Ibiza is the ultimate social chameleon. Want to dance until dawn? She’s here for it. Sunrise yoga more your thing? There’s nowhere better to try it. I’ve experienced Ibiza in all her guises. A cava-laden hen ‘do, a culinary-led couples holiday, a soul-enriching yoga retreat – and every time I love her a little bit more. So naturally, I jumped at the chance to return to the White Isle, this time for a heady dose of (just one) of the things Ibiza does best – pure, unadulterated hedonism.
Amàre Beach Hotel is nestled in San Antonio Bay with a sprawling, white-washed complex that encapsulates the bohemian vibe that’s typical of Ibiza. It’s less than 10 minutes away from San Antonio itself by water taxi and a 35-minute drive from the airport.
So let’s start with the credentials. There are three lounging areas – rooftop, main pool and beach – where DJs and live singers provide mellow Balearic beats and higher-tempo tunes as the sun goes down.
There’s also a 24-hour gym offering complimentary yoga and HIIT classes on alternate days, as well as a lush Germaine de Capuccini spa with soothing treatments to lull even the most stressed guest into a state of calm. Perfect for weary travellers.
But, let’s face it, it’s hard to be stressed at Amàre, with every convenience catered for and a real focus on comfort and ease. Sit back and relax on a plush sun lounger while attentive staff deliver tasty delights like melt-in-the-mouth sushi and expertly-crafted Aperol spritzes.
Our package included access to ‘The One’ lounge, which soon became my happy place. As well as tasty snacks – think mini salads, savoury bites, brownies, pastries, fruit and cute little cakes – there’s an open bar where you can help yourself to coffee, juices or an afternoon G&T if the mood strikes. With views out to the sea and across the glistening pool area, it’s the perfect place to take a minute to unwind, refuel or share a moment with your fellow holiday goers.
In terms of the culinary offering, Amàre excels. The breakfast and dinner buffet goes far beyond the usual offering, with station after station of local and international cuisine. Pan con tomate – a local dish of freshly baked bread topped simply with olive oil and garlic and juicy grated tomato – became my breakfast obsession.
For those in search of a little luxury, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant offers stunning views and a menu crafted by Michelin-star chef Mauricio Giovanini. Hayaca serves up extra special dishes like citrus-infused ceviche and tender wagyu steak for a fine dining experience.
Of course, balance is key and our time at Amàre wasn’t all sushi and pool-side spritzes. One of the highlights of the hotel is the stunning views from its rooftop pool, situated next to a terrace that’s perfect for a morning yoga session. After a night of indulgence and a quick trip to the San Antonio strip that involved a rather questionable variation on a Long Island Iced Tea, a gentle and calming yoga session was most welcome.
If you want to venture outside of the hotel, there’s plenty to discover. Ibiza is legendary for its stunning beaches and hidden coves – and there’s no better way to discover these than by boat. We boarded the Salvador Ibiza and had the whole boat to ourselves, monopolising the playlist with feel-good tunes and feasting on Spanish tortilla and rosé wine – hedonism at its peak.
There’s also Ibiza Old Town within easy reach, where you can discover the more cultural side of the island. During our visit, there was a Medieval Market taking place, a spectacle typical of this area.
Dorthraki-style men and women wearing tribal face paint and feather headdresses paraded through the streets beating drums and calling out to the crowds, while market sellers – always in character – looked on from behind stalls offering gifts and trinkets, from fine cheeses and home-made liqueurs to vintage-style jewellery and hand-crafted leather bags. After a little retail therapy, there are plenty of spots along the cobbled streets where visitors can enjoy a few sundowners and escape the afternoon heat.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m here for wellness and balance, but sometimes letting loose can be the best form of self-care. I urge you to find a few days to savour the indulgent food, enjoy the extra-long massage and dance all night under the sunshine. It sure does feel good.
Rates
Rooms at Amàre Ibiza start from €139 per room, per night on a room-only basis, €155 per room, per night on a bed & breakfast basis, and €185 per room, per night on a half-board basis. This is based on two people sharing an ‘I Was Here’ room.
For a ‘Keep The Secret’ room, prices start from €169 per room, per night on a room-only basis, €185 per room, per night on a bed & breakfast basis and €215 per room, per night on a half-board basis, based on two people sharing a room.
For a ‘Oh Là Là The One’ room, prices start from €255 per room, per night on a bed & breakfast basis and €285 per room, per night on a half-board basis, based on two people sharing a room. The price includes access to The One lounge, with snacks and drinks from 11am to 9 pm and a 10% discount at a wide range of local businesses.
For more information and to book, go to amarehotels.com or call 0800 084 3493 or email booking@amarehotels.com
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