The White Isle Round-Up
So as Ibiza’s parties came to an end last weekend, with Nikki Beach’s Red Party, and closing parties at Booom, Ushuaia, Pacha, Space and others, we look at what’s been the best of the island this season.
Night
For a solid, new dance-all-night event, there wasn’t much beating Solomun on Sundays at Pacha, with an added bonus of a free after party ‘til the silly hours at new Resort Destino – if you were lucky enough to bag a wristband.
The sell-out Music On at Amnesia on Fridays remained a favourite though, with one of the finest laser light shows, and Carl Cox and Marco Carola filling the main room and terrace with banging beats.
Day
The best new opening of the year was the Ibiza outpost of the famous Nikki Beach, in Santa Eulalia del Rio. With its ocean views, sexy staff and top-draw cocktails – it proved the perfect palace for people watching.
Also new on the scene was the lesser known Hidden at Cala San Vicente. Although perhaps a little tricky to find, this retro-style, family run bar and restaurant had a surprise at every corner, even boasting mini golf and outdoor ten-pin bowling, along with stellar cocktails from one of London’s finest mixologists.
And if you really wanted to ramp up the pace, day party ANTS at Ushuaia was on form all season, with trippy man-size insects running free, giant ants in the pool and up the walls, and a show-stopping finale, complete with trapeze artists and fireworks. Andrea Oliva tore up the crowd – I’ll be joining the colony next year again for sure.
Eat
Newbie shake shack Dunes in Playa D’En Bossa offered a great burger selection, and some quality down-time, post-day party. With a US-feel, reasonable prices and friendly staff, I’ll be going back.
Or for something finer, the institution that is La Masia in Sant Miquel was a pleasure to visit – with its grape-strewn courtyard, fairy lights, a delightful maitre d’ and giant portions, (where we found there was so much food, two could easily share starters and mains).
Deco at the art deco-inspired Hotel Es Vive remained a gorgeous place to dine. Overseen by the charming Jason Bull of Sands fame, the stunning black and white dining room proffered a classic brasserie menu together with an extensive cocktail list. We grabbed a copy of the new Hotel Es Vive 3 CD album on our way out, to remind us of this chic hangout back in the UK.
And forever breath-taking was the spectacular Hacienda Na Xamena. This luxury resort set in the hills of the north, offered both great platters for the day in its Eden Lounge, and a sumptuous gourmet restaurant Sueño de Estrellas –perfect for those special occasions.
Fly to Ibiza for the start of next year’s season, searching for fares on travel search site momondo. Return flights to Ibiza from London next May 2014 start from £133.
(Price true as of date published – terms and conditions apply.)
