we are really proud of that. But Ibiza is much more,” she said during a recent Balearic Islands presentation in Toronto.

“There are two different worlds. You can enjoy Ibiza at any age.”

Indeed, most of 572-square-kilometer Ibiza doesn’t have nightclubs and is suitable for seniors and families seeking a quiet vacation that might include a yoga retreat, she continued.

Sanchez Lapuente also noted the city of Ibiza has a historic side, with the Phoenicians and Romans having helped shaped it and ancient structures in its old quarter have earned UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition.

A one-time castle in the city now serves as a hotel, providing a non-mainstream lodging experience.

Meanwhile, Maria Cortez of Ibiza Luxury Destination — which provides vacation offerings for clients seeking an upscale vacation — agreed that her island shouldn’t simply be viewed as a party place.

“People think we are only a young person’s destination,” she said. “Ibiza is for everyone.”

She noted that her destination shouldn’t simply be viewed as a party place, noting that young travellers tend to seek inexpensive vacations, but Ibiza has numerous luxury hotels, such as a Nobu and a Six Senses.

Cortez reported that Ibiza Luxury Destination works with around 70 travel firms and is “ready to receive your premium clients.”