The evolution of an icon

As you turn down the dusty country road that leads to the doors of Cas Gasi, watch out for fluffy bunny tails bouncing off into the woods. This is where your Ibiza fairy tale starts, just beyond the pines, behind the vegetable gardens groaning with goodness, through the wooden doors and up the winding paved pathway to a white house on the hill dripping in pink bougainvillaea. Set amongst fertile farmlands between Santa Gertrudis and San Rafael, this 19^th century farmhouse is where owners Maga von Korff and Luis Trigueros raised their children before opening their doors to select guests two decades ago.

The whole property is imbued with the memories of family and the comforts of home. The path leading from the front gates to the main house and Cas Gasi reception weaves past a lushly green arbour, whose shade creates a lovely rest spot in the summer months. Glass-paned wood doors open to a lounge furnished with plush sofas and a coffee table full of art and photography books. In the winter months, the enormous fireplace is stacked with olive and almond wood, keeping the space cosy and warm – perfect for a glass of wine and a good book.

Maga herself is responsible for the interior design and the whole hotel is filled with art, family heirlooms and antiques. The ambience is unique and eclectic yet uncluttered – each and every object has a place and a story to tell. The 12 suites situated within the house and elsewhere on the property are luxuriously understated. With quality fixtures, high-end bedding, Design Guild fabrics and unique antiques, no two rooms are alike. New at Cas Gasi for 2020 are two Ibizan Palaces – luxury villas set apart from the main building, inspired by typical Ibicencan architecture and sleeping up to six guests – ideal for families, or groups of friends looking for discretion, space and privacy.

Beyond the Cas Gasi reception area is a secondary lounge where wooden French doors open to dense lawns. Along with the vast organic vegetable gardens, the grounds are brimming with native plants and trees. The pinks and purples of bougainvillaea drip over balconies, a circle of trees planted an aeon ago form a green sanctuary – look up towards the sky and their branches form the shape of a heart. The pristine swimming pool is chemical-free and has a garland of sunbeds that overlook the views across the valley. Golden rays of reds and pinks dance across the sky at sunset.

A second pool is dedicated to children, giving them the freedom to splash and play to their heart’s content. For grown-ups, the spa is the place to find Zen with its whirlpool, dry sauna, fully equipped gym and relaxation area. Personalised services are available, ranging from beauty treatments and massages to detox programs and fitness training. Yoga is also an important part of daily life at Cas Gasi, where guests are welcome to join the complimentary daily morning class or request private sessions with trusted professionals.

Every morning, the scent of baking bread, pastries and freshly brewed coffee fill the house. Breakfast is a cornucopia of seasonal fruits, much of it plucked directly from the gardens along with Spanish hams, homemade jams and local honey. Maga has long been a supporter of local farmers and organic practices and she strives to ensure every guest’s dietary needs are met. Fresh juices are available all day long, combining all your favourite flavours with health-boosting nutrients. Since Cas Gasi’s inception as a boutique hotel, the in-house restaurant has always been open to guests for lunch and dinner, and in 2020 – after decades of dreaming – another of Maga’s ambitions comes to fruition as she has expanded the restaurant concept and launched it to the public.

The winter months saw the hotel team transform what was once Cas Gasi Suite 115 – adjacent to the garden – into a dedicated restaurant, complete with an open kitchen and wood-burning oven to give guests an insight into what goes on behind the scenes when creating their meals. In high summer, dine alfresco on romantic tables scattered throughout the garden and expansive communal tables beneath the olive trees. In the cooler months, the stylish dining room features spacious arched windows that look out into the garden, so you still feel immersed within nature no matter what time of year you visit.

In keeping with the hotel’s ethos, all produce is locally sourced, with much of it coming directly from the onsite, certified organic garden. Just like the ingredients used, the focus of the new Cas Gasi restaurant is local cuisine, with renowned head chef David Reartes taking diners on a trip through Ibiza’s history, with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs and Catalans across the menu, not to mention some international flavours in keeping with the sophisticated crowds than began arriving in Ibiza in the hippie heyday. Think line-caught local fish, homely chicken casserole, Ibizan lamb (said to be among the best in the world) and plenty of vegan options that make the most of the garden’s plentiful bounty, plus carefully curated tasting menus that showcase the very best of the menu. Having only opened a few weeks ago, it’s currently one of the hidden culinary gems of Ibiza, but when word gets out among island foodies, there’s no doubt this stylish and secluded restaurant will be one of the most in-demand on the island.

