Look out to sea and across the Mediterranean island of Ibiza after trekking to the top of this towering peak.
Sa Talaia is the tallest mountain on Ibiza, a green-covered massif that reaches skyward for 1,558 feet (475 meters). Locals may refer to it as Sa Talaiassa. Hike up to the summit and enjoy the views of the rest of the island from its highest point.
A much-used route to the top starts in the plaza in front of the church of Sant Josep in the village of Sant Josep. From here head up Sa Talaia Street, which soon connects to a path at the foot of the mountain. Then begin your ascent. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and sweat-permeable clothes. Take food, water and sunscreen with you. In the autumn and winter, pack a raincoat. The route is steep in places and loose rocks and gravel can make sections of the path slippery. Pause from time to time to give yourself a chance to catch your breath and admire the views.
Trek to the summit in about 1.3 hours at a moderate pace over the one-way distance of 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers). It is suitable for almost all types of walkers. Depending on which route you take you may pass a plane crash memorial. It is inscribed with the names of the crew and passengers of Iberia Airlines Flight 602 that crashed into this mountain in January 1972, killing all 104 people onboard.
During your walk, watch for ginetas, small mammals with long tails and fur that is dotted with black specks. Although they are known to inhabit the mountain, they are a rare sight.
When you arrive at the summit, take your time to enjoy the stellar views in all directions. From the antenna near the TV relay station, you can see most of the island. Continue a little farther to the highest spot on Ibiza. On clear days you should be able to see the coastline of mainland Spain.
