Ibiza holds a rich and complex history that has shaped its identity over the decades. Now, a new TV series, La Ruta. Vol. 2: Ibiza, is set to take audiences on a journey through some of the island’s most pivotal moments, from the early 1970s to the height of its nightlife industry in the 1990s. This upcoming series, a follow-up to La Ruta, will showcase Ibiza’s transformation through the eyes of one family, intertwining personal stories with real historical events.
A series rooted in real events
Produced by Atresmedia Televisión in collaboration with Caballo Films, the second season of La Ruta follows in the footsteps of its critically acclaimed predecessor. The production won multiple awards, including the prestigious Ondas Award for Best Drama Series in 2023, as well as three Feroz Awards, further cementing its place as one of the most compelling Spanish dramas in recent years.
The second season, consisting of six episodes, will take viewers back to two key time periods in the island’s history. Filming has already begun across the Valencian Community and the Balearic Islands, ensuring an authentic backdrop for the unfolding narrative.
Two timelines, one story
The show introduces us to Marc Ribó, a DJ who, in 1996, is a resident at Amnesia, one of Ibiza’s most famous nightclubs. This is a time when the island is on the verge of becoming the world’s clubbing capital, as British promoters start bringing their events. However, this influx of international influence creates tensions, with local DJs struggling to maintain their identity in an industry that is rapidly evolving.
Parallelly, the story takes us back to 1971, following the lives of Marc’s parents when the island was still an oasis of freedom during Spain’s Francoist era. The narrative culminates in a tragic event that forever changes Marc’s life—the 1972 Caravelle plane crash at Ses Roques Altes. This devastating accident, which took the lives of all 104 passengers aboard, serves as a historical anchor in the series, shaping the destiny of the Ribó family and providing a poignant connection between the island’s past and present.
Ibiza in the 1970s: a countercultural refuge
For potential visitors, the series offers a deeper understanding of the island’s history beyond its beaches and nightlife. The 1970s were a transformative time for Ibiza, as it became a sanctuary for artists, musicians, and free-spirited travellers escaping rigid societal norms. At the time, the island was still relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering a unique atmosphere of creativity and self-expression.
This setting provides a stark contrast to the fast-paced, money-driven nightlife industry that emerged in the 1990s. By weaving these two eras together, the series captures the essence of the island’s evolution, showing how it transformed from a quiet bohemian paradise into the ultimate destination for clubbing and electronic music.
The cast and production
The role of Marc Ribó is played by Álex Monner, who also portrays his father, Manuel Ribó, in the 1970s timeline. This dual performance adds a unique layer to the storytelling, highlighting the generational parallels that the series explores.
The cast also includes Carla Díaz, Marina Salas, and Irene Escolar, along with Lucía Martín-Abelló and Fernando Delgado-Hierro. Additionally, Claudia Salas, Ricardo Gómez, and Elisabet Casanovas will return to reprise their roles from the first season, appearing in key episodes of the new instalment.
Why this series matters for tourists
For those planning a visit, watching La Ruta before their trip can enhance their appreciation of the island’s heritage. The series does more than entertain—it educates viewers on the cultural shifts that have shaped this place into what it is today. Understanding the impact of events like the Caravelle crash or the rise of British promoters in the 1990s provides a new perspective on the places they might visit.
Travellers who want to explore the island beyond its clubs can visit historic sites, such as the remnants of its 1970s hippie movement at Las Dalias market or discover landmarks tied to the island’s history. Whether it’s tracing the origins of its famous nightlife or experiencing its natural beauty, the island has a story to tell—and this series helps bring it to life.
Looking ahead
With filming already underway, the series is set to capture the essence of the island’s transformation over two decades. By focusing on personal stories within real historical contexts, the series will offer a gripping and emotional experience for viewers while also serving as a window into Ibiza’s past.
For those who have yet to visit the island, or for those who already love it, this series will provide a new layer of appreciation for its cultural and historical depth. As anticipation builds for its release, one thing is clear—the island’s story is far more than just music and parties, and this production is set to prove just that.
