Nature and Natural Parks in Ibiza

Ibiza has two National Parks of particular ecological interest and natural beauty; the ses Salinas National Park and the nature reserve of es Vedrà, es Vedranell, and the little islands to the west of Ibiza.

Ses Salinas National Park consists of an area situated between the south of the island of Ibiza and the north of Formentera, and covers an area of 1,786·52 hectares onland and 13,611·80 hectares offshore. A wide variety of differing natural features can be found, from salt lakes and beaches to lunar cords with centuries-old ghost trees, cliffs and rocky coastlines. In these places a peregrine falcon or a fishing eagle can be spotted, along with the little Freus islands including s’Espalmador, s’Espardell, and the isle des Penjats.

The nature reserve of es Vedrà, es Vedranell, and the little islands to the west of Ibiza is situated to the south-west of the island of Ibiza, in the town of Sant Josep de sa Talaia. This protected area is made up of small islands, marine environment, cliffs, streams, beaches, cultivable fields, forests and hill ranges.

A special feature of this reserve is the fact that it includes the highest point on the island; sa Talaia is 487 metres above sea level.

Ibiza’s marine component is characterised by the presence of dense and very well preserved prairies of oceanic Posidonia (seagrass) and coral reefs. The oceanic Posidonia beds at the Marine Reserve are the best preserved beds in the Mediterranean basin.

The island’s seabed contains the most diverse community of Cladocora caespitosa, supporting 220 species, the highest record for a marine community in the Mediterranean. This community offers protection to three globally endangered species such as the Mediterranean monk seal. In this area can be found an important community of Ecteinascidia turbinata, a marine species with recognised value to prevent and combat different types of cancer.
Parts of the declared areas are included in the List of Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) for their importance for migratory birds.