San José (Sant Josep in Catalan) is a beautiful village in the west of Ibiza, in the foothills of Sa Talaia, the highest mountain on the island, which measures 475 metres. San José is the 'capital' of the area of the same name and boasts some excellent restaurants, shops and bars. The main street is lined by an impressive church where you can sit under the shade of the courtyard trees for a peaceful repose.
Whilst many people from other countries have found a new home here, it is still very much a traditional Ibizan village. The church bells still chime every morning at 8:00; old men sit in cafés drinking their daily brandy and the locals stop their cars in the road to have a quick chat through the window. Life here happens at a much slower pace than in the larger resorts.
Restaurants and bars
There is a surprisingly wide choice of restaurants and bars in this small village, from exclusive restaurants to pizza places, traditional bars and spots where you can enjoy great cocktails and even live music.
All these places are either on the main road or in the small lanes running off it. When hungry, all you need do is wander around and take a look at the menus outside each establishment - most have English versions - and find a place that suits you.
Shops
San José has several nice small shops and boutiques. Here you can find some lovely souvenirs including pretty traditional ceramics. There are also colourful Ibizan fashion items, trendy children's toys and many other lovely things you didn't even know you needed.
There are also several supermarkets, a fishmonger, a butcher, two patisseries, a pharmacy and cash machines in the village. If you are staying in a villa nearby, then you can easily cater for yourself.
Ecological food and craft market
Each Saturday morning from April to end of October, there is a lovely food and craft market in the centre of the village aimed at promoting the island's local products and traditions.
Around 20 stalls offer local and organic products such as fruit and vegetables or home-made bread and pastries. You will also find artists selling paintings, ceramics, sculptures and other handicrafts.
Find information about all the markets on Ibiza here.
Nearby villas
In the green hills and rural surroundings of San José you'll find a good choice of private holiday villas - here you can stay in absolute peace and quiet knowing that Ibiza Town, Playa d'en Bossa and San Antonio can all be reached in just 15 minutes by car or taxi.