With its position within the green heart of Ibiza, Cas Gasi is perfectly placed to be a launchpad for island adventures. The picturesque village of Santa Gertrudis is within walking distance or guests can opt for one of the hotel’s electric bikes to get them there. Filled with boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants, the area is a cosmopolitan hotspot. A short drive leads to the glamour of Ibiza town and the romance of Dalt Vila, the UNESCO World Heritage listed old town. Guests can also hop into Cas Gasi’s electric car and head out to any number of nearby beaches and coves. Ibiza’s coastline is one of the most striking in the Mediterranean, with towering red cliffs, secluded bays, sandy beaches and crystal waters.

Maga and her team boast a wide network of contacts, meaning yachting, day trips and other adventures are easily organised. With a deep love for Ibiza, the team are always pleased to share their local knowledge with guests, suggesting off-the-beaten-track destinations and unique experiences in addition to the iconic, most-requested favourites. Intimate and romantic, Cas Gasi is all about encouraging relaxation. This home-away-from-home is one of Ibiza’s most elegant boutique hotels, where personal service and discretion has always been part of the package. Every last detail is considered to ensure guests have an effortless vacation filled with the beauty of Ibiza at Cas Gasi – and amongst the challenges the world is facing these days, this is exactly what most modern day travellers are seeking when seeking some time out from daily life.

Nomadic creativity

What happens when a naturally nomadic, creative entrepreneur is forced into isolation for months? She finds ways to adapt her already unique Ibiza project to the ever-changing needs of the new normality, thus opening up a whole new world of possibilities. Rather than seeing the limitations imposed on cafés and stores due to the crisis as a negative, Tara Sfez of Numero 74 L’Atelier dug deep into the recesses of her mind in a way to find ways to transform her offerings to her (and especially her customer’s) advantage. As of mid-July, the flagship Numero 74 L’Atelier boutique and café in Santa Gertrudis has once again re-opened, albeit in a streamlined way, but with the added bonus that the team can now bring the fun, magic and flavours of the brand directly to your door.

Whether you’re staying in a villa, a hotel, or are simply living here in your own home in Ibiza, Tara has developed a variety of concepts – based on all the previous concepts found at Numero 74 L’Atelier – that can be experienced in the privacy of your own dwelling, or can be taken with you wherever you choose to go in Ibiza – be it a beach, on a boat or into the campo. “My wish with Numero 74 L’Atelier has always been that it is about experiences,” says Tara. “I see it as a creative laboratory, summing up all of the activities I’ve been involved in for the past 30 years – the first being a special events company, then a boutique, then the brand, Numero 74. To mix all this together, to create experiences for people in Ibiza – this is really what I’ve always wanted.”

The first offering outside of the store is based around cuisine; a selection of gourmet picnic baskets filled to the brim with tasty and delicious options tailored to suit your tastes. With Tara’s exquisite eye for style, it’s clear from the outset that this is not your average beach picnic catering – as she explains, it’s the entire experience. Clients receive a retro-style, handmade picnic basket (available in two sizes, for two or four people) with leather handles, with cool box lining for ultimate freshness, packed full of everything you need to create the perfect outdoor meal. Absolutely everything is environmentally conscious – from the glass containers the food is stored in to the cups and cutlery – is either 100% recyclable, or alternatively, is returned to Numero 74 L’Atelier along with the basket after your day out. A stylish woven table covering is also included, to spread over the sand, the ground or the table, depending on your preferred place of dining.

As for the food itself? Tara likes to describe it as cuisine that makes people happy. “You can order very healthy food, but we also offer things that are more traditional and hearty – like grandmother’s recipes – and dishes inspired from our travels around the world,” she says. “We use local and organic where possible, but we also know we have to offer dishes for all ages – when you order a picnic basket and you want the whole family to be happy, well… we just know from experience that for kids, you need chicken nuggets!” There area variety of customisable themes available, and must be ordered a day in advance to allow for the freshest produce and ingredients possible. Within your Numero 74 L’Atelier basket are an array of salads, dips, homemade breads, veggies, sweet and spiced nuts and dried fruits suited to the theme, plus of course, something sweet for dessert.

In its debut season, Numero 74 L’Atelier was known for its family-friendly, creative workshops. Due to new health and safety protocols, Tara quickly realise that families, or groups of friends holidaying together, may feel more comfortable participating in workshops in their own home, without needing to wear a mask – et voilà! Another mobile concept – or as Tara prefers to refer to it, nomadic – was born. Pottery wheels, weaving looms, watercolour/canvas painting classes, cooking classes, book binding, beach bag making – it all comes direct to your villa or home. Tara says the private workshops and activities can be tailored to suit all youngsters, teens and adults and the Numero 74 L’Atelier team can chat with you directly to work out the best type of activities to customise an approach for your group and its age ranges. For those who want to go a step further, Tara has also kitted out two vintage camper vans – ‘Giulia’, a beautiful dusky pink, and ‘Luca’, a lovely teal blue – that can be booked to deliver truly unforgettable events.

