Famous Ibiza viewpoint Es Vedrà blocked by locals in bid to curb tourism

Ibiza’s iconic Es Vedrà viewpoints have been blocked by locals in a bid to curb high levels of tourism to the environmentally protected area.

Tourists have long visited locations overlooking the famous rock formation, with parties, litter, excess traffic, vandalism, and unlicensed mojito sales all being reported at nearby viewpoints over the years (per Noudiari).

According to Noudiari, local residents in Cala d’Hort de Sant Josep close to these viewpoints have attempted to block access to the car parks and the entryway to several lookout points, including a popular spot by the Savinar watchtower.

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Locals placed large rocks in front of “unofficial” car parks, according to the paper, meaning it’s no longer possible to park close to the viewpoints, and is also now inaccessible by foot.

Speaking to Noudiari, a local explained that many have “grown tired of allowing these car parks” nearby, which are unregulated, and are “taking up more and more land”.

“It is private land that they were giving up for this activity,” they said, adding that some people also park their cars along the road, rather than use unofficial parking spots.

Though these sites are environmentally protected, there are no protocols in place to stop excess tourism. Surveillance of these areas has never been implemented.

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Last year, Olive Press reported that Diplo was under investigation for hosting an illegal rave at Cala d’Hort viewpoint. He shared videos on social media, urging fans to join him at a “surprise party” on the protected site.

Local police in Ibiza, as well as the Sant Josep City Council, began investigating Diplo in the aftermath, which threatened a fine of €300,000.

The Sant Josep Town Council told Noudiari that it is attempting to “solve the problems suffered on previous occasions with the best of intentions".

[Via Noudiari]

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter