ES CAVALLET

The most idyllic gay beach in Europe is located at the far end of Playa des Cavallet, on the southernmost tip of Ibiza. With a clean, clear stretch of Mediterranean sea and sand, no crowds of breeding heterosexuals, and the added benefit of a gay beach bar playing tranquil sounds throughout the day. Es Cavallet really is the nearest thing to a gay paradise this side of Tracy Island!

Considered a trek by some, the trip is invariably worthwhile (unlike many of Europe's other 'gay' beaches), as there is plenty to keep you occupied when you reach your destination.

One of the biggest draws is the beach bar and restaurant, Chiringay (taking its' name from 'chiringuito', the Spanish for beach bar), which has a wide-variety of fresh dishes on offer throughout the day, every day, and a separate juice bar if you want to appear to be refreshingly healthy for an hour or two.

The only drawback is the popularity of the beach bar. The busier it is, the slower the service. Given the number of tables, they could do to employ more staff during the day, particularly at the height of the season.

Bodies come in all shapes and sizes, nobody being fussed whether you strip off naked, or spend the day wrapped up head-to-foot beneath an umbrella. With calm seas, the shallow waters are perfect for experienced and inexperienced swimmers alike. If you value your privacy, or just want an all-over tan without exposing your privates in public, there are plenty of little coves and quiet corners with you in mind. The rocks at the far end of the beach are great for snorkelling and watching the little fishies (or just swim out from here, and watch the wildlife shagging in their private little coves).

Also on offer at Chiringay are showers and masseurs, toilets, a beach shop (selling sarongs, jewellery, etc.), plus the inevitable parasol and sunbed hire. If you want a sunbed, try to get there relatively early during the height of the summer, as these tend to be in short supply by lunchtime. You could also try tipping the sunbed guy, he does remember you, and often knows where to put his hands on the occasional bed.

There are car parks at the northern (straight) end of Es Cavallet beach, and a much-larger one to the west, near the Las Salinas bus stop. Whichever you choose, expect a twenty-minute walk to the gay beach, the most tranquil being through the pine groves from the larger car park.

From the Es Cavallet car park, follow the coast (with the sea to the left) until you get to the rainbow flag flying above Chiringay. From the Las Salinas car park, head to the southernmost corner of the car park (usually the furthest point from where you've parked, unless you get there early), and follow the dirt road, which winds its' way down to the gay beach. You'll eventually spot the rainbow flag, as you get closer.

A straight-line through the pine woods is quicker, and more sheltered from the sun, but this well-beaten path is best found by following or asking someone who knows where they are going (there will be no shortage of willing gay men heading down to the beach, and they'll probably give you directions as well).

During the height of the season, the car parks tend to get very, very busy, so either get there early, or take the bus. Aside from being cheap (150 ptas to Ibiza Town), taking the bus means you and your friends can share a few sangrias when you're down on the beach (just don't overdo it in the sun).

You also get to find out what 75 hot, sweaty men, crammed into a tiny airless space, really smell like (outside the backrooms)...

Make Es Cavallet and Chiringay high on your list of wanton priorities when you go to Ibiza, and you'll inevitably go back for more...

Martin
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