It prides itself on its exceptional service from catering to whatever you feel like eating, to allowing you to reserve the entire spa for yourself. It’s the place to go for sheer self-indulgence. Ibiza really stole my heart; there’s so many hidden gems on the island, from romantic open-air, candle-lit restaurants by the bay to vibey, fun beach day clubs. The truth is, you just need to know where to look. Here’s how to discover the real Ibiza, About Time style: 48-Hours in Ibiza: Where to Stay For a Chilled Stay: Sol House Ibiza

When I was a teenager I was desperate to go to this mythical island. I’d heard of the clubs, the DJs, and the “sleep when you’re dead” mentality and it sounded so darkly glamorous I was dying to be a part of it. Whether Ibiza ever went out of fashion is debatable, but there’s no question that the White Isle is currently enjoying something of a renaissance. It has witnessed a string of scene-shifting new openings in recent years – like the luxe Six Senses in Portinatx, on the island’s north coast, which unveiled its chic Beach Caves in 2022, and The Standard in the Old Town. And though Ibiza will forever be associated with hedonism, the original clubber’s paradise has much to offer a different breed of pleasure-seeker these days. This summer, a wave of new restaurants, like the Ibiza outpost of Mayfair favourite Maine, and a pop-up from Michelin star chef Nieves Barragán, is securing its position as a foodie destination, as well as a party one. A modern and lively beach club located on the sands of Ibiza's longest beach, Tuk Tuk Ibiza is a popular offering. Snooze under straw-thatched umbrellas or enjoy classic Spanish and Mediterranean treats with an Asian twist, deliciously fresh salads, sushi, fish, meat and more. The atmosphere is unpretentious and uplifting, with trendy young things living their best Ibiza lives. A place so special I almost don’t want to write about it. Set in a tiny cove, Ex Xarcu is a real gem. Simply a great understated restaurant, with a few sun loungers, next to the glittering sea.Whether it’s a planetary force or just what happens when a critical mass of souls come together to enjoy themselves, good things just seem to happen there. Now, this place might not be completely quiet but it’s a world away from the nightclubs in San Antonio. The Old Town, or Dalt Vila, gives you an idea what Ibiza used to be like.

So, where is the quiet side of Ibiza? Crudely speaking, the north of the island is the most untouched and hippyish and most of the well-known nightclubs and activity are contained in the southwest. Why it’s awesome: Located in the north of the island, the small and scenic island of Sant Mateu d’Albarca is one of the most romantic places to visit in Ibiza. A fabulous place to escape the crowds and discover a more traditional and rural part of the island, the village lies in a lush and fertile valley. The area is especially known for its wine-making heritage, and visitors can call into one of the wineries to learn more about the industry and sample delectable local wines. The vineyards and verdant countryside are ideal for hiking and cycling, and the village has a number of photogenic buildings to admire too. The village hosts a wine festival each December. This luxury family hotel is located in Santa Eulalia del Río, which is often considered the quietest part of Ibiza and a popular destination for families in Ibiza.

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Sophisticated holidaymakers are sure to love the classy bistros and stylish marinas of Santa Eulalia while the sheltered sandy bay of Port Des Torrent is the perfect spot for romantic beach breaks. ME Ibiza is another luxury Ibiza hotel with a kids club. It is also a stunning, boutique property that falls under the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World banner.

Its recent history, certainly in the last century, is one of Bohemian coming together which is actually how the party scene emerged. So, put your preconceptions aside, jump in, and see what happens on the quiet side of Ibiza. Welcome to my “I went to Ibiza and didn’t go to a nightclub” guide to having a great time. Cala d’Hort is also a well-known quiet retreat. Hidden away in a national park, this beach has managed to keep all of its natural beauty and hasn’t been commercialised by huge hotels and noisy bars. Instead, you’ll find an idyllic spot looking over the mysterious island of Es Vedra, the perfect place to appreciate the beauty of Ibiza.And if you’re in need of a special outfit for a night out, make a beeline for Annie’s Ibiza in the Old Town, where Kate and Lila shop for designer vintage on family holidays. “It’s easy to lose hours rifling through the precious vintage dresses, as well as new season pieces selected by founder Annie Doble,” says British Vogue’s commerce writer Alice Cary. “When she’s not travelling, Doble is on hand to help you choose between sparkly Area looks, vintage slips and her own line of corseted minidresses. Some nights it’s open until the small hours, which is perfect in a fashion emergency – like when you make the spontaneous decision to hit the club.” Getting there If you look for it, there’s still a strong hippy vibe, yoga everywhere and wonderful hiking and adventuring to be had; welcome to the quiet part of Ibiza. It’s a far cry from the overt glamour of some of the more polished parts of Ibiza it is one of Ibiza’s best-kept secrets. For activities away from the crowds, look to head out on the water. Sailing and island hopping are a great way to make the most of Ibiza’s spectacular scenery.

Not far to the east of Santa Eulalia is Es Cana, a small, relaxed resort right on the coast. A horseshoe of golden sand and palm trees surrounds the clear, blue sea, a great spot to soak up that Spanish sun. Es Cana is famously the home of the original hippy market of Punta Arabi, which has been running since the seventies. The market attracts thousands of visitors each year, and you’ll find stalls set up every Wednesday with crafts, clothes, traditional Ibizan souvenirs and homemade fresh seafood paella, hot out of the pan.Promising a night of wholesome euphoria, our diverse crowd of partygoers all contribute to the feel-good atmosphere. Designed for people of all ages, it’s an opportunity for generations to come together and enjoy iconic music in a stunning location. Some are sleek and suave, while others embrace the island’s natural beauty and bohemian vibe. All are high in comfort, provide excellent service and are guaranteed to give you that true holiday feel. From its location at the much more tranquil southern end of Playa d'en Bossa, Coco Beach is a classy beach club offering superb cuisine, stunning sea views, and highly attentive service. Add to that its trendy fashion boutique, cutting-edge pop-up art gallery and great sounds and you have all the ingredients for a day (or night) of luxurious dining and pampering! Ibiza island isn’t very big. You can drive across it in less than an hour. So, nowhere is out of reach.