If you want an exhilarating easy and way to explore Ibiza and especially its north, a road train is really worth discovering. We set out on the Tourist Train at Es Figueral, one of several routes, to see what fun we could have.
This one, like the others, would sweep us along past nature on quiet country roads and also take in one of Ibiza's famous hippy markets. It sounded like a good plan.
It's a trip for everyone. Families, couples and friends can all enjoy an exciting journey that takes you through emerald rolling hills and unspoilt farmland. There are two stops on this tour, where you can prepare to free your spirit at Punta Arabí, one of the island's most famous hippy markets and take in the beauty of the picturesque Cala Nova.
On these Tourist Train trips, you can see so much Ibiza has on show and learn new things about the island – and still make it back for lunchtime.
views of ibiza
Vines in one of the many vineyards along our route
The north of Ibiza is blessed with blissful countryside and calming nature. Travelling leisurely on the road gave a good opportunity to take in the beauty as our expert tour guide Rosa explained (both in English and German) where we were and what we were seeing along the way.
Away from the hectic tourist spots, it was a rare delight to see such calmness as the train made its way through the pretty village of San Carlos and past some bucolic sights that really take your breath away. In less than an hour, we'd seen vast orange plantations, wild carob trees and deliciously colourful vineyards before the train pulled up near Es Caná in Punta Arabí for an hour-and-a-half stop.
Even before stepping off, the vibrant atmosphere hits you straight away. Here we enter Bohemia. It was time to explore the hippy market.
Into the bazaar
Punta Arabí hippy market is a showcase of handcrafted delights and locally sourced produce. Its enticing energy draws you in and soon you are lost inside the array of colourful stalls.
You will find a world of handcrafted goods from jewellery, clothes, bags, porcelain, soaps and all manner of things. Stallholders are a mix of locals and those that have settled here, all with that carefree spirit that the island seems to engender.
Life and colour on the market at Punta Arabí
This part of the trip was a chance to stretch our legs and grab a bite to eat. The time given is just the right amount of time to explore all the different interesting parts of the market and still be left wanting a bit. We made a note to return as soon as we could.
The place was buzzing with activity. It was a labyrinth of discovery where hidden treasures could be found as the sun peeked through the tarpaulins above. It was like visiting a market bazaar typical to one you'd imagine finding on the streets of Istanbul, though on Ibiza.
cala nova beach
The welcoming approach to lovely Cala Nova beach
Our second and final stop was at the gorgeous Cala Nova beach just north of Es Caná. Here you could can take a walk on the golden sand, splash around in the clear water or grab an ice-cream and breathe in the fresh sea air.
It would have been nice to have a little longer during this stop, but then again, you get to see a beach that is a true gem of the north and the stop here topped off a fantastic day out on the roads of Ibiza.
Fun for all on the Tourist Train
The Tourist Train can best be described as an all-in-one excursion. It's informative, entertaining and allows you to see and understand more of the island, something that few get to do.
Rather than a renting a car, the train allows you to see the north's untouched countryside with expert guidance. Its route takes you away from the busy main roads and up and onto winding country paths, where we were essentially alone; it felt like an actual train at times. Plus it's sociable and relaxed, whilst still pleasing the adventurer inside you.
With a not too early start, you are back in Es Figueral before 14:00, which means you still have the whole day to work on that tan. I was surprised having checked the time once it was over. It felt like a full day of fun packed in just a few hours.
If you are short on time, want it all done for you and fancy seeing a magical side of Ibiza, then the Tourist Train at Es Figueral or indeed any of the trips this company runs are for you. Check them out today!
