Ibiza, the Balearic island famed for its electrifying nightlife and bohemian spirit from the 1960s and 1970s, often conjures images of all-night raves and hippy havens. For many, including a couple of Gen X travellers, this iconic vibe had remained an elusive mystery until a recent autumn getaway to the island's tranquil north coast. The experience left them pondering why they had not visited sooner, sparking a journey to embrace Ibiza's legendary charm in a more laid-back manner.
A Village-Style Haven with Spectacular Views
Nestled on the east coast in Es Canar, the adult-oriented Fergus Style Punta Arabi serves as an ideal base for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Renovated and relaunched in May of the previous year, this hotel is just a thirty-minute drive from the airport, following an easy two-hour flight. Imagine whitewashed walls, abundant cacti, and pine-scented pathways leading to cliff-top vistas of the sparkling sea. Rooms exude cosy, boho-style vibes, offering a perfect sanctuary after a day of exploration.
The hotel's Lola Bar by the pool provides a range of delicious food and drinks, making it an excellent spot to flop and sunbathe. For an extra touch of glamour, guests can hire a Bali Bed for fifty euros per day, adding a luxurious element to their relaxation by the water.
Embracing the Hippy Heritage
One of the standout features of staying at Fergus Style Punta Arabi is the access to the island's largest and oldest hippy market, held every Wednesday from April to October within the hotel grounds. With over five hundred stalls, it is a kaftan paradise where visitors can purchase handcrafted jewellery, vintage fashion, and everything needed to achieve the quintessential Ibiza look. The laid-back atmosphere is enhanced by street food offerings and live music, creating a vibrant yet relaxed experience.
Culinary Delights and Local Explorations
For convenience, the hotel boasts several dining options. Breakfast at Es Mercat includes made-to-order omelettes, full English breakfasts, and a selection of Balearic continental meats, cheeses, and fresh fruits, all using local ingredients. Dinner is also served here, with one evening spent at Lola's Bar, enjoying tuna satay, burgers, gambas tacos, and cocktails against a romantic sea view. Es Raco Restaurant offers a bistro menu and premium drinks, ensuring a varied culinary experience.
Venturing beyond the hotel, a hired car led to the discovery of Hambre, a stylish restaurant in nearby Santa Eulalia. Attracted by its gorgeous interior and appealing menu featuring tacos, satays, fish dishes, and burgers, the couple indulged in pork belly with shallots, figs, and beetroot, paired with organic wine. The relaxed Spanish atmosphere made them feel right at home. For those seeking diverse cuisine, Calle San Vicente, known as Restaurant Street, offers a plethora of choices.
Beaches and Coastal Gems
Within walking distance of the hotel lies Playa de Es Canar, a main beach with shallow, calm waters ideal for families. Amenities include sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports like parasailing and pedalos, live music, and even sunset DJ sets, creating an atmosphere of understated fun. Nearby, the secluded Cala Nova beach offers a quieter alternative.
A particular favourite was Cala Llenya, north of Es Canar. This quintessentially Mediterranean haven, protected in a beautiful cove and dotted with stunning houses, is best visited early due to limited parking. A beach bar provides cocktails and sunbeds for ultimate relaxation.
Exploring Santa Eulalia and Beyond
Just a five-minute drive from the hotel, Santa Eulalia is the main town in the area, boasting a harbour that rivals glittering Marbella with its yachts. Quaint shops, boutiques, and street markets add to its vibrant yet refined atmosphere, distinct from the busier San Antonio and Ibiza Town. The town is renowned for its gastronomic reputation, with numerous restaurants and bars to explore.
Highlights include the Passeig de s'Alamera, a tree-lined promenade with outdoor sculptures, terraces, and craft markets, and the 16th-century Puig de Missa church, perched on a hill with panoramic coastal views. Santa Eulalia also features the island's only river with a Roman bridge, art galleries, and Casa Zobel for contemporary art. For the adventurous, Sant Joan de Labritja offers adrenaline-rush antics, such as jumping from a fifteen-foot rock into the sea.
Gentle Clubbing at a Legendary Venue
No visit to Ibiza would be complete without experiencing its nightlife, and Pikes, a legendary club in the hills above San Antonio, provided the perfect solution for a gentle clubbing experience. Founded twenty-seven years ago, this iconic location has hosted A-list celebrities and tourists alike, offering a fun and memorable night out without the need for all-night parties.
For those planning a trip, rooms at Fergus Style Punta Arabi start from €145.62 (£126) per night, including breakfast. This autumn escape to Ibiza's north coast proves that the island's hippy charm and clubbing nights can be enjoyed in a relaxed, laid-back way, making it an ideal destination for a short break with maximum impact.
