Whether you’re a seasoned party animal, or just looking for a relaxing beach holiday, the beautiful island of Ibiza satisfies on many levels. In our latest journal, The Luxury Travel Book founder Susie Marquis recommends her favourite villas and restaurants on the island for an unforgettable break.
Though it may be renowned for its lively nightlife in Ibiza Town and Sant Antonio, there is so much more to Ibiza, including quiet authentic villages, cultural and historic attractions, yoga retreats, and pretty, white sand beaches (from Cala Bassa on the west coast to Cala Tarida and the family-friendly Es Caná on the east coast). For those looking for a little more privacy, beaches like Portinax, Cala Llonga, Puerto San Miguel and Santa Eulalia are all great bases for some summer seclusion.You’ll also find excellent restaurants on the island. These range from casual beachside taverns where you can relax, barefoot in the sand, and enjoy cocktails at sunset before dining while watching the sea, to sophisticated world-famous eateries. For our hand-picked selection of the most spectacular Ibiza villas to rent, and the best nearby dining spots, read on.
Check out Cala d’HortCala d’Hort, a lovely beach in the south-west of Ibiza, is surrounded by a National Park and accessed via a steep, single-track road that winds around the spectacular cliff face that forms a backdrop to the beach. There are also views over the sea to the mysterious island of Es Vedra, which can be reached by boat. Over 400m high, the small island is also known to have a level of magnetic activity – many believe it to be linked with the lost city of Atlantis.Recommended villa: Villa Michaela (5 bedrooms, 10 guests)Sitting in a quiet coastal location with views over the sea to Es Vedra, Villa Michaela is just a 5-minute drive from the beaches of Cala d’Hort and Cala Carbo.Recommended restaurant: Es BoldadoWith one of the most spectacular locations on the island ­– on a cliff with views of the magical Es Vedra rock – Es Boldado is a very popular spot for a romantic meal. Great for lunch or dinner, it’s also an ideal spot to watch the sungo down.
Recommended villa: Villa Eden (5-10 bedrooms, 10-20 guests) This exceptional, modern villa sits in a private spot in the south of the island, between Sant Josep and the beach of Cala Jondal, with its famous Blue Marlin beach bar. Surrounded by tall palm and pine trees, the villa also offers a beautiful garden, including a 25m infinity swimming pool, which can be heated during the winter months. There’s also a large jacuzzi for up to 10 people, surrounded by shady palms, a petanque pitch and a unique outdoor cinema. The interiors are equally impressive!Recommended restaurant: Can DomingoIn a quiet location, away from the crowds, Can Domingo sits in an ancient finca (or estate) in the hills of San Jose. The owners have created a restaurant where guests can enjoy delicious Italian cuisine outside in a magical garden setting. Even better, it’s just a 10-minute drive from Villa Eden.
Recommended villa: Can Reyna (4 bedrooms, 8 guests)This beautiful villa in the northern part of the island enjoys spectacular views to the Morna valley and is just a 10-minute drive from the area of Santa Eulalia. Guests here can relax by the pool or explore the vast gardens, complete with ponds and a waterfall, as well as a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen. In the evenings, guests can enjoy a cocktail or dinner in the large, covered dining area and watch the sunset. The interiors of the villa have been designed in traditional finca style, with the addition of all the modern comforts. Recommended restaurants: There are severalrecommended restaurants within an easy drive of Can Reyna, ranging from the casual Aubergine Ibiza,a charming countryside restaurant just outside Santa Gertrudis that’s perfect for both a relaxed family lunch or a romantic dinner, to the sophisticated Bambuddha withits menu of Mediterranean/Asian fusion.
Recommended villa: Estrella Azul (6 bedrooms, 12 guests)This stunning villa sits in a quiet location within flower-filled gardens that surround an impressive swimming pool. It also benefits from two outdoor dining areas, as well as views of the beautiful south coast and its beaches. The accommodation is spread across a main house and a separate ‘casita’ or smaller building, the latter with a stunning master suite overlooking the pool. There is also a chill-out space with a large sofa, a pool table, football table and a bar. For special occasions, guests can request access to the property’s ‘club’, with its sound system, lighting and DJ cabin.Recommended restaurant: El Oliva MioLocated in the old part of Ibiza Town known as Dalt Vila, El Olivo Mio benefits from a beautiful romantic setting and a boho-chic vibe. Just 17 minutes’ drive from Estrella Azul, the restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with an Asian-Italian twist.
Recommended villa: Can Felipe (6 bedrooms, 12 guests)This spacious retreat offers stunning views of Ibiza’s south coast, as well as fabulous sunset views from the roof terrace. Situated between Porroig and Es Cubells, the villa sits within beautifully landscaped gardens, which house a table tennis table, petanque court and a trampoline, as well as swimming pool, separate jacuzzi and a solar-heated children’s pool. Children will also love the large play area with a climbing frame, swings and two playhouses. The interiors are also beautiful and the villa includes a small and well-equipped gym.Recommended restaurant: Can BassJust a 5-minute drive from Can Felipe, Can Bass offers a friendly ambience, beautiful décor and excellent cuisine. Guests can choose to sit in an indoor dining room, a covered outdoor dining room, or on the terrace.
Recommended villa: Cala XuclaAmong the quieter beaches on the island is Cala Xucla, home to one of our more remote villas. Set within 30 acres of privately owned pine forest, it’s a few minutes’ walk from the villa to the beach and the sea. The property also benefits from a large infinity swimming pool and beautiful courtyard gardens offering uninterrupted peace in lovely surroundings. Just a few minutes’ drive away is Cala Xarraca, another quiet beach, with natural mud baths which are said to have healing properties.Recommended Restaurant: La PalomaJust a 15-minute drive inland from Cala Xucla, La Paloma restaurant offers locally produced, organic food in a beautiful setting in the small village of San Lorenzo.
Fancy an island escape? The Luxury Travel Book offer a host of stunning seascapes and luxury villas perfect for the ultimate island getaway: Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, Sicily, Zakynthos To be first in line to receive news on our enticing international properties, our luxurious new villas and our bespoke selection of captivating travel itineraries, simply sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter here.