Es Vedrà: the story of Ibiza's mystical rock

Rising almost 400 metres straight out of the sea off Ibiza's south-west corner, Es Vedrà is the island's most powerful landmark — and its most storied. ## A natural monument Es Vedrà and its smaller neighbour Es Vedranell form a protected marine and terrestrial reserve, important for seabirds such as Eleonora's falcon and for the posidonia seagrass meadows that keep the surrounding water so clear. ## Legends and lore Local tradition links the rock to the sirens of Homer's Odyssey, who were said to lure sailors onto its cliffs. Others tell of a cave where the Carthaginian general Hannibal was born, or of UFO sightings and strange magnetic readings. None of it is provable — all of it is part of the island's character. ## How to see it - By land: the clifftop tower of Torre des Savinar, above Cala d'Hort, gives the best view - By sea: kayak or boat trips circle the rock, weather permitting, and stop for a swim - At sunset: the rock turns copper, then violet, then black against the afterglow ## Visiting responsibly The reserve is protected, and landing on Es Vedrà is not permitted. Enjoy it from the water or the clifftop, keep to the paths and take your rubbish home.