Take five on five Spanish isles

There's nothing like spending a while next to an isle, is there? Our five are pretty accessible, located within walking distance of the mainland or at the very most a none-too-taxing boat ride away. So, which of them do you fancy conquering first?

Gaztelugatxe

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Pais Vasco

Cross the stone bridge from the Basque Country mainland, climb 237 steps to reach the hermitage at the top of the hill, and then ring the bell three times. You're now free to make your wish. This dramatically-set refuge is dedicated to John the Baptist and attracts many 21st-century pilgrims, especially in summer months.

After your exertions, you might want to spend some time chilling in the local fishing port of Bermeo. As well as lots of excellent seafood restaurants, visit the Ercilla tower. This is a museum which gives an excellent overview of the importance of the maritime industry to the local community.

Sa Conillera

Ibiza - Sa Conillera (Conejera island)

Head to the north west of Ibiza if you want to catch a glimpse of this illa, measuring all of 7.30km2. It has a lighthouse but is uninhabited. Off its south shore, you'll find Bosc islet. Boat trips run to Conillera from the port at San Antonio, taking around an hour to reach it.

Es Vedra

Ibiza - Es Vedra island

Check out postcards in Ibiza souvenir shops and you can bank on there being piles and piles with the iconic image of Es Vedra. Close to the idyllic beach of Cala d'Hort in the island's south west, you're actually able to see this proud rock from a number of different locations on Ibiza. There are so many myths swirling around Es Vedra, from Atlantis to UFOs, that it was a natural fit for it to appear as mystical Bali Hai in South Pacific.

Los Puercos

formentera, Isla de Los Puercos

To the west of the island of Formentera, heading in the direction of Ibiza, you'll come across another uninhabited isle with a lighthouse. Indeed, you'll get a good shot of it as you approach and, indeed, depart Formentera. Also it would be a great vantage point to watch sailing competitions as boats whizz between here and the neighbouring isle of Ahorcados.

Bosc

Ibiza - Illa del Bosque island

The Illa des Bosc is a minute, uninhabited island off the north-west coast of Ibiza. Belonging to the municipality of Sant Josep de sa Talaia, it's due north of the beach of Cala Conte where there is in fact a restaurant called S'illa de Bosc. This eatery's perfectly located to enjoy Ibiza's trademark sunset.