I’ve just been through lockdown in Ibiza. This is definitely the most unusual summer anyone has ever seen. The coronavirus pandemic has launched the island along a unique, albeit unexpected, pathway. In contrast to the usual debauchery and dancing, this summer is all about sunshine, serenity and tranquility. Are you heading to Ibiza soon? I’ve listed my top 5 things to do in Ibiza this summer accompanied by my best drink suggestions so you can take full advantage of the new found calm in paradise.
1. Sail to Formentera
Release your inner pirate and rent a boat for the day with friends. Float over to Formentera where you can snorkel and swim. Experience the magic of its clear turquoise waters. I grew up next to the River Humber. The water there is a very disturbing shade of brown, so by contrast, I find Formentera waters to be something incredibly special. On my most recent trip, we drank several jugs of red wine sangria with plenty of fresh orange, grape, apple and lemon slices. To give it an extra kick, we mixed equal parts of vodka and peach schnapps with sweet & dry vermouth. A big thanks to Ivan from Algeria Boats who made the day such an unforgettable experience.
2. Eat at The Giri Cafe
In the quaint and idyllic village of San Juan lie some exceptional eating experiences. Of them all, I would highly recommend a visit to The Giri Cafe. You can eat dinner peacefully in the sunny gardens of a 300 year old townhouse. The menu is predominantly Mediterranean but with an exotic twist here and there. The avocado cheesecake is a must try for dessert. I would highly recommend their house Rosé offering as it was a delicious accompaniment. Rosa (the owner) is an incredibly warm and caring host who made sure our whole experience was beautiful from start to finish.
3. Paddleboard in Cala Xaracca
Paddleboarding in Ibiza is quite possibly my favourite thing to do. There is no experience quite as serene. Imagine floating along the water at sunset and feeling your troubles melt away. Before you go, blend a couple of peeled peaches with a little sugar so you can make a peach puree. Put it in a little bag along with some Cava for a cheeky Bellini cocktail whilst you’re out on your board. I mention Cala Xarraca as a good spot for this as on my last trip there (in late May), I was lucky enough to bump right into a group of dolphins mid excursion! I hear they have been sighted regularly lately due to the lack of boats and activity in the water. A truly magical experience. You can rent boards from SUP Ibiza – thanks to Germán for offering such an excellent service.
4. Hike up Sa Talalia
This one is for the early risers. Get up before the hot weather and climb to the top of Ibiza’s highest peak. It takes around 45 minutes depending on which route you take. There are stunning views of the entire island at the top. After all that hiking, it’s the perfect time of day to order a nutritious yet naughty Bloody Mary and a bit of breakfast to complete the perfect morning. We recommend heading to Project Social in Santa Eulalia, one of our favourite spots for this combo.
5. Have a Villa Party to Remember
The best villa parties that I have attended have always had a professional bar. It gives the added ‘je ne sais quoi’. The luxury element. Book a mobile bar and the staff. They will come to your villa and prepare phenomenal cocktails from the comfort of your home away from home. My favourite cocktails Southside Bars have been providing this season are Strawberry & Kiwi Margaritas, Peach ‘G & Iced Tea’ and Cucumber Moscow Mules.
So, there you go. The top five things I would recommend for summer 2020 to make your trip to Ibiza truly magical and unforgettable.
Lizzy Currie,
Southside Bars.