GOING BALEARIC

The name Ibiza conjures up images of hedonistic beach parties, all-night raves and boozed-up Brits abroad. But there’s an alternative side to the Spanish island – one of quiet natural beauty and great trail riding potential, as British ripper Monet Adams found out.

“Standing in the check-in queue and looking around at the other EasyJet customers, I had my reservations about the quality of the riding we might expect on the island, but I was happily proven wrong,” she told us. “A crew of locals called the Carub Riders showed us everything from XC trails that wound their way through farms, past vineyards and along azure coastlines, to downhill-inspired lines that got the blood pumping. They’ve got a spot overlooking the town of Ibiza itself that boasts several descents of switchbacking berms and loose loamy corners, fun senders and natural rock gardens, which spit you out into flower meadows, and have built an impressive jump line too.”

Not only that, but riders can expect a taste of the good life. “The few days we spent on the island began with mind-blowing sunrises and fresh oranges picked from our villa garden,” said Monet. “That was followed by trail snacks of figs and fresh almonds, and evenings at the same small restaurant, where we worked our way through the incredible menu. The Carub Riders mused to us that no one else really rides mountain bikes on Ibiza, but I have a feeling that won’t be the case for much longer.”