AMÀRE BEACH HOTEL, IBIZA
It’s true that Ibiza still has a side of the island for revellers, but that’s not why I’m here. I’m in need of some respite from my busy life, and what better place to find it than on the island known as much for its mysticism and magic as it is its sunshine and social scene. My taxi pulls up to the stunning Amàre Beach Hotel Ibiza and, as I gaze up at the supersized glass windows and whitewashed walls, I already feel a sense of tranquillity and peace. It’s a mood that continues within – the lobby is light, bright and beautiful, complete with hanging wicker egg chairs and heaps of quirky pieces of art throughout.
My room is both modern and calming, minimal in design, with billowing white curtains that perfectly frame a 360-degree view of the Mediterranean. Flopping on the bed after unpacking my bags, I feel as though I could fall asleep right here and now, listening to the waves below. Already, the hustle and bustle of my life back in London has been very much forgotten.
I eventually drag myself upstairs to the Belvue Rooftop bar, and when I do, I am glad that I have. The views of the bay are even more breathtaking and after an orange blossom cocktail (rum-based and delicious), I instantly feel acclimatised to the Ibizan pace of life. It would be easy not to leave Amàre; the hotel offers three pools, two restaurants and a beach club. Sunloungers are aplenty and, if you fancy a drink while topping up your tan or watching the sunset, each side table is equipped with a button to summon the waiting staff. The next day I hop on board a speedboat tour to really take it all in. I marvel at the Eivissa coves, secret beaches and mystical caves, snorkel among shoals of fish and am entranced by the pod of dolphins that follow the boat as we zoom along, jumping in and out of the water. I end the day dining on humita con tomate y pescado en adobo (tomato humita with marinated fish) at the Hayaca restaurant and realise I haven’t thought about home for at least 24 hours.
After just two nights, I already feel like a new person, but to really ensure my break of R&R does its job, I head to the hotel’s Wellness area for a full-body massage with Germaine de Capuccini oils. I end up dozing off and have to be coaxed awake; I almost float out of the door. I keep this sense of serenity with me long after my trip. It’s a reminder of the value of pressing pause every once in a while. FRANKIE CARY