• Samantha Lewis from MailOnline states that the Spanish island always impresses.
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Ibiza is renowned as a party destination where people unwind and dance all night long until dawn breaks, yet I have never had that kind of experience there.

As with many others, I was captivated by a less bustling part of the White Isle featuring tranquil villages, beautiful coastlines, and rejuvenating spa resorts.

During my initial trip to Ibiza, which took place during a family vacation when I was still a teenager, we stayed for seven days at a hotel near the tranquil town of Santa Eulalia. This hotel was just steps away from a beautiful sandy shore.

I recall it as a relaxed vacation where I spent considerable time swimming in the ocean and enjoyed ice cream nearly every day. Simply reminiscing about it brings a smile to my face.

Since then, I've returned to Ibiza several times to relax and discover more about the place. Most recently, towards the end of last summer, when the island was beginning to slow down after the busy season, my visit was just as enchanting as ever. Ibiza consistently impresses me – and these are the reasons why...

1. World-class hotels

Ibiza boasts several luxurious accommodations—from trendy boutique hideaways with a Bohemian chic vibe to revamped traditional spots that emphasize cutting-edge interior design.

Among the highly sought-after establishments is the Montesol Experimental hotel, located right in the center of Ibiza Town.

The hotel first opened its doors as the Gran Hotel Montesol back in 1933 and since then, it has welcomed an array of notable guests including Orson Welles, Pink Floyd, and Princess Caroline of Monaco.

In 2021, the sleek neo-colonial estate was acquired by the Experimental Group, resulting in an impressive renovation.

The redesign was led by Dorothée Meilichzon, a renowned Parisian interior designer known for crafting some of today’s most impressive hotels like the Grand Pigalle Hotel in Paris and Cowley Manor in Gloucestershire. Under her guidance, Montesol’s 30 rooms and three suites have been turned into a captivating haven featuring soft hues, complete with wicker lamps and uniquely shaped furnishings.

Additionally, there’s an enchanting cosmic theme, with lunar designs scattered throughout.

2. Sensational beaches

When it comes to beaches, Ibiza offers an abundance of options. The island boasts over 80 beaches ranging from charming secluded coves to magnificent expanses with pristine white sand.

Fortunately, due to Ibiza’s comparatively compact dimensions (you can travel from north to south in roughly an hour), you aren’t restricted to exploring just one or two areas.

You could spend days moving from one beach to another, trying to visit as many as you can.

Make sure to visit Cap des Falco, a rocky coastline in the south that features the Experimental Beach club.

Managed by the same hotel, the golden sand beach features rows of pristine white sun loungers and daybeds providing excellent views of both the sea and the sunset. As you make your way there, the route will take you through the Los Salinas salt flats, which are frequented by vibrant flocks of pink flamingos.

To experience the island’s bohemian atmosphere, visit Benirras in the northern part of the island. Every Sunday, drummers gather at the beach, bonfires are ignited, and people come together to honor the setting sun.

For family-friendly options, consider Cala Gracioneta, a picturesque white sand beach favored by locals seeking tranquility. It offers serene surroundings with trees lining the shore, crystal-clear turquoise water, and a peaceful atmosphere away from crowds.

3. Delicious local cuisine

Usually, meals start with freshly baked bread accompanied by aioli (a garlicky mayonnaise). These are often enjoyed alongside pitchers of wine and traditional sangria.

A number of eateries will similarly offer dishes like patatas bravas, croquettes, grilled octopus, and a fine paella.

The classic Ibiza paella called paella de marisco comes loaded with squid, mussels, shrimp, clams, and scallops. It arrives at the table in large, sizzling pots meant for communal sharing.

Another must-try specialty includes butifarra sausage—a pâté made from pork, bacon, and various spices, generously spread over rustic bread—alongside sofrit pages, a substantial meat stew featuring ingredients like chicken, lamb, and Ibizan sausages.

4. Artisan shopping

Ditch the typical fridge magnets and keychains; Ibiza provides genuinely distinctive souvenirs to bring back with you.

Es Cana is famous for its 'hippie markets' where local artisans display their handmade goods such as kaftans, crocheted bikinis, silver jewelry, leather bags, and various items.

Dedicated shoppers ought to visit the historic and largest Hippy Market Punta Arabi, located every Wednesday from April to October in Es Cana. This lively event features over 500 stalls, offering ample opportunity for exploration throughout the day. For Saturday market enthusiasts, the Las Dalia Hippy Market convenes in San Carlos.

These are complemented by numerous local artisans' markets spread across the island, offering items ranging from ceramics to handcrafted soaps.

5. Mysterious natural wonders

Undoubtedly, Ibiza exerts a particular allure, and many speculate this may be connected to the enigmatic rock of Es Vedra.

Located off the southwestern coast of the island, folklore suggests that this unoccupied rock formation is the third most magnetic spot globally, following the Bermuda Triangle and the North Pole.

The towering limestone monolith reaches an impressive height of 400 meters (1,312 ft) and is undoubtedly captivating.

Do not overlook the opportunity to view it from the cliffs above Cala d'Hort beach in Sant Josep, where the vistas remain unobstructed. The atmosphere becomes especially enchanting during sunset.

6. World-class wellness

Reveal the mysteries of longevity at Six Senses Ibiza.

The luxurious retreat in the island’s bohemian northern region has elevated spa amenities to an unprecedented degree following the introduction of their new ' RoseBar longevity club '.

The 'secrets' come to light through a program lasting either one, three, or seven days, which includes comprehensive wellness assessments to address personal requirements.

The RoseBar programs provide visitors with 'valuable knowledge and resources' aimed at enhancing and activating the body’s inherent healing mechanisms.

The comprehensive spa offers various treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and intravenous vitamin infusions, ice baths, infrared saunas, along with yoga and meditation sessions.

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