SAN JOSE IBIZA

The addition to the name of Sant Josep (San Jose) indicates its position, close to the northern flank of Sa Talaia, Ibiza's highest peak.

The village, set on a hillside above a fertile plain, the surrounding hills covered in pines, is an idyllic place. It has also escaped major development, though there are significant numbers of visitors, drawn by the craft shops and art galleries as Sant Josep is a major centre for island based artists. EI Palio and Siena at Esconellas are the most important galleries Look, too, for shops selling embroidery, most of it made by the local women-folk.

Also worth looking out for is the village church, a typically fortress like building with an elegant arcaded entrance. The church was started in the 15th century, but not finally completed until 300 years later. Inside there is a huge baroque altar complete with statues in niches. The walls are beautifully half tiled, the lavish ceiling bosses equally good. Look, too, for the realistic, but gruesome, painting of Christ after his scourging.

Sant Josep is the starting point for the walk to Ibiza's highest point and has several excellent refreshment stops for weary walkers. There is also a quiet park, opposite the church, for resting after your exertions.