Until a few years ago, much like many others it seems, my perception of Ibiza was somewhat misguided. I had always avoided it, picturing it as a nonstop party island where I would be dodging boozed-up Brits on every corner. Spoiler alert; I’ve since done a total 180 and if you are anything like former me, I hope this piece can help you do the same.
It’s often a particular hotel I find that lures me to a place, which is how I first ended up in Ibiza back in September 2021. In one of my more-often-than-I’d-like-to-admit Instagram holes, I found myself ogling a beautiful farmhouse in the Northern part of the island. Fast forward a month or so and there I was; on a rural farm surrounded by nothing but the hum of cicadas and the clearest sky of stars overhead. It’s true what they say —there's just something about Ibiza.
There’s a holiday for everyone on this Balearic bolthole with its rugged natural beauty, vibrant food scene, woo-woo offerings and of course, world-famous nightlife. You can have every type of holiday, sometimes in just a single day. One thing I will caveat upfront is that I’ve made all my four visits in the ‘shoulder’ months of April, May, September and October where the temperatures are a balmy mid-20s and it’s not overrun with holidaymakers. I imagine this is one way of avoiding the sleuths of aforementioned partygoers.
Ibiza’s diverse regions each offer something unique – the island is best explored by car or taxi, with most destinations being 20-40 minutes drive apart. The North is known for its rustic charm, more secluded beaches and slower pace of life. In the centre, Santa Gertrudis, often known as the Notting Hill of Ibiza, is ideal for a wander with its picture-perfect stores such as Atelier No.74 and a matcha in-hand from Wild Beets. The vibrant Old Town, with its historic walls, makes for a beautiful stroll, pit-stopping for a rooftop drink at The Standard or the boutique hotel Montesol Experimental before dinner at Los Olivos, should you be lucky enough to get a table. Don't miss some post-cocktail shopping at the infamous Annie’s Ibiza.
In the south, the rock of Es Vedra provides a majestic view and magnetic pull; stay at Petunia, recently renovated by the French hotel group Beaumier for ultimate proximity. If you’re up for a short adventure, the island of Formentera is just an hour ferry from the Old Town. Yacht charters are, of course, also an option. There is a totally different feel here —much more raw and undeveloped. For lunch, visit Beso Beach, Casa Pacha, or Es Còdol Foradet, and enjoy sundowners at one of the local beach shacks. For an extended visit, consider staying at Teranka.
Ibiza is truly a haven for food lovers. If you're looking to lean into the Ibiza scene then the beach clubs Jondal and El Silencio are top of my list. The people watching is as good as the hot bread with aioli. For a more authentic experience, Restaurante Cala Xarraca and Cala Gracioneta are perfect, with the latter just around the cove from OKU hotel, which boasts incredible food as well. Just outside Ibiza Old Town, I’ve had incredible meals at Laylah and Casa Maca.
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In the north of the island, Los Enamorados offers stunning sunsets and playful decor, while Italian restaurant Café Macao, frequented by the likes of Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, is the epitome of low-key cool in Santa Gertrudis. For a farm-to-table experience, Junto’s House and La Paloma are meant to be wonderful, although I’m yet to visit. Similarly, I’d also like to visit Sa Capella, housed inside an old church, Hambre for natural wines and Nudo for the atmosphere.
Some of my favourite dining experiences have been at farmhouse hotels, which are my preference accommodation-wise on the island. My sweet-spot when it comes to hotels are those that are design-led, boutique in size and with a real focus on food. Finca Can Marti is the one that first drew me to Ibiza and I’ve returned a couple of times since, thanks to its abundant charm. It’s been on the island for many years and is certainly rustic in every sense of the word. There are donkeys roaming, a quaint honesty-led farmshop and a natural pool shared with some local frogs. It feels totally remote, but really the world of Ibiza is just a short, bumpy drive away. Outside guests can come along to enjoy their Farm dinners, arranged in advance.
Newly opened Aguamadera is top of my list to stay next time. It is more elevated and design-focused, perched on a hill with stunning views and a peaceful pool. It’s more of a traditional hotel with a wide menu available daily. For those seeking somewhere more sophisticated, my preference is Six Senses for a dose of luxury. Situated at the top of the island, it offers unbeatable wellness options, an infinity pool, and a beach club set into the rocks.
On the note of wellness, Ibiza is renowned for its offerings in this space. Frederika Van Hagen of SAENT Skin is the maestro of facials that are worth the trip to Ibiza alone. For Tarot readings, Elaine Mary Collins is my go-to; she also offers readings over Zoom if you can't make it to the island. I've done both and always leave feeling buoyed. I’ve attended yoga teacher Ruben De Monte’s retreats twice, held at the beautiful Villa Can Tiki, which are an annual highlight. Wydler Retreats are also on my wishlist. Ibiza Hike Station is perfect for guided hikes, but if you’re particularly adventurous, try hiking down to Cala Xucular—just be cautious, as it can be a bit tricky, and watch out for jellyfish if you do decide to cool off with a dip. An afternoon spent on one of the Bohemian Boats is penciled in for my next Ibizan adventure.
I couldn’t talk about Ibiza and not mention the nightlife. Despite visiting in the quieter months, there’s always somewhere you can find a party. Pikes – a boutique hotel with a party offering – is my go-to for a boogie. It's free to enter; just make sure to get on their guest list, which opens two weeks prior.
Whatever you are looking for in your next trip, I have a feeling Ibiza might have the answer.
