Festival Club ruins

What makes the Festival Club ruins special

In the hills about 1.5 km north-east of the village of Sant Josep lie the remains of Festival Club. The site is in the municipality of Sant Josep de sa Talaia. Festival Club was a large open-air complex for nights out, shows and dining. Today it’s a crumbling ruin, its walls covered in graffiti and street art.

It’s mainly of interest if you like abandoned buildings, graffiti and photography.

The history of Festival Club

We’ve found few reliable sources on the club’s history. This is what’s usually said about it. Festival Club opened in 1972. The complex was shaped like an amphitheatre, with a stage, a DJ booth, a dance floor, several bars and a restaurant. It also had a bullfighting arena.

It didn’t last long. In 1974 the club had to close again. The oil crisis is given as the reason: it meant fewer tourists came to Ibiza, and so fewer guests came to the club. The business went bankrupt and the complex fell into disrepair.

Getting there and parking

There’s no signposted route or official entrance. Use the pin on the map to find the spot.

It isn’t clear whether the land around the ruins is open to the public. Respect fences, signs and closed roads. Don’t park in front of driveways or on farmland.

Facilities

There are no facilities: no toilets, no water and no lighting. You’ll find restaurants and shops in the village of Sant Josep.

Tips for your visit

• Go in daylight. In the dark you won’t see holes, rubble and sharp edges.
• Wear closed shoes with sturdy soles.
• Bring water; there’s nothing to buy on site.
• Leave the graffiti and street art as they are, and take your rubbish with you.