Es Vedranell: the secret "little sister" of Es Vedrà

If there is one image that defines the magic of Ibiza, it is undoubtedly the silhouette of Es Vedrà emerging from the sea like a stone giant. However, right next to it—often eclipsed by the magnetism and legends of its "big brother"—lies a geological gem of equal beauty but much more mystery: Es Vedranell.

In 2026, this islet has established itself as the preferred destination for travelers practicing slow travel, scuba diving enthusiasts seeking pristine seabeds, and sailors chasing absolute silence. It is the little sister, the unknown one, but also the most authentic sanctuary of biodiversity within the Nature Reserves of the Ibizan southwest. In this complete guide, we invite you to discover everything about Es Vedranell island and why it deserves your attention on your next trip to the island.

What exactly is Es Vedranell?

Located in the municipality of Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Es Vedranell is an uninhabited islet that forms part of the imposing Nature Reserves of Es Vedrà, Es Vedranell, and the Western Islets. While tourists' eyes usually go straight to the 382-meter height of Es Vedrà, Es Vedranell possesses its own personality that surprises anyone who gets close enough to know it.

It is an islet with an extremely rugged terrain. What stands out most is its curious horseshoe shape, a feature that can only be fully appreciated from the air or from the summit of Es Vedrà, but which from sea level gives it a physiognomy of sharp peaks and vertical ravines. Despite its small size compared to other islets, it reaches astonishing heights of over one hundred meters (between 99 and 117 meters at its ends), creating breathtaking cliffs.

Geography and physiognomy: the rock horseshoe

Es Vedranell island is a true geological laboratory. Its inner cove, known by local sailors as S’Olleta, acts as a natural refuge for boats when the wind blows hard. Dropping anchor in S’Olleta is one of the most mystical experiences you can have in Ibiza in 2026: the water is such an intense cobalt blue it seems unreal, and the rock walls wrap around you, creating an echo of absolute peace.

Unlike Es Vedrà, which is a massive, pyramidal block, Es Vedranell is a rocky crest. There is almost no vegetation on its surface due to the extreme salt and wind conditions, giving it a wild, lunar appearance. However, this apparent terrestrial "desolation" is just the surface of an explosion of life both underwater and in the air.

Es Vedrà and Es Vedranell: an inseparable duo

It is impossible to speak of one without mentioning the other. Together, they form one of the most iconic images of the Mediterranean. However, the towering presence of Es Vedrà has caused almost all the legends of UFOs, magnetic energies, and sightings to focus on it, leaving Es Vedranell as a silent observer.

But beware—for experts in the area, Es Vedranell is the key to the landscape balance of the reserve. While Es Vedrà represents strength and myth, Es Vedranell represents biodiversity and refuge. In 2026, excursions circling both islets allow visitors to understand that they are not two separate entities, but a single geological unit separated by just a few meters of sea where currents flow, creating one of the richest ecosystems in the Pitiusas.

A sanctuary of biodiversity in 2026

Being part of a protected Nature Reserve is not just a title; it is a guarantee of protection that has allowed the flora and fauna of Es Vedranell to remain intact. If you are passionate about nature, you will find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this islet:

Life in the crevices: winged fauna

Es Vedranell is one of the primary breeding sites for seabirds and raptors seeking the inaccessibility of its cliffs. Species you can spot with binoculars from a boat include:

• Eleonora's Falcon: A migratory raptor that chooses these crags for nesting.


• Balearic and Cory's Shearwaters: Birds that glide over nearby waters and find a safe haven from predators here.


• European Storm Petrel: One of the most important colonies in the Western Mediterranean is found in this reserve.

The Lilford's wall lizard: a colorful inhabitant

As on other islets near Ibiza and Formentera, Es Vedranell is home to the Podarcis pityusensis (Ibizan wall lizard). Interestingly, due to isolation, these lizards have evolved differently from those on the Ibiza coast, showing unique sizes and colors ranging from yellowish tones to intense blues. It is evolution happening right before your eyes!

