Ibiza's Brand New Parador

Not known by many outside of Spain, a parador is a government run hotel - it is a way for the government to preserve landmarks, such as old castles, manors, hospices and convents. These historical buildings are transformed into luxury hotels known for their top notch service and flare for the local food.

Ibiza is the last of the heritage cities in Spain to get a parador of its own. Ibiza, an island in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain, has been known for years as a place with an active night life and party scene. Now it is gearing itself more towards families. The luxury hotel is one way it can draw in a different kind of crowd.

Ibiza's New Parador

Though the construction of the newest parador has been set back numerous times, it is now under way and set to be completed in 2011. The 72-bed hotel is part of an initiative to attract more tourists to Ibiza throughout the year.

Resorts in Ibiza

Among quaint villages and little white houses to rent are two main resorts. Bogamari is a popular choice for families. It is set against the San Antonio Bay. It features 10 bungalows, sun terraces, a pool, a marketplace, a bar and a relaxed atmosphere. These fully furnished one-story homes are clean, comfortable and attractive.

The other resort is Portinatx. It is picturesque, set around a cave and decorated with pine forests. It has three shallow water beaches that are perfect for family holidays. It is also a good base for families that enjoy hiking.

The Towns of Ibiza

Eivissa is the capital of Ibiza. The fortification is a world heritage site. Such sites are protected from commercial development. There are narrow streets, monuments, cathedrals and a castle. It has indoor and outdoor museums and is the future home of the parador. It is a cosmopolitan city that welcomes everyone.

The town is divided by the old and the new. The old town, Dalt Vila, is the upper part of town by the mountain and the sea. The other part, Eixample, is the modern part of the city.

Family Fun in Ibiza

There is more to Ibiza than the nightlife that most people are familiar with. There is plenty on the island for families to do:

o Go mountain biking.

o Explore the island by bike for a day of quality time, exercise and great scenery.

o Try parasailing, waterskiing, jetskiing, sailing or surfing to enjoy time on the water.

o Get in a workout, play some tennis or ride go-carts. Some of the hotels in Ibiza have these on-site.

o Challenge family members to a game of paintball for some competitive fun.

o Take a train tour. See remote spots on the island and take advantage of picture perfect moments while riding on a guided train tour.

o Take a self-guided walking tour. Since the island is only 45 km long and 25 km wide, it can best be seen on foot. Set off on your own and spend your time leisurely touring the island.

o Visit an aquarium.

o Go to a water park. Enjoy water slides while soaking up the sun.

o Attend a fiesta. They take place throughout the summer months.

o Take an island tour. Get background information about the history and culture of the Ibiza.

o Go on a daily excursion. Expand your holiday by visiting new places.

The new parador in Ibiza is sure to attract more families to the island. Looking past the nightlife, there is plenty to do on holiday in Ibiza. Being able to stay in a castle resort is the icing on the cake for holidays in Ibiza.

More details about Ibiza with the latest news and an Ibiza blog plus the Ibiza weather are online at youribiza.net