One of us had our 18th, 21st and 30th birthdays in Ibiza and we always said we’d never have our 40th there, but after a recent trip back to the island that might be a decision we reassess. Like us, Ibiza has gotten older and seems to have grown up too – though a lot of this maybe down to Covid, which means clubs remain closed and there’s a 1am curfew. That said, there’s a new selection of hotels, restaurants and bars that are trying to change the island’s reputation, whether that’s bringing down over-the-top pricing, offering a chic-er daytime experience or focusing on R&R to make the island a little more sophisticated.
W Ibiza is one of those hotels, and we went to check it out for a night in August. Located in the quieter area of Santa Eulalia on the east coast, the new hotel is less about the pool parties and loud music and more about the cocktails, infinity pools, chilled interiors and laid- back vibes. That said, in true W fashion, there is a night club, but it’s tucked away in the basement and fully sound proofed. Interiors are a little different from your usual W hotels, much more boho, beachy vibes with splashes of colour throughout. Instagrammers will love the colourful blinds that adorn the exterior, whilst rooms are layered with patterned cushions and rugs to help them pop.
We stayed in a twin room with a balcony, beach views, incredible rain shower and very comfy beds. But it’s the infinity pool on the rooftop, the huge pool deck below with day beds for two, the epic buffet breakfast containing a wealth of Spanish produce (yes jamon and cheese for breakfast is acceptable when in Spain) and the lobby bar with relaxing sofas and a swing that really make the W Ibiza a great place to stay. Not to mention the direct access to the beach and sun loungers for guests to use. Plus, we discovered Hambre, a little natural wine bar just three minutes away, and Chiringuito Blue next door, both of which are perfect for local lunches and dinner should you really want to skip out on that age old taxi shortage and truly have a different Ibizan experience….
Carrer Ricardo Curtoys Gotarredona, 37 Santa Eulalia del Rio, 07840 Spain
marriott.com