When the thermometer falls, and the hustle and bustle of the island has left its mark, Ibiza shows itself as it really is: genuine, quiet and faithful to its traditions. A destination that has little to do with the crowded evenings of Benirrás and whose true character goes much further than a stroll through Atlantis or the hippie markets of Las Dalias or Sant Rafael.

On this route we not only propose to discover this unknown face of Ibiza, but also the natural, historical and peasant side. Two days during which you can enjoy the silence of the island and start with a one day trip to one of those villages that have characterized the entire island with their physiognomy and customs.

Our first day on the route of natural Ibiza begins twelve kilometers northwest of the capital, just in the village of Sant Antoni de Portmany. A place where the coast, the beautiful sunsets of Ses Variades and the landscapes of the interior of the island harmoniously harmonize to create the perfect scenic spot. At the starting point, and after enjoying a breakfast of coffee and orelletes (typical pastries of the island), you should visit the church of Sant Antoni. (It was in the past the local homestead) Also recommended is the historical center of the village. Here you will not only find the true hand-painted fabrics, but you can also enjoy the best pastries and the finest local wines.

Another place, which was of fundamental importance in the history of Ibiza, its customs and way of life, is Sant Miquel. This place, where you can enjoy other places of interest such as the underground chapel of Santa Agnès or the beautiful Cova des Vi, houses one of the most beautiful and least known untouched treasures of Ibiza: the Sant Miquel cave. With its more than one hundred thousand year history and its 40 meters, a visit to the cave leads to small lakes, waterfalls, light and sound. You will feel like being on another planet.

If you head towards the north of the island (about 7 km from Sant Antoni de Portmany) you will reach the destination of this route through the natural and unknown Ibiza: Sant Joan de Labritja. Although it is only one of the white villages characterized by its tranquility, Sant Joan is a true treasure of the island's history: the village takes the rural architecture of Balàfia, which dates back to the times of the Muslims and gives us hints on the changes this small Balearic island was exposed over the centuries.

After looking at the way the islanders work, and discovering how the peasants ordered their fields and courtyards and enjoyed a thousand and one postcard views, you cannot leave without taking a bite in one of the typical local restaurants. The menu? Follow the recommendations of the waiters who will offer you seasonal dishes as they are always excellent.

No visitor to Ibiza can boast of being a "real guest" on the island without enjoying the "Ruta del Río". The path is the star among the paths and trails of the island and the perfect plan for the winter months. With start and end at Santa Eulària des Riu, the "Ruta del Río" brings you closer to the history of the only river on Ibiza (and also the Balearic Islands) and everything related to it. The route has about 12 kilometers and is easy to visit. It offers numerous postcard views, legends with dwarfs and devils and cultural centers, in which you can learn how the life of the island was formerly.

Although the route is not too long, it is advisable to start it early in the morning to use all the hours of daylight (do not forget that the sun is set in the Balearic Islands much earlier than in other parts in Spain and it is already dark at six o'clock in the evening).

Put on your mountain or hiking boots and fill your backpack with all necessary for the trip. The route begins at the mouth of the Santa Eulària River; go straight to the old bridge, the bridge built according to the local legend in a single night by small spirits called Fameliars.

It is worth taking a break to view the cereal mills. Driven by water, they were of great importance for the economic life of the place. At this point, at the foot of the Puig de Missa, you can not only enjoy this sight, but also take a trip to the Interpretation Center of the Santa Eulària River to get to know the history of the river better.

The further you leave Santa Eulària des Riu, the more you enter the landscape of fruit trees. (The sight is particularly impressive in spring.) The Mediterranean forests are full of pines and in them nest the native bird species of the islands. Since the goal is to return to the start, it is advisable not to invest more than three hours in the way out. The way back on the same way is then all the easier.

Back at the river mouth, you have earned refreshment. We suggest the end of the hike with a fish stew (Guisat de Peix), one of the most delicious fish dishes in Ibiza's cuisine. For a price affordable in most restaurants on the promenade of Santa Eulària des Riu, you should try this dish to better understand the island's philosophy.