The sense of nostalgia here is like a glamorous version of camping with the family. The Numero 74 L’Atelier team arrive and style whatever kind of setting you’d like to lounge around in – be it picnic-style in your garden with cushions, or an outdoor living room complete with plush sofas and rattan chairs, or charming low wrought iron tables that work equally as well for adults and kids. You can order the picnic baskets, or alternatively, family-style portions of some of the restaurant’s best à la carte dishes – think quiche, tomato tarts, pasta salads and more – for after your workshops and activities, and if you really want to make a whole day of it, each van has a professional pull-down cinema screen to project your favourite movies onto as the sun goes down. For special events or birthdays, Tara has also devised a series of party themes (which again, can work equally as well for grown-ups as children), including fairies, explorers, seaworld, birds and artists. The themes come to life through creative styling, and even birthday cakes can be added in keeping with the theme.

Last but absolutely never least is the store itself – Numero 74 L’Atelier in Santa Gertrudis remains the beating heart of Tara’s entire operation. For those who remember the store and café in its debut season, you will notice some small changes – for example, the former buffet style lunches and breakfasts are now served à la carte (buffets are prohibited due to health and safety regulations), and also available to take away, served up in 100% recyclable materials if you’re on the go, as so many people in Ibiza are. Fortunately, the garden café space has always been expansive, which meant adapting to social distancing between tables has been no problem, and the layout of the boho chic space almost offers each and every customer their own private ‘VIP’ setting.

The boutique section of Numero 74 L’Atelier itself remains open to those seeking some stylish retail therapy while on holiday in Ibiza, and this year Tara is using the Ibiza flagship store as a place to launch new prototypes designed by the famed organic label. New for 2020 is a collection of thin, organic gauze cotton designs, ranging from dresses and pants to tops and more – if it proves popular with her core Ibiza clientele, the collection will be then sent into production for the rest of the world. Absolutely everything – be it the safe experiences in your own home, to the delicious cuisine created in the kitchen, or the organic cotton clothing and toys ethically made in Thailand – coming out of Numero 74 L’Atelier has been made from the heart, and with this in mind, Tara also plans to introduce new sale days in the store, for Ibiza families who love the brand but may not find the price points accessible in these times of crisis  – keep your eye on the brand’s social media accounts for more details. When it comes to Numero 74 L’Atelier, the new normality means flexibility, creativity and as always quality – for Tara, designing an experience that makes her customers happy is always at the core of her inspiration.

Hidden holidays in the heart of Ibiza

One of the most amazing things about Ibiza is just how close everything on the island really is. At 45 kilometres in length, to drive from the most northern to the most southern point of the island is extremely fast – faster than most people’s daily city commutes – and even to a seasoned local, it’s still quite surprising how much secluded countryside and how many hidden valleys are tucked away within the landscape along the way. When you hit the centre of the island, just a few minutes’ drive from the highway that connects all routes together, follow the signs down a winding camino and up over an olive grove hill to discover the magical family estate, Can Lluc – an Ibiza Agroturismo that welcomes guests from all over the world to experience authentic, Ibicenco hospitality and style.

The hotel – once the family’s farmhouse – was transformed into its current incarnation by a husband and wife team whose backgrounds couldn’t be further from hospitality back when they started, but whose love for life as hoteliers can no longer be surpassed. Owner Lucas Prats (the grandson of the property’s original owners) is actually a lawyer by trade, and for him, Can Lluc has been a 20-year labour of love. Over those two decades, the Agroturismo has expanded from the rooms within the finca, into a splendid 20-room boutique rural hotel. With a genuine passion for the island and its natural environment, coupled with the desire to share that combination with guests, the Can Lluc family project has delivered much satisfaction and success to Lucas and his wife Tina. Most recently, the hotel received recognition from the renowned boutique rural hotel website guide, Rusticae, in the Best International Product category for 2019.

Back in 2000, when Lucas and Tina made the decision to renovate the finca, there was no running water or electricity on the property. Armed with just a vision of its future potential, the couple set out to develop the family farmhouse step-by-step, firstly converting the two bedrooms in the main house, followed by the stables and storehouses, and with the later addition of six independent deluxe suites across the grounds, “In the beginning I resisted,’ admits Tina, looking back on the Can Lluc project. ‘We had young children at the time and it was a lot of work to take on, but then… I fell in love with the project too. The truth is, it’s very gratifying to be here, and so satisfying, because you meet lots of people, and you see that you are making them happy. You are sharing something that is yours and you want your guests to love it as much as you do.”

