Sant Miquel de Balansat sits on a hill in the north of the island, about 20 minutes from Ibiza Town and a few minutes inland from the bay of Port de Sant Miquel.
What it’s like
The village grew up around its church on the Puig de Missa, a white fortified building that once served as a refuge from pirate raids. From its courtyard there are views over the valley of Balansat towards the sea. Below it, the village itself is small and practical, with a few shops, bars and restaurants along the main street.
What to see and do
In summer, the church courtyard hosts weekly performances of ball pagès, Ibiza’s traditional folk dance, by the local group, the Colla de Balansat, usually on Thursday evenings, with a craft market alongside. It is one of the best chances to see the island’s traditional costumes and music.
Sant Miquel celebrates its patron saint on 29 September. Nearby are the bay of Port de Sant Miquel, the cave of Can Marçà and, a little further east, Benirràs.
Getting there
The village is on the road from Ibiza Town to Port de Sant Miquel, about 20 minutes’ drive away. There is parking in the village, though the lane up to the church is narrow.
Good to know
Time a visit for a summer Thursday evening, watch the dancing and then head down to the coast for dinner.
