Atlantis the hidden cove of Ibiza does not appear on tourist maps, and there are no signs that follow the name. The sand canyon leading to this place is difficult to find and requires some physical strength to enter. We are facing one of the best kept secrets of Ibiza, in the Cala D'Hort Natural Park, which includes the island of Es Vedra. Although due to its famous name, Ibizan Atlantis did not have palaces, nor did some citizens suffer the wrath of the Greek gods playing the lyre.
In fact, this wonder of turquoise waters is an old quarry that was transformed during the hippie movement of the 60s into a magical place to get in touch with the nature of the island. Atlantis is an old sandstone quarry from a time when hippies and legends turned the area into a mystical place in Ibiza. In the 16th century, much of the material was extracted to build part of the walls of the city of Dalt Vila, today a World Heritage Site.
Atlantis mythology
These works contributed to giving it its current shape, like rocky breakwaters dug into the sea, steps and folds through which the Mediterranean flows. In Atlantis, hippies also built small altars, carved figures, and painted images of Buddhas or gods from Hindu cosmology on the walls. Some say that Atlantis is located at the foot of the Savinal Tower, within the sphere of influence of Es Vedra, and has special energies.
The name refers to the ancient city lost in the sea and was given by the hippies who settled in the small town once used by stonemasons on rainy days. In the 1960s, the hippie community embarked on a peaceful lifestyle where some "extrasensory experiences" had to be accompanied by a natural environment. Atlantis is one of them because it fits perfectly. Shapes in the rocks, pools and artistic effects on the walls give the place an aura of legend.
Currently, Atlantis is a nudist cove due to its privacy and difficulty of access. Although it must be clarified that it is not a cove itself since the terrain is rocky and somewhat uncomfortable to lie down. The seabed itself is sandy, which gives the water a light, sometimes even turquoise shade. If you like snorkeling, it is a fantastic place because of the wide variety of fish there are. Although you have to be careful, jellyfish are easy to find due to their temperature and currents.
How to get to Atlantis
Getting to Atlantis in Ibiza is not easy, that's why they call it Atlantis, the hidden cove of Ibiza. Some give up or get lost. Atlantis is located in the Es Cubells region, southeast of Ibiza, 7 kilometers from San José. If you go by car, you must take the road towards Cala d'Hort, one of the most popular coves on the island, as it is located in front of Es Vedrà.
The descent can take around 30 minutes and requires good comfortable shoes that do not slip. The path, although hard, is not particularly dangerous. It is not necessary to be in good physical shape or be athletic, but it is a little demanding because you have to overcome rocks and dunes. It is better to get there than to return, because as usual, the climb is always harder than the descent.
If you get lost and find someone in the area, look for Sa Pedrera. The locals know exactly how to get there. Of course, bring plenty of water, some food, a hat and sunscreen. In this corner of dreams, there is no shadow. Oh! And don't forget your diving goggles because, as we told you before, you will be amazed by its marine fauna.