Ibiza holidays can provide one of the largest range of activities anywhere in the Mediterranean. The famous party credentials of the island are well known, offering perhaps the best nightclub entertainment to be found in Europe. What may be less obvious for those yet to try one of the Ibiza holidays provided by tour operators like Thomas Cook is the unspoilt nature of much of island. Significant sections of Ibiza being designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites, and this status has protected against the overdevelopment seen in many other tourist hotspots around the Mediterranean. The balmy climate of Ibiza throughout the summer months provides the perfect conditions for exploration, and here you have several choices.
Horse riding is a gentle, non-intrusive way to see the countryside of Ibiza, and there are several established schools throughout the island for those that have yet to learn to ride a horse. From beginner upwards, the horse riding schools can not only teach the basics, but provide guided treks to suit all levels of abilities. Horse riding in Ibiza is perhaps the best chance to get some pictures of the local wildlife without scaring the birds and animals away.
If you prefer to explore under your own steam, mountain bike hire also provides an eco friendly mode of transport. There are at least 25 dedicated cycle routes established on Ibiza, ranging in difficulty levels from pleasant cruises to seriously technical terrain. One of the most popular guided mountain bike tours on Ibiza takes you through the protected Ses Salinas National Park, which features salt flats that are particularly photogenic at sunset. For the experienced rider, the Santa Ines Valley offers cliffs and valleys, technical terrain to provide a suitable test in between cruising past picturesque villages. Mountain bike hire is possible throughout the island, and this competition has ensured that bike hire is relatively inexpensive. Do remember to bring plenty of water with you if setting off on one of the longer trails, as dehydration can be an issue in the height of summer.
If you don t mind causing a commotion, however, and prefer sheer adrenalin to taking nice holiday snaps, you always have the motorised option. Off road vehicles and quad bikes can be hired from several outlets, and quickly take you off the beaten track. There are also guided scooter expeditions, which can be a great way to explore the island beyond your accommodation without too much adventure, great for those that like the freedom of cycling without the leg work.
Scuba diving and snorkelling are very pleasant activities in the warm waters around Ibiza. Several Scuba diving schools can provide tuition for beginners and provide PADI certification, while intermediate and experienced divers can try an exploration of the largest accessible wreck in European waters, the Don Pedro, which sank in 2007 and has been cleared for recreational diving.