The personal touches throughout Can Lluc, in addition to its welcoming family atmosphere is certainly what attracts so many satisfied customers to return year after year. Aside from the all the luxurious elements you’d expect of a high-end hotel – think high quality bed linens, deluxe minibars, deep soal bathtubs with massage features, coffee machines and Smart TVs in every room – there is also a more relaxed and laid-back feel to the Agroturismo that truly allows clients to make themselves feel at home. Guests are encouraged to set their own schedules, in line with whatever their personal vision of a dream holiday encompasses – for example, if you’re a night owl and/or a late sleeper, there’s always somebody on hand to find you a breakfast if you find you’ve slept in past midday at Can Lluc.

Sleeping, resting and relaxing is almost always the order of the day for anyone staying at Can Lluc. Many of the hotel’s guests first discovered Ibiza in their partying 20s, and now return to the island looking for peace and tranquility – often with children on board too. Even pets are welcomed at Can Lluc – after all, man’s best friend is an important member of your family and deserves a holiday too! The careful and very clever configuration of rooms means that none of the guests are overlooking anyone else, and all of the premier suites even come with their own private gardens, complete with daybeds and outdoor showers for the ultimate in discretion and privacy. Set amongst the olives trees and palms a little further away from the older buildings, there is an expansive feel to the entire property, where gardens provide solitude and isolation when needed, with little walkways created leading to rooms or out into the campo.

Covering over ten hectares of land, the olive groves of the estate are continually being restored, and Can Lluc now produces its own olive oil – served in the restaurant, and occasionally given away as gifts to a lucky guest or two. A gently sloping footpath to the rear of the buildings leads up to a perfect spot for viewing the entire valley and beyond at dusk (or any time of the day, really!). After Tina discovered guests were heading up that way to watch sunset on their own accord, she added a Balinese bed to the top of the hill, creating a romantic viewpoint which looks out to sea over the bay of Cala Conta, just right for catching that uniquely Balearic experience, preferably over a bottle of chilled bubbly for two, which the restaurant is only too happy to supply.

Guests at Can Lluc can choose between the poolside chiringuito, or the breakfast terrace, or room service for private dining during their stay, but the in-house restaurant is a destination in itself when it comes to finding the freshest and natural ingredients, lovingly prepared using locally sourced produce as far as possible. With an indoor and outdoor terrace space, it’s a great choice for weddings, events or special occasions too. An ever evolving menu makes the most of the local seasonal harvests and dining beneath the stars is the kind of relaxed and welcoming ambience that Can Lluc has built its reputation on.

Set even further back from the stables, Can Lluc also offers a private family villa that sleeps up to five people, with its own kitchen, living and dining room and the same hotel facilities as the rooms or suites. A guest-only wellness spa with sauna, Jacuzzi and massage area is also tucked amongst the trees below the swimming pool. With so many great facilities, and so much space to accommodate guests without ever feeling crowded, it’s no wonder Can Lluc is so popular with holidaymakers, families, corporate retreats, and wedding parties alike. The authentic magic of Ibiza, tucked into a valley only moments away from its most popular beaches, villages and towns, this Agroturismo exactly sums up why so many of people from around the world are in love with this island: pure and simple perfection.

Modern comforts with a vintage soul

After spending months in lockdown, it’s inevitable that some Ibiza residents – not to mention the eager tourists who are set to arrive on our shores in July – are ready to make a change. For some, it might be a new career direction or embracing a new way of living. For others, a simple change of scenery can be like a breath of fresh air after staring at the same four walls for 12 weeks. And then there are those who want to freshen up their look after the extended time spent in yoga pants and hoodies. While the first option is up to the individual, Nicky Le Boedec-Lambley – owner and curator of Ibiza concept store Skandish – can help with the rest.

The eclectic chic Santa Gertrudis boutique has an overall feeling of homeliness about it. It captures the much-hyped feeling of hygge that the Danish are renowned for through a variety of beautiful collections all sourced by Nicky herself. These range from retro-chic homewares and luxurious organic beauty products to eco-friendly self-care items and stationery, plus soft, tactile and comfy clothing that is timeless, stylish and easy to wear. Walking into Skandish feels a little like stepping back in time – the vintage-inspired aesthetic is reminiscent of the 70s: a colour palette of rich earthy colