The hamlet of Es Cubells is Ibiza’s southernmost village. Despite its tiny size, the special cliff top location affords it a particular charm as well as unique views.
How to get to Es Cubells?
If approaching from the west of the island, take the Es Cubells road directly from the town of San José and follow it for 6 km. If approaching from Ibiza town, take the San José road and a little before reaching the town take the turn to the left towards Es Cubells. Drive carefully as there are lots of bends. You can also get there by bus, but it’s impractical. The only direct line is from San José, so if you are coming from San Antonio you would have to take two buses and from Ibiza, three. We recommend you rent a vehicle to get about.
What to see in Es Cubells?
Es Cubells is a peaceful, quiet spot, far from the main centres. Its beaches are somewhat tricky to get to. The main buildings are a Teresian convent just outside the village (closed to the public) and the church on the cliff-top. The origins of the church date back to the nineteenth century. Exiled Carmelite priest, Francisco Palau, aka. Pare Palau, famous for his solitary retreats on Es Vedrà, built the chapel that would later become the church. To the right of the church there is a small park with a bust in his honour. The town has a couple of bars, a small shop and an unassuming cultural centre. On the cliff there is also a monument representing a “llaüt”, the traditional Ibizan fishing craft.
What makes this tiny enclave so remarkable are its fantastic sea-views from the cliff. There are also some great beaches close by like Cala des Cubells, Ses Boques or Cala Llentrisca and, a bit further away, Es Torrent and Porroig, all very little frequented due to the difficult access.
Where to eat or drink in Es Cubells?
Es Cubells has a several restaurants. Right in the village you have Restaurante Es Cubells and Bar Llumbi while Cas Mestre and Ses Boques are in the outskirts but nearby.
This typical restaurant, right by the church, is open year-round, and specialises in rice dishes, fish as well as typical island fare. It is a sort of village nerve centre which also offers a daily set menu and ample terraces.
The stunning views from the terrace as well as the home- cooked and reasonably priced food never fail to attract people to this spot.
Can Mestre is located before you get to Es Cubells. It is one of those long-standing local family businesses which is both shop and restaurant. It has a simple but varied menu, and a very pleasant terrace area where you can dine for a very reasonable Price.
If you are looking for something more special, on the nearby beach of Ses Boques you will find the restaurant of the same name which only opens in the Summer. This is a lovely restaurant with a terrace by the sea boasting views of Formentera where you can enjoy delicious rice dishes, “caldereta de langosta” (lobster stew) and fresh fish both at lunchtime and at night.
