This time last year I had just returned from a week in Ibiza , feeling very lucky to have been there given the changing travel restrictions, but we made it despite the endless testing and paperwork!
I’ve discovered Ibiza a bit later on in life, but not for the party scene. No, I’ve discovered it for the laid back island vibe, the gorgeous beaches and coves, wonderful restaurants and just a sense of serenity that I am sure many other people love it for too.
A retreat in 2018 sparked the love, swiftly followed by a holiday there that year to explore more and again last year and to be honest I would happily jump on a plane and go back there this year (but I’m not). On those two holidays we got into a groove. Island life being a mix of jumping in the car to explore a beach, lazy hours reading by the pool, massages under the trees and wonderful meals. There’s no glitz or glamour, all day pool parties, or clubbing into the early hours. It actually feels pretty rustic and charming with just a little bit of cool thrown in.
So if you are thinking of going, or heading off there this summer, here's a rundown of my kind of Ibiza holiday.
Where we stay
We have discovered the small, rustic and wonderfully run Can Planells in Saint Miquel in the north of the island. A 30 minute drive from the airport you arrive at Can Planells, a family run Agrotourism hotel that feels very homely. Welcomed by Joan you will soon discover why this place is so special and has attracted so many wonderful reviews and return visitors.
With only 8 rooms it is perfect if like us you like the peace and quiet. The rooms are charming, spacious and well-appointed with a variety of different room options . Last year we stayed in one of their Superior Suites with a living room, bedroom, bathroom, patio off the bedroom and a roof terrace which provided lovely views over the valley and a pretty nice spot to do some morning yoga (which I got into the habit of doing before breakfast each morning).
Breakfast at Can Planells is pretty special as a lot of what they offer is grown on the farm. My favourite is their pan con tomate with avocado, made with their own tomatoes and avocado of course. But you can have granola, pastries, eggs, sausages, bacon, cheeses and there is always something sweet on offer too. We start it off with a freshly squeezed orange juice from the farm oranges and savour the slower morning under the trees.
Afternoons by the pool bring a new every day ritual in the form of homemade lemonade that Joan comes and serves to you on your lounger. It really is a lovely treat and we tried to make sure we are back from exploring in time to enjoy it.
A couple of afternoons a week a masseuse comes to the hotel and you can enjoy a massage in the cool of the fig tree near the pool. It was one of the best massages I’ve ever had and just added to the magic of the place.
A few logistical things
You really you do need to have a car to get to local provisions such as a supermarket and restaurants, as whilst the village isn’t far away the hotel is in the countryside.
They don’t offer any lunch options but they are very helpful and will give you plates and cutlery if like us you want to go and buy some things from the local supermarket. There is a fridge in your room to keep things cool and you can eat under the trees at the breakfast terrace.
They have an honesty bar if you want to grab a drink when you return in the evening, but options are limited. So just stock up at the supermarket and pop in your fridge.
Where to eat
There are so many fabulous places to eat on the island, you really are spoilt for choice. There are still so many places on my list that I want to go to, but a few of our favourites so far include;
Giri Cafe in San Joan has to be top of my picks for places to eat. Nestled within the walls of a 300 year old townhouse it opens onto a dreamy, sun-drenched garden which feels truly magical. Their philosophy is simple, to eat seasonably, locally and sustainably so expect a menu that reflects that.
Cotton Beach Club is a favourite with the teenagers as it's a bit more lively. Overlooking the sea, it’s set in a pretty idyllic spot. Enjoy a sundowner on the steps before having dinner. It’s décor is white with natural elements and is very beach cool. It also has its own little lifestyle shop too so you can have a mooch.
Aubergine by Atzara near Santa Gertrudis is another favourite. Think country chic, farm to table style dining. . Dine under the olive trees in their relaxed garden terrace, have a look in their onsite boutique and just soak up the
Experimental Beach is good if you want to liven it up a bit without going too mad. Perched on a pebbly coastline on the south of the island, facing out towards the Mediterranean Sea, and surrounded by the Ses Salines salt flats, it's in a great position for watching the sun set (and getting eaten by mosquitos - so spray yourself before you go!) .
Olivias Ibiza Kitchen opened last year in Santa Gertrudis and is a family run business. Another built on offering fresh, seasonal dishes, which were delicious – try the mango cheesecake with sesame cookie. The restaurant is also a showroom for local crafts, with attention to detail in everything from the ceramics to carpentry.
The restaurants get booked up so I would recommend booking before you go if you can.
What to do
Beaches
There are so many beaches and coves to explore in Ibiza and I would recommend that you get a car to explore fully. if you can, Here's a great little run down of beaches that I have used both times we have been there. I much prefer to head to the beach after breakfast when its a little quieter, it's much easier to get parked too!
Drumming Benirras
You can’t go to Ibiza and not experience the sunset drumming at Benirras. The main day for it is Sunday but there is usually some every night during the summer months. (If you do go on a Sunday check out the road closure times). Pack a blanket to sit on, some chilled drinks and nibbles, and sit back and enjoy. Or if you fancy join in the dancing and chanting!
Boat to Formentera
If you can, get a boat to Formentera as it's stunning. We decided to charter a boat and headed over there. Swimming in the warm turquoise waters, taking in the long stretch of gorgeous sandy beach and having a little fun on the doughnut (the kids) and wakeboarding (the husband) on our way back. It was such a fun day! I'll be honest I have no idea who we booked this with as my husband organised it when we were out there (sorry not helpful!).
Shopping
Ok so I wouldn’t normally suggest shopping as a top holiday activity but it counts in Ibiza for two reasons.
Firstly, they have the best hippy markets. Go to the well-known Las Dahlias an oasis of colour, peace and music. I like the night market when it’s cooler and you can make an evening of it. With over 100 stalls there’s plenty of mooching to be had, and you can also grab some food and drinks, and enjoy the live music.
Secondly, SLUIZ.(pic right) If you have not been to SLUIZ you must. It’s a treasure trove of lovely homewares and clothes, some bonkers some wonderful, that you will feel you absolutely NEED to buy. Expect colour on a grand scale, with ceramics aplenty and the coolest Ibizan clothes. A visit is always a feast for your eyes with a brilliant theme each year that makes it a unique and unforgettable shopping experience,. Even parking the car is fun!
So there you have it a little round up of Ibiza with no clubbing in sight! I can't wait to go back, I think a long weekend is on the cards next year before the season really gets going - who's in?
Susie x
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