Words by Sara Darling
Hands up if you would head to Ibiza to chill out? The island is becoming more and more popular with the ‘overs’, who want to come and enjoy the stunning scenery and natural beauty.
The north is still the home of laid back bohemians and free spirits. Yoga and meditation retreats are sprouting up at a rapid rate, with treatments promising to help with stress, sleep and bad habits, and celebrities like Jade Jagger, Kate Moss, Noel Gallagher, Lily Allen and Idris Elba are often spotted behind big sunglasses or doing yoga…. however if you have a more modest budget, Talamanca is the ideal spot for affordable luxury.
I stayed at the OD in Talamanca, which has just opened its rooftop pool and bar. Not to mention the two other pools on ground level- which means you will never be without a tasteful Bali sunbed whilst you are sipping cocktails. With local art, DJ’s and breakfast on the terrace until noon, this cosy hotel was a little slice of heaven. And did I mention the sunset views from the rooftop?
Designed by architect Victor Rahola and interiors expert Mayte Matutes, the exterior is simple and modern, and an all white interior is finished off with a touch of blue, which gives it a laid back, Scandi vibe.
Spacious rooms with balconies mean a view of the pool for most, but this is a boutique hotel so you won’t ever be hustling for space or peace! The action all takes place around the poolside(s), with live music, yoga and a healthy Mediterranean menu, it makes an ideal base for pre-dinner drinks, sunset drinks or dinner and drinks!
However if you did want complete privacy, The Deluxe Apartment Suites can offer you all you need for a totally indulgent weekend! Designed over two floors there are two bedrooms, a kitchen and a 120m roof terrace with private swimming pool. You even have access to one of the hotel’s SMART cars should you ever want to leave and explore the island.
Ibiza offers everything you need for a bohemian, colourful and eccentric break, and cabaret club Lio is definitely worth a visit- for the random magician and wrestlers! But if you want to let your hair down a little more, your concierge at OD Talamanca can get you VIP Access to some of the islands best clubs including the biggies Pacha and Ushuaïa.
Heading there for a three night mini break, I was well aware I should put some party tokens in my sleep bank in preparation! Whether you are a raver or not, life is later in Spain; Expect to eat lunch at 3 and dinner at 10pm.. And time is too precious to waste your day sleeping.
Head out of the hotel for dinner at Sa Punta- a favourite with the locals, this restaurant, just a hop skip and jump away on the Talamanca beach front (and a ten minute stroll from the hotel). It has been running for 35 years and offers a welcoming ambience.
The basis is Italian, but many Mediterranean flavours can be found on this ever changing menu, where a lot of the produce comes from the on site veggie garden. Don’t forget to pop into Aladdin’s Cave, a tucked away boutique, which sells fabrics, leather accessories and jewellery designed on the island.
If you don’t have access to helicopter, opt for a day on a speedboat. Ibiza Delivers will come and pick you up from your local jetty and for the full James Bond experience, whisk you over to the stunning island of Formentera to enjoy the clearest waters known to man.
This is a little slice of paradise 6 km south of Ibiza, and is only accessible by boat. There is nothing more decadent than sipping a champagne on board a luxury yacht, whilst bobbing in the crystal clear waters in the sun. Get your skipper to drop you off, and enjoy an afternoon at the secluded beach bar or restaurant, or just enjoy the sand and sea.
Apart from the sun, sea and sangria, there are plenty of beautiful things to see and do in Ibiza- treat yourself to a three night break and then come home and recover!
FACTBOX
OD HOTEL, Talamanca, Ibiza
117 rooms of 5 star luxury
Address: Carrer de Jesus, 28, 07800 Santa Eularia des Riu, Illes Balears, Spain
Phone: +34 971 31 19 12
LIO RESTAURANT AND CABARET BAR, Marina, Ibiza
Magical, memorable and naughty nightly performances.
SA PUNTA RESTAURANT, Es Pouet de Talamanca, Ibiza
Inventive, Mediterranean restaurant set minutes from the shoreline.
IBIZATABLES
Enjoy the very best VIP tables in Ibiza‘s top clubs with IbizaTables. Party like a VIP from the moment you book.
ID PRIVATE YACHT WATER TAXI SERVICE AND EXPERIENCE TRIPS
Flexible three, four or full day experiences, as well as luxury pre-bookable taxi service.