Discover the Charming Farm Animals of Can Frare Ibiza

At Can Frare Ibiza, the soul of our estate is found not just within the thick stone walls of our 300 year old finca, but in the vibrant life that wanders through the ancient terraces below. As a luxury villa and finca that has remained in the same family for generations, we take immense pride in preserving the agricultural heartbeat of the island. Beyond the infinity pool and the panoramic views of San Antonio Bay lies a traditional way of life that we love to share with our guests. In this post, we invite you to meet our resident farm animals, our cherished pets who bring a unique, rustic warmth to the Can Frare Ibiza experience. From our family of Shetland ponies to our vocal guardians, the geese, these animals are a vital part of what makes our hillside sanctuary so special. Understanding the local wildlife and heritage of the estate provides our guests with a deeper connection to the island, making your stay both meaningful and memorable.

A Family of Gentle Shetland Ponies on the Hillside

Perhaps the most beloved residents of our historic farmland are our four Shetland ponies. They spend their days grazing across the sun-drenched, terraced hillsides, framed by the very dry stone walls that our ancestors built by hand centuries ago. This landscape is a testament to the heritage of Ibiza, where every stone tells a story of rural perseverance.

Our small herd is a true family affair. There is Clara, our pure white beauty, and Ghandi, the grey boy who completes the pair. They are joined by their two daughters: the dark brown Angelina and the youngest of the group, a little foal named Siena. We chose her name specifically to match her beautiful, earth-toned coat.

Meeting the ponies is often a highlight for families staying at the villa. We are always happy to introduce you to them under supervision, and they are incredibly friendly once they know a treat is involved. A simple carrot or a slice of apple is the quickest way to their hearts. We find that our guests, both young and old, quickly fall in love with their gentle nature and distinct personalities. Each pony has a unique character that adds to the charm of the estate.

A Heartwarming Story of Peggy our Rescued Pot Belly Pig

Every animal at Can Frare has a story, but perhaps none is as poignant as that of Peggy, our Vietnamese pot belly pig. Today, Peggy spends her days roaming the sun-drenched terraces of our luxury villa and finca, but her beginnings were far removed from the rolling hillsides of the Ibiza countryside.

Peggy’s journey to Can Frare began as a rescue mission. She was discovered living on a small balcony in the town of San Antonio, the victim of a common misunderstanding. Her previous owners had been told she was a dwarf piglet, a breed that would stay small enough for apartment living. However, as Peggy grew, it became clear she was no miniature pet, but rather a full grown pig destined to reach a sturdy 100 kilos. Realising that a balcony was no place for a creature of her size and spirit, her owners sought a better life for her.

When Peggy arrived at Can Frare Ibiza, she finally found the space she deserved. Seeing her transition from a confined urban space to the freedom of our 12 hectare estate has been a joy for our family. She has lived her best life as a free range resident for many years now, and her presence is a testament to the sanctuary environment we strive to maintain on the farm.

The Protective Family of Can Frare Geese

As you wander further down the hillside, you will likely hear our gaggle of geese before you see them. While they are very much cherished pets, they also serve a practical purpose on the farm, acting as a superb natural alarm system. The geese are a remarkably tight knit family. They are rarely seen apart, moving together in a protective huddle and keeping a watchful eye over the lower farmland. Their vocal nature is part of their charm, providing a soundtrack of traditional rural life that contrasts beautifully with the quiet luxury of the villa suites above.

Fresh Organic Eggs from our Happy Chickens

Finally, we have our small flock of chickens. These birds are remarkable creatures to observe, with their intricate feather markings and busy, curious characters. They live a healthy, outdoor life on the estate, and in return, they provide us with an abundance of fresh eggs like clockwork. For guests staying at Can Frare Ibiza, there is something deeply satisfying about knowing exactly where your morning breakfast comes from. These chickens are a small but significant link to the Ibiza of the past, when the inhabitants of the finca forged their entire livelihood directly from this fertile, terraced land.

Reflecting on the Rural Heart of Ibiza

We believe that these interactions with nature and our friendly pets add a layer of soul to your holiday that is hard to find elsewhere on the island. Meeting and feeding the farm animals is great fun for children, and we are always delighted to come in person to make those first introductions. This connection to the land is a core part of the luxury experience we offer, providing a sense of peace and groundedness that stays with you long after you leave. If you are interested in learning more about the history of our 12 hectare estate, we recommend reading our post on The Story Behind Can Frare’s Ancient Walls. This provides further insight into the architecture and landscape that our animals call home. We look forward to welcoming you to the finca and introducing you to Clara, Peggy, and the rest of the family. Whether you are seeking a quiet retreat or a joyful family gathering, the animals of Can Frare are ready to make your Ibiza experience truly unforgettable.