Most people think of Ibiza and picture clubs, beaches, and sunsets over Café del Mar. And yes, all of that is wonderful. But there's another Ibiza that wakes up every spring — one of pine-scented forests, wildflower meadows, clifftop views and ancient stone paths that feel miles away from anything. April is genuinely one of the best times to lace up your boots and explore this island on foot.
The temperatures are perfect (think 18–22°C), the almond trees have blossomed, and the countryside is shockingly lush and green. You'll share trails with more butterflies than tourists, and the sea below the cliffs has that impossibly vivid turquoise it only gets before the summer crowds arrive. Here are my favourite routes — from total beginners to those who fancy a proper challenge.
Es Amunts: The Wild Heart of the Island
If you haven't explored Es Amunts, you haven't really seen Ibiza. This natural park in the north-west of the island is the largest protected area — a rugged patchwork of pine forest, dry stone walls, ancient farmhouses (fincas), and quiet lanes where you're more likely to encounter a lizard than another person.
The most accessible entry point is from Sant Joan de Labritja, one of those whitewashed Ibizan villages that feels frozen in the best possible way. From here, a network of walking paths spreads out through the park. The route to Cala d'en Serra takes you through terraced fields and pine woodland before rewarding you with a steep descent to one of the most pristine, undeveloped coves on the island. Allow around 3 hours return and bring more water than you think you need.
What makes Es Amunts special in April is the wildflowers. The hillsides erupt with rosemary, lavender, cistus and wild asparagus — which locals (and anyone who knows what they're doing) will forage for a spring tortilla. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars: the park is a key migration corridor and you may spot hoopoes, bee-eaters and short-toed eagles passing through.
The Coastal Path: Cala Comte to Cala Bassa
For those who want dramatic scenery without a strenuous climb, the coastal path between Cala Compte and Cala Bassa on the south-west coast is simply stunning. You follow the rocky cliffside with the sea crashing below you, the pine forest pressing in on one side, and views out towards the Es Vedrà rock that look like they've been Photoshopped.
The walk itself is around 5km one way and takes about 90 minutes at a leisurely pace — though you'll probably stop every ten minutes to photograph something. In spring, you have the added bonus of the beaches at each end being beautifully quiet. Afterwards, drop down to Cala Comte for a swim and a cold drink at one of the beach bars before the season goes into full swing. In April, you might have the whole place to yourself.
Sa Talaia: Conquering Ibiza's Highest Peak
For something with a bit more bite, Sa Talaia is the answer. At 475 metres, it's Ibiza's highest peak — not exactly Everest, but the panoramic views from the summit are absolutely worth the effort. On a clear day you can see across to Formentera, the Balearic Sea, and on exceptional days as far as mainland Spain.
The most popular ascent starts from Sant Josep de sa Talaia, a charming village in the south-west. The trail is well-marked and takes around 2.5 hours return. It climbs through terraced farmland and then into rockier terrain as you approach the summit. Spring is genuinely the best season for this hike — the vegetation is at its most vibrant and the summit won't be baking in the summer heat.
A tip from someone who's done this more times than I can count: start early. Not just to avoid the heat, but to catch the morning light on the hills. Bring a proper breakfast to eat at the top. You won't regret it.
Portinatx to Cala Xarraca: The North Coast Gem
This is probably my most-recommended route for visitors who want something genuinely off the beaten track. The north coast around Portinatx is different from the rest of Ibiza — wilder, quieter, with a raw Mediterranean beauty that feels almost untouched.
The walk from Portinatx down to Cala Xarraca takes you along the cliffside with sweeping views of the deep blue bay below, through fragrant maquis scrubland — that heady mix of rosemary, thyme and pine — and down to one of the prettiest small coves on the island. In April, Cala Xarraca is deserted. You may well have the whole beach to yourself.
Return the same way or, if you're feeling adventurous, continue along the coastal track towards Cala d'en Serra. Either way, plan for a couple of hours and end with a coffee at one of the few bars still open in Portinatx at this time of year.
Practical Tips Before You Head Out
A few local pointers that will make your hiking day considerably better. Spring weather in Ibiza can be changeable, especially in the north — a light waterproof layer is worth packing even on days that look completely clear. The sun is deceptively strong by midday, so sunscreen is non-negotiable.
Water is the big one. There are very few reliable water sources on Ibiza's trails. Carry at least 1.5 litres per person for anything over two hours. For navigation, download the AllTrails app or grab one of the walking maps from the tourist office in Eivissa. The Vives Costa 1:50,000 topographic map is the one locals actually use.
The best times to hike in Ibiza are April–June and September–November. July and August can be brutally hot, and you'll share the trails with many more people. Right now, in April, you're in the sweet spot.
Get out there. The island looks completely different on foot — and honestly? You might find this version of Ibiza is your favourite one yet.