Ibiza is an island with two distinct sides to its personality. While many may know it for its clubs, bars, and parties, these are just one aspect of this beautiful destination. Legend has it that the red soil here has magical properties, and it is true that no creature or plant that can hurt a human can survive here. Many people still wear amulets containing this ‘magical’ earth as protection from harm. ‘Tranquilo’, a popular Ibicenco word means ‘finding inner peace in harmony with nature’ and peace and harmony are just two of the many things Ibiza has to offer.
In the summer months Ibiza is all about the parties. June sees the opening events at the famous clubs in the three party resorts of Ibiza Town, Playa d’en Bossa and San Antonio. Playa d’en Bossa is home to Ushuaia, one of the most famous venues on the island. Renowned for its spectacular stage production and daytime partying, this must-visit club opens around 3-5pm and closes at midnight. Sankeys, also in Playa d’en Bossa is a must for lovers of underground music. With three rooms, including the famous basement, and plenty of nights to choose from, Sankeys is another club to add to your Ibiza bucket list.
While beaches in the main party resorts may be pulsing with life, it’s possible to find your own hideaway spot along the coasts of this beautiful island. One very exclusive beach at Cap d’es Jueu can only be reached by swimming over 1.5km, so is not for the faint hearted. However, if you are a fit and confident swimmer, on a calm day you will be rewarded with a sun-washed basin in the rocks with access to a nearby grotto. The grotto is water filled, and a shaft of sunlight reaching through the rocky ceiling adds a magical atmosphere to this prize spot.
Although the labyrinthine old town of Dalt Vila is special at any time of year, if you are visiting Ibiza during early May, then a trip to the medieval festival, held each year, is a must. The walled town is transported back in time, with fabric banners fluttering over jousts, hog roasts and falconry displays. You can get a taste of the rich history of the region, too, as you experience artisans using skills from yesteryear to create beautiful artifacts that are perfect as special souvenirs.
By October most of the clubbing crowds have headed for home, and Ibiza becomes a much quieter place. The sea at this time of year, however, is warmer than it was during May and June, making October the perfect month to go wild in the water. There are over 200km of spectacular coastline to explore here, and diving will add another dimension to your holiday experience. If you already have some diving credentials then you may be able to visit the wreck of the 140m merchant ship, Don Pedro, which sunk after colliding with the small island of Es Dau Gros a decade ago.
Ibiza has accommodation as varied as there are things to see and do. If award-winning pure indulgence sounds like something you might enjoy, then The Giri Residence is for you. This exquisite boutique hotel, tucked away in the heart of San Joan, offers just five chic and unique luxury suites, and has seven staff available each day, meaning that you get the very best of individual attention. There are beautiful bathrooms with complimentary REN cosmetics, along with a spa, offering beauty treatments, massage, rituals and meditation. The lush private garden offers lounge beds and a medium sized pool, along with gazebos offering a haven of personal space, making this a top luxury romantic getaway.
While Ibiza does have its quieter side, if partying is what you are travelling for, then San Antonio, on the west coast, is a great choice of places to stay. With ferry rides to stunning coves during the day, jaw-dropping sunsets in the evening and long nights of partying to the soundtrack of world-class DJ sets, it’s likely that you won’t be spending much time back at your accommodation. For an economical place to crash, Central Park Apartments is ideal. The spacious studios on offer here all have balconies, and some have air-conditioning. The fridge and electric hob in your room’s kitchenette allow you to be as self sufficient as you like, any time of the day or night, before you head out to be a part of the night-life on the famous Sunset Strip.
On the east coast, the adults only Sol Beach House, only 300m from Santa Eulalia Harbour (home to opulent private yachts), benefits from a quiet yet convenient position. From here you can experience both sides of this beautiful island’s identity. During the summer months a party bus drives by, connecting you directly to the clubs and parties of nearby Ibiza Town and shopping at Punta Arabi and Las Dalias famous hippy markets is also easy by public transport. A pleasant stroll to the white sandy beaches of Santa Eulalia takes you past a generous selection of shops, bars and restaurants. The hotel was totally redesigned in 2015 and offers two pools, bar, spa and ‘Zen room’ facilities.
Whatever you need from a summer or winter getaway, Ibiza is sure to be able to provide it, so go for it; now is the time to start planning your very own, highly recommended, visit.