Sant Agusti des Vedra (San Agustin), South West Ibiza

As with many Balearic villages the town is comprised of farm houses and an ancient defence tower.

The church was originally built in 1786, but remained unfinished until 1806 when it was finally blessed. One noticeable feature of the church that makes it stand out on Ibiza, is that it's the only church to face west instead of east. According to records two different families insisted that the church to be constructed on their land. Finally, after much delay, the problem was solved and the church was built between both lands, facing both land owners’ homes, hence the west facing aspect.

Apart from visiting this town for a slice of rustic life, visitors tend to come to see the church.

The 19th century Esglesia de Sant Agusti is a large stone building whitewashed in typical Balearic style and topped with a bell tower, it's distinctive when compared to other Ibizan churches by its lack of porch area common to most. The church sits at the top of a small hill and from its courtyard there are lovely views out over the surrounding countryside and down to the coast.

Also in the village is an ancient stone defence tower in which the villagers would once have hidden from invaders.  

The coastline to the south and west of Sant Agusti is stunning and dotted with many of Ibiza’s best beaches. A day could easily be spent driving this scenic coastline and stopping at Cala Bassa, Cala Conta, Cala Tarida, and Cala D’ Hort which are all well signposted from the main roads in the area.

There are many more than just these four in the area though so pick a few or spend all day beach hopping them all.

Nearby peak Sa Talaiassa is a draw for many hikers, but aside from a small children’s playground alongside the church there are no organised activities in Sant Agusti. However, the whole area is one long scenic drive.

Can Berri Vell is the pride of Sant Agusti, located right next to the church courtyard in a 17th century farmhouse with plenty of outdoor seating in the courtyard and on the terrace. It prides itself on it’s rustic and traditional setting and has a menu to match with plenty of slow roasted, grilled and skewered meats reasonably priced and with a children’s menu too. Only open in the summer, it's always best to book ahead.

Next to the bus stop is also Bar Can Guillem, much less traditional this is an easy stop for a cold drink on a hot day.

Situated inland, this area is hilly and green with thick growths of forest, dotted with rustic farmhouses and wineries.

The 475m peak of Sa Talaiassa hill is a big draw to the area with people visiting to hike or drive up to its summit.

Nearby Sant Josep is the largest town in the south and has many more facilities than tiny Sant Agusti including banks, shops and restaurants, still a quiet town though, you need to head to San Antonio to the north for a large lively town.

Other than the restaurant and bar the only other thing you’ll find here is the Tabac which doubles as a small grocery store, you can buy cold drinks and ice cream here. There is no ATM in the village.

Located a few kilometres north of Sant Josep, this town is well sign posted on the road to Sant Josep from San Antonio. Two buses run here; the no.8 runs hourly in summer from San Antonio to Ibiza Town and no.9 runs hourly in summer from San Antonio – to the airport. Both buses stop on request on the main road by the San Agusti turn off, it is a 300m walk along grape strewn roads to the centre from there.