The White Isle is famed for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and bohemian charm, but there’s luxury foodie offerings and rural retreats to explore, too. And at just 45km in length and 25km wide, this Balearic island is enticingly accessible. In search of a different Ibiza, we took in the elegant Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay, situated on the sandy southern shores of Talamanca Bay, before heading inland for a luxurious stay at the dreamy and exclusive Can Lluc.
NOBU HOTEL IBIZA BAY
We arrive on the island early in order to soak up as much sunshine as possible, and we’ve time to reacquaint ourselves with the town before we head to Nobu. It’s not yet 10am and we find ourselves at an ice cream parlour posing for a picture with a glamorous gaggle of bearded and sequinned drag queens – and cannot help but giggle at this most Ibizan welcome. This is the spirit we know and love, but we’re determined to look beyond the neon lights and the razzle dazzle on this trip, in search of something altogether more relaxing.
Our oasis is a mere 10-minute cab ride away, on the shores of Talamanca Bay, and from the moment we set foot inside the serene lobby, complete with chic rattan lighting and inviting rope swing seats, we know we’re in for something special. The hotel greets you with an understated elegance that exudes calm and sophistication. Yes, this is boho-chic, but an altogether grownup interpretation: think soothing neutral tones, rich natural textures, and an abundance of light that successfully blurs inside and out. We are instantly at ease.
The suites at Nobu are an elegant mix of boho-chic and Japandi minimalismThe bedroom is a serene sanctuary with floor-to-ceiling glazing that offers stunning views of the pool below and the turquoise waters beyond – an idyllic scene that’s perfectly framed by tall, swaying palm trees. The interior design is flawless, with a touch of Japandi minimalism blended with Mediterranean warmth. And while it’s tempting to immediately crash into one seriously plush bed after our early start, a slap-up lunch is calling us.
It comes as little surprise that Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay is a foodie’s paradise. The hotel boasts an impressive selection of dining options, but the crown jewel is, of course, the Nobu restaurant itself. Dining here is an experience to savour, with dishes that blend Japanese precision with Peruvian flair. Each bite is a revelation, especially the black cod miso – a signature dish that lives up to its legendary status. For a more laid-back affair, we wander over to Chambao by the Beach, the hotel’s beachside chiringuito, and with toes sinking into the warm sand at our outdoor table, we enjoy a feast of fresh seafood paella and an ice-cold glass of sangria. Perfection.
The hotel is a destination in its own right, with so many opportunities for indulgence and relaxation, and we spend much of our time reclining by the pool. In fact, there’s a choice of two pools here, one for families and another that’s strictly adults-only, both of which are surrounded by the most luxurious double sunbeds. Whichever poolside spot you choose, the vibe is effortlessly cool, with a DJ spinning mellow tunes in the background and friendly staff ready to attend to your every need, whether that’s a refreshing cocktail or a perfectly timed pre-dinner snack. You don’t need to move a muscle.
While it feels every bit a secluded haven, Nobu is just a short stroll from the bustling marina, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, a decent walk into Ibiza’s historic old town with its quaint cobbled streets and colourful array of shops and restaurants. After a day of near comatose lounging and indulgent eating, we’re more than keen to stretch our legs and explore the vicinity – a balmy evening walk is just the ticket. Yet, whenever we return to Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay, we feel a world away from the hustle and bustle. Our stay has been short but importantly, restorative. And as we savour our last indulgent breakfast at Chambao – think eggs Benedict cooked to perfection, fluffy pancakes drenched in maple syrup, and a buffet selection of the finest pastries – we also drink in our idyllic surrounds. Yes, this is the life.
CAN LLUC
With most of Ibiza’s focus on beachside fun, you’d be forgiven for overlooking an inland rural retreat – but you’d be missing out. Situated in the heart of the island, Can Lluc is a luxurious oasis that perfectly balances rustic charm with modern sophistication. This boutique residence has everything: privacy, beauty, and an effortlessly cool vibe that makes it ideal for anyone looking to unwind and recharge.
Its series of commodious, modern white villas is surrounded by lush pine forests and fragrant almond trees, offering a true sense of escape from the stresses of everyday life. In our bumpy taxi ride up to our seriously sprawling villa, the wows keep on coming. We’re one of the first guests to be staying at the newly built Deluxe Suite-Villa with Pool, and our drive up to the entrance is a pinch-me moment to remember. Is all of this really just for us?
Led by owner Lucas, who shows us around – and gives us the lowdown on the historic estate, once owned by his grandfather – we discover a wonderfully spacious layout and a clean and minimalist design, with everything we could possibly need for a comfortable stay. The living area is open and inviting, with plush modern sofas and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light.
The pièce de resistance though is our own private swimming pool – not huge, but indulgently deep. We spend countless hours lounging by the water’s edge, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Forget a room with a view, here we have a luxury plunge pool with a view, and the lush mountainous vista is nothing short of spectacular. The patio area is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or to sip a cocktail as the sun sets, and we find it’s so easy to lose track of time when you’re in such a blissful setting. But we’re keen to explore this relatively untrodden area of Ibiza, too.
Lucas recommends a visit to Bibo Park. Just a short drive from Can Lluc, this innovative botanical garden is a testament to the island’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The park is home to a diverse collection of plants, many of which are native to Ibiza and the wider Mediterranean region, and many of which are now considered endangered species. As we’re guided through the magical gardens, we are wowed by the science and the beauty. The scenery is matched by the rugged landscape back at the hotel, which provides the perfect spot to explore the island’s natural beauty, whether hiking or cycling through the scenic trails.
One of Can Lluc’s many draws is its versatility. There’s self-catering available – we have a fully equipped modern kitchen in our villa, but the on-site restaurant also serves up a delectable menu of traditional Ibizan dishes with a modern twist. Each meal is a celebration of local flavours and fresh ingredients, beautifully presented and utterly delicious – think succulent grilled seafood or a fragrant paella, recalling the island’s rich culinary heritage. Breakfasts here are enjoyed at the original finca, complete with rustic stone walls and low wooden beams, which serves as a reminder of the plot’s storied past – and is in striking contrast to the chic modernity of the surrounding luxury villas.
But what’s really striking is Can Lluc’s warmth and hospitality – even if you need a pair of binoculars to wave to your nearest neighbour. This is a sanctuary, in the original sense of the word, that captures the essence of Ibiza – a place where you can connect with nature, indulge in luxury, and experience the island’s unique charm. As we leave, we carry with us a sense of serenity and gratitude, knowing we’ve discovered a truly special place.
