Long tarred with the 18-30s brush, Ibiza is now all grown up. Foodie-magnet restaurants, luxury yachts and boutique beach retreats have taken the place of eat, sleep, rave, repeat’. You’ll still find frenetic, all-night clubs if you go looking, but it’s just as possible to party with a cosmopolitan, chilled-out crowd.
Here are four reasons why it’s time to put the White Isle on your must-visit list:
While all-night clubbers sleep, mornings are made for getting a fresh perspective on island culture. Ibiza Old Town is known as Dalt Vila – meaning upper town – and wrapped in defensive walls. Those with a head for heights can walk the whole way round the ramparts, stopping to snap photos of the incredible views. It’s also worth popping back at dusk when the walls seem to glow with a warm light. Near the highest point in Dalt Vila, the cathedral is another impressive place to wander.
Below ground, the coastline is honeycombed with caves once used by pirates. Ancient Cova de Can Marçà on the northern side are atmospherically lit, making them a worthwhile stop. While you’re in the north, you’ll have your pick of ice-white sand and turquoise seas – Cala d’en Serra being a notable beach beauty. Make your way across to the east too, past pine forests, to discover serene spots such as petite Cala Mastella and its neighbour Cala Boix.
Forget images of full English breakfasts and beachside burgers – Ibiza’s eclectic dining scene will be music for foodies’ ears. Chic beach clubs let you linger over creative cuisine and cocktails, with DJs setting the right tone later on.
Boating is one of the best ways to see more of the White Isle. But it doesn’t have to involve loading up with lagers and bobbing just out to sea with a group of total strangers. You can charter speedboats and even luxury yachts from places such as Ibiza Town and Cap Martinet. Bring parasols and towels from your boutique Ibiza hotel and drop anchor in castaway coves such as often deserted Cala Xuclar or uninhabited S’Espalmador island.
Beach club culture is big in Ibiza, especially with grown-ups seeking the spirit of White Isle nightlife without the mega-club experience. They’re elegant, cool places to relax by day and stylish places to hang out after dark. The largest even play host to global DJ stars – making them more in tune with the Coachella than the clubbing crowd. Beachouse (in summer) and Cotton Beach Club are favourites with the more discerning – while Ibiza Bay is set to become a major part of the scene.
To be connected to Ibiza’s dawn to dusk (and dusk to dawn) favourites, base yourself in boutique Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay.
For more adult getaways, read about Phuket’s best beaches, away from the backpacking crowd and Thai island hopping for grown-ups.
