"It’s a few years since I was last in Ibiza. But a recent spate of new hotels and celebrity visits made me curious to see what all the fuss was about. So I hired a car, took in as much as I could and got to see what really makes the White Isle tick...

​First stop was Sant Josep de sa Talaia and the 7Pines Kempinski Ibiza.

 Wow! This place makes quite a first impression! Named after the sweet-smelling trees around it, the location simply takes your breath away with its clifftop views. It's one of those places that makes you feel like you're a million miles from anywhere – even though you're not – so spacious, with acres of gardens and the relaxed feel of a retreat. 

Fitness and wellness are the focus here, and Pure 7’s one of the best spas I’ve seen in some time; it’s huge, with all my favourite ESPA products, not to mention some of the latest kit (VR 3D flying machines anyone? They’re great for your core!). I found THE best spot for yoga, and if you’re into running or hiking there are some great trails with fabulous views.

The resort's really cleverly laid out – you'd certainly never think there were 186 suites – and the rooms and décor are very impressive.

My favourite place though was by the pool for a lazy lunch. Now I've seen a few pools in my time, and this one's right up there; apparently it's one of the most Instagrammed lately, and I can see why!

If you like the beach, 7Pines may not be for you as it's a ten-minute walk away; however I can wholly recommend the Ashram Beach Club. Something about it reminded me of a Flintstones cartoon, but boy what a sunset, complete with typical chill-out music and simple yet tasty food…perfect!

My hot tip? Download the hotel app when you arrive – that way you'll be up to speed on all that's happening, and can easily book restaurants or arrange spa treatments.

​Once my hire car arrived (quickly and easily arranged by 7Pines), it was time to head out and explore.

Heading for San Miguel, we swept past a few lovely sandy coves before reaching the iconic Hacienda Na Xamena. Now THIS is how I remember Ibiza… all bohemian, boutique rustic charm with its famous cascading pools. 

And while it may lack the polish of other hotels on the island, it more than makes up for it with its tranquillity and fabulous clifftop views.

On to Santa Eulalia del Río, a town with a real buzz about it thanks to the many restaurants, shops and bars.

​Here you can’t really go wrong with Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe. Fresh from a huge renovation, at first it feels a little overwhelming like many other big hotels – but once inside it’s so different, with plush new rooms (always request a sea or marina view), an incredible rooftop bar and pool area and a lovely vibe overall. 

We had an amazing lunch in Alabastro (the beetroot hummus and black nachos starter is to die for) and we loved the nearby Amante Beach Club with its movie nights, great food and yoga!

​Next up? Talamanca to see the much-lauded Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay.

It’s not often I’m stopped in my tracks, but looking through the lobby and out to the pool I absolutely was on this occasion! It feels like the epicentre of Ibiza life, sexy, contemporary, chic and glamorous. Days are spent chilling by the pool sipping the signature Ibiza Bay Fizz (a blend of gin, local figs, lemon, lime and tangerine foam), while by night the bar is buzzing, you’re close enough to head out and party, and coming back feels just like coming home. 

I really loved it here and when I return I want the same suite: overlooking the old town, with sunsets you just wouldn’t believe. But what I particularly enjoyed was the cuisine. All in all the whole Nobu experience was incredible – unpretentious and way more relaxed than I’d expected. Needless to say, booking ahead is essential, so don’t miss out.

Of course Ibiza wouldn’t be Ibiza without a visit to the old town with its awesome shopping and people-watching opportunities.

​But for something different, book into the Hard Rock Hotel’s Sublimotion. The world’s most expensive restaurant, it’s more gastronomic performance than meal where, as you begin the 20-course tasting-menu by two-Michelin-starred chef Paco Roncero, the 12-seated table literally becomes the stage and you enter a surreal, fantasy world. A totally mind-blowing experience that gives a whole new meaning to bringing food to life! 

Stay at the Ibiza Gran Hotel – perfect if you want to be at the very heart of it all with clubs right on your doorstep. After Nobu this place really surprised me with its unbeatable location and nightlife. And with its stunning art collection, casino, views to Dalt Vila and the awesome, multi-sensorial ‘Heart’, where food, music and art collide, you really can’t go wrong.

​Returning to Ibiza – a place where anything goes – after such a long time was fantastic.

A phrase I heard a lot was ‘hippy posh’ which I couldn’t help but think sums the island up perfectly. Beach clubs, fabulous spas, cool bars and clubs, out-of-this- world dining… there’s something for everyone here. I’ll be back... and a lot sooner next time!” 

Find Out More...

  • 7Pines Ibiza Sant Josep de sa Talaia, Ibiza

    Unadulterated Ibizan luxury embraced by gorgeous terrain – this all-suite resort definitely bagged one of Ibiza's best spots: its clifftop perch edged by a pine forest, with eye-popping views over to the magical rock island of Es Vedrà.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • Hacienda Na Xamena San Miguel, Ibiza

    An ivy-covered clifftop gem with a hefty dose of old-school bohemian-style Ibiza, this adorable family-run property is the island’s original five-star hotel (and one of its most romantic).

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Santa Eulària des Riu, Ibiza

    Popular with 30-somethings looking to chill (children are welcome too), with a peaceful marina setting, spectacular views over to neighbouring Formentera and über-cool luxury amenities.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay Talamanca Bay, Ibiza

    On the white sandy beaches of Talamanca Bay, this sophisticated, fun-loving beach retreat serves up a host of sexy, immersive and fun experiences, plus innovative culinary options, and creations inspired by Ibiza itself.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • Ibiza Gran Hotel Talamanca Bay, Ibiza

    Ibiza’s only five-star all-suite hotel in the hip seaside enclave of Marina Botafoch allows for stunning views across to Dalt Vila; while an amazing art collection brings an avant-garde vibe to the complex.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • Ca Na Xica Sant Miquel de Balansat, Ibiza

    Sun-soaked serenity amidst 1000-year-old olive groves and bountiful orchards. That's Ca Na Xica – a beautifully rural retreat with a superb spa; tranquil pool; and an alfresco restaurant that feels like a destination in its own right.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • W Ibiza Santa Eulària des Riu, Ibiza

    If ever a hotel brand was made for the White Isle, it’s W. And this sassy, seasonal escape, striking a pose on the palm-fringed, sand-drenched Santa Eulalia beachfront, doesn’t disappoint.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • 105 Suites Ibiza @ Marina Magna Talamanca Bay, Ibiza

    This new Riviera-style dining destination in the heart of Ibiza’s old town, serves up the same je ne sais quoi of style, flavours and class as its late Parisian cousin, plus a handful of super-chic, easy, breezy pieds-à-terre.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property
  • La Granja Buscatell, Ibiza

    More in keeping with Ibiza’s 50s and 60s hippy scene than the perpetual partying of the present day, this members-only enclave (a unique project by Design Hotels) offers pared-down relaxation and rustic simplicity.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property

Request a call back

Or get in touch 01244 567000