We might be swapping our flip-flops for furry boots for a number of weeks now but in Ibiza the party season is only just winding down. The Spanish island is enormously popular with Irish holidaymakers and after one trip there you’ll see exactly why. We’ve got the insider’s guide to soaking up the sun Ibiza style, whether you’re in search of rest and relaxation or raves and raunchy fun.
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R&R, Island Style
Ibiza is deservedly known for its status as party capital of the world, but if the idea of pounding beats morning, noon and night turns you off quicker than you can say “turn up the bass”, relax. Ibiza absolutely puts its party face forward, but there is so much more to this gorgeous island than clubs. If you’re after more of a chill out vibe, opt for an all-inclusive package at the stunning Palladium Hotel in Cala Llonga. Dine, sip, read, swim and sunbathe to your heart’s content all day. If you decide you want to seek adventure at night, taxis are plentiful and reasonable.
Party Like a Boss
You don’t have to wait for the sun to go down to turn up the volume on this island. Playa D’en Bossa is the place to see and be seen if you’re a mover and shaker. Expect tiny bikinis, loud beats and lots of drinking. Several beach clubs will give you the option of renting a luxury bed on the beach for the day so you can boogie, swim and have a little disco nap all in the one place. While you’re in the area, check out what’s happening at Hard Rock Hotel. The latest five star resort on the island offered some of the biggest names in music for some legendary Friday nights this season.
Serious Style
If you’ve ever been even slightly tempted to get dressed in the dark in head to toe neon and as much bling as you can carry, you’ll find no judgement here. There is no specific dress code for most of the major clubs and no matter what you don you won’t manage to shock on the boardwalk, so go as mad as you fancy! Or stick to your most comfortable shorts and a tank top all week – anything goes around her. PACHA is one of the most famous clubs on the island and there are several stores where you can stock up on colourful clothing with the famous cherry motif. Of course River Island has actually brought out several PACHA collections, which will see you well set before you ever board.
Movie Magic
Now this really feels like a special holiday treat. If you want to skip the bar scene for a night, head for the beach club at Amante, where this season they began showing midnight movies outdoors, with the floodlit rocks as a backdrop. They’ve billed it as “one of the most atmospheric open-air cinema locations on the planet”, and we can see why. Snuggle up on comfy full body bean bags, with a cocktail in hand and settle down to watch some movies under the stars.
Downward Facing Dog
If a little bit of bending and stretching clears your head the morning after the night before, Ibiza’s got you covered. There are several retreats on the island, perfect if you’ve ever dreamed of being a solo traveller on a wellness mission, but you’ll also find lots of open-air classes dotted around the place. So don’t be shy, join in and loosen up.
As The Sun Goes Down
There is something very special about the so called Sunset Strip in San Antonio, where it seems half the island shows up every evening to watch the sun go down. You can sit on the rocks by the seashore, but to make taking it all in a fuller experience, book a table for dinner at Café Mambo and toast to another day in paradise.
Round This Old Town
If you fancy a bit of exploring while you’re on the White Isle, head for the Old Town. A world away from flashy party spots, you’ll need your flat shoes to traverse the narrow and steep cobbled streets. Enjoy the spectacular views on your ascent, before crossing the drawbridge through the Portal de Ses Taules, passing the roman stone statues on your way to the main square. While you’re enjoying the old town, stay long enough to enjoy a candlelight dinner in one of the many beautiful restaurants.
In The Club
Well, we had to mention it! Ibiza is one of the top clubbing destinations in the world, attracting world-famous DJs year on year. The major clubs, aka the ones to look out for are:
- Amnesia – located in the middle of the island, near San Rafael
- DC10 – located near the airport on the road to Las Salinas.
- Eden – located on the waterfront in San Antonio.
- Es Paradis – located on the waterfront in San Antonio
- Pacha – located very near the Ibiza Marina
- Privilege – located in the middle of the island, near San Rafael
- Space – located in Playa d’en Bossa, near the beach.
Clubs kick the season off with their infamous opening parties, which usually take place the last weekend of May. Once this happens, it’s party season right through to the end of September. You’ll find the best of the best headliners at these opposite ends of the season. Roll on next year.
If you’re already dreaming of summer 2015, take a look at the early offers available now with Falcon Holidays.