Underwater treasures: the coralligenous reefs

Es Vedranell is world-famous in the Ibiza scuba diving scene for its seabeds. The water transparency allows light to penetrate deep, favoring the growth of red gorgonians (Paramuricea clavata) and extensive meadows of Posidonia oceanica. It is not uncommon to see bottlenose dolphins playing in the currents.

How to explore Es Vedranell on your trip to Ibiza

Due to its status as a protected Nature Reserve, landing on the islet is not permitted without prior scientific or administrative authorization. However, this doesn't mean you can't enjoy its majesty. Here are the best ways to experience Es Vedranell in 2026:

1. Boat and catamaran excursions

This is the most comfortable and comprehensive option. Most routes depart from the ports of San Antonio, Playa d'en Bossa, or Figueretas.

• Southwest routes: These boats sail along the coast passing through Cala Tarida and Cala d'Hort before heading toward the islets.


• Anchoring and snorkeling: Many excursions make a technical stop near Es Vedranell so travelers can swim and enjoy snorkeling in crystal clear waters. Visibility here often exceeds 30 meters, providing an authentic immersive experience.


• Magical sunsets: There are specific trips to watch the sunset from the water, right between Es Vedrà and Es Vedranell, often accompanied by relaxing music and a glass of cava.

2. Jet ski adventures

For those seeking a touch of adrenaline, guided jet ski tours are a vibrant way to see Es Vedranell up close. Departing from San Antonio, they allow you to feel the real scale of the island's cliffs from the base. Passing at full speed through the channel separating the two islets is one of the most thrilling sensations you can experience on the west coast.

3. Jeep and 4x4 tours

If you prefer to stay on dry land but want the best views of Es Vedranell island, Jeep tours are ideal. They take you to the highest cliffs on the Ibiza coast, near the Cala d'Hort area, providing an aerial perspective of the horseshoe shape of Es Vedranell.

Why visit Es Vedranell in 2026?

In an Ibiza that increasingly values exclusivity and authentic experiences, Es Vedranell represents the luxury of the unknown. While most people settle for a photo of Es Vedrà from the lookout, getting closer to Es Vedranell means discovering the hidden face of the coin.

It is a place for silence. In 2026, where digital noise is constant, spending an afternoon sailing along its rock walls is a form of disconnection therapy. Furthermore, its geological value as a landscape landmark makes it a point of cultural and natural interest for everyone visiting the island with a conscious eye.

Responsible visiting tips

As visitors, we have a responsibility to conserve this Mediterranean jewel. If you decide to visit Es Vedranell, please keep the following in mind:

• Do not land: Respect the Nature Reserve regulations. The fauna is highly sensitive to human presence.


• Mind the anchoring: If you are on your own boat, ensure you anchor in sandy areas and never over Posidonia oceanica.


• Leave no trace: The islet ecosystem is fragile. Ensure nothing you bring with you ends up in the sea.


• Respect the birds: If you see falcons or shearwaters, maintain a prudent distance and avoid excessive noise that could scare them during the breeding season.

Invisa Hotels: your starting point for the mystery

To explore special corners like Es Vedranell island, you need a "base camp" that combines comfort and a strategic location. At Invisa Hotels, we place our establishments in the best enclaves of Ibiza so you can organize your maritime or land excursions with total ease.

Whether you stay in our San Antonio area to set sail toward the islets, or in the tranquility of Santa Eulalia after a day of 4x4 adventure, Invisa offers you the rest you deserve. Our team will be happy to advise you on the best excursion companies to ensure your encounter with Es Vedrà and Es Vedranell is safe, responsible, and, above all, unforgettable.

Ibiza always keeps one more secret. Es Vedranell is proof that, even next to the most famous monuments in the world, there is always a "little sister" waiting to be discovered by those who look closely.

In 2026, we invite you not to settle for just a distant silhouette. Rent a kayak, join a boat excursion, or simply sit on a cliff to watch how the sunset light slides down the crags of Es Vedranell. You will discover that the magnetism of the area resides not only in the height of its "big brother," but in the untameable peace and virgin beauty of this islet that, although uninhabited, is more alive than ever. See you in paradise!