Think of Ibiza and most of us think of clubs, DJs and people sweating on dance floors until the sun comes up. But even though the Spanish island is the number one clubbers’ paradise, there is a calmer side of Ibiza which is tranquil, family-friendly, relaxed and idyllic. Think incredible tapas and local wines, stunning beaches, kind and friendly locals…need I go on?
Where To Stay
Casa Munich is a real hidden gem, very close to Ibiza airport but worlds away from the clubs and party scene. Driving through the salt flats, this hotel is located in the spectacular Ses Salinas Nature Reserve and almost appears as if out of nowhere. Casa Munich is luxury at its best. The accommodation comprises mini Spanish villas, with my friend and I staying in a two-bed ground-floor apartment. The space was huge, with a kitchen and living area, one smaller bedroom and one master with an ensuite. Plus an outdoor terrace littered with terracotta pots and brightly coloured tiles.
There are three pool areas at Casa Munich. A quiet pool opposite the spa treatment rooms, another by the restaurant and bar that has chilled-out tracks playing as you sip a mojito. And finally a family pool surrounded by classic Ibiza stone buildings, funky art and tropical palm trees. This place definitely brings you the calmer side of Ibiza vibes.
Where To Eat
Something I was not expecting on my visit to Ibiza was 1742. This newly renovated ancient building is located up the winding cobbled streets of Ibiza’s old town. A private car takes you from a meeting point in a somewhat grotty carpark down by the marina. Greeted at the door with an amuse-bouche, a violinist plays classical music as you make your way along the stunning flower-lined walls. Neon art and disco balls make this a truly spectacular venue.
The chef Edwin Vinke personally greeted us, with a very fancy carrot no less. We were then seated for the evening’s ‘show’. The rules were simple, try everything and alert the staff if you need the loo so the kitchen can pause. It’s a pairing menu of seven courses that will blow your mind and your senses. Dishes from blue lobster to clams, local meats and so much more, all locally sourced and in season. And then there was the wine. It’s a fine art when a sommelier can pair a wine perfectly to a dish but this place made it look effortless. Throughout the meal, performers from opera stars to musicians entertain the guests. Then, for dessert, you are invited to sit on the roof terrace overlooking the bay to enjoy your unbelievable sweet treats with a cocktail. Heaven!
Another spot I always try to make time for when in Ibiza is IZAYAKA. A very cool Japanese restaurant located in the super trendy Sir Joan Hotel. Here we enjoyed sashimi and Sushi, picked out by the chef. Chilled Ibiza tracks play as you eat and drink, the perfect place to sit for hours enjoying the warm Spanish nights.
What to do
To keep that chilled-out vibe, we booked in for a yoga session carried out at Casa Munich’s outdoor yoga studio. Our instructor Yana was amazing, giving us a truly relaxing experience as we stretched and breathed our way through an hour. Yana is an Ibizian local, and her calming aura and incredible knowledge will leave you feeling blissed out and more zen than you’ve ever felt before.
Another top spot to never miss is The Cotton Beach Club. Located in the stunning Cala Tarida bay, you’re provided with sun lounges overlooking the crystal clear ocean. Truly the calmer side of Ibiza, here the table service is available throughout the day to save you trekking the steps up the cliff to the restaurant If you can find the energy to pop up there for lunch then definitely do. The views are magnificent! With DJ’s spinning tunes, this is the place to relax and unwind whilst sipping on a rose and tucking into local delicacies.
For more travel tips and places to go check out our reviews here.
The Joy 