Why move to Sant Josep de sa Talaia
For a taste of traditional Balearic village life, Sant Josep is hard to beat. A vibrant social scene, superb shops and fabulous restaurants make this a great alternative to the coastal towns.
There is another Ibiza, one you will find away from the island’s busy beaches and nightclubs, a place where life goes on much as it has for the past several 100 years. One such place is Sant Josep de sa Talaia, also known as San Josep. An inland village in the shadows of Ibiza’s tallest mountain, with stupendous views across three sides of the most magical of the Balearic Islands.
Sant Josep might not have many of the distractions that the island is famous for but it more than makes up for that with charm and atmosphere. Wake to the sound of bells pealing from the 18th century church, then take a leisurely stroll past whitewashed houses to sit among the old men drinking their daily brandy and putting the world to rights. In the summer months you can visit one of the numerous bars and listen to live music late into the night. Truly, life here moves to a different beat.
Community
The village has around 2,500 inhabitants although you will find many more in the properties in the surrounding hills and countryside. Sant Josep has a largely Spanish population but attracts many expats who love it precisely for that reason.
Property
This is a much sought after location and the prices reflect that fact. In the village you will find a mixture of townhouses and apartments, many with beautiful views. The surrounding countryside is where you will find larger properties, from traditional rural farmhouses to modern luxury villas.
Amenities
Along with a couple of supermarkets there are a variety of interesting shops and boutiques selling clothes, ceramics, toys and assorted lovely things. If you want your food fresh, visit the fishmonger, butcher or one of the village patisseries. Saturday is market day and your chance to buy local, organic food alongside arts and crafts by local producers.
Transport
Although you might feel away from the crowds here, Sant Josep it is just 15 minutes from the major centres of Ibiza Town and San Antonio, with the airport a 10 minute drive. Public transport is reliable with buses regularly taking you to the surrounding villages and coastal areas.
Employment
This is a small village, so what work there is will be found in the bars and restaurants. However, you are within easy commute of Ibiza town where there are many more opportunities, particularly in the summer months.
Health
The village has its own public medical centre as well as a pharmacy. For anything more serious the nearest hospitals can be found in nearby Ibiza Town.
Schools
A state primary school can be found in the village, with secondary education in the neighbouring town of San Agustin. There is also an International School in the middle of the island if you want to follow the UK national curriculum.
Cost of Living
Prices tend to be a little higher than the Spanish national average in Sant Josep, particularly if you are shopping locally, so make sure you factor these costs in when planning a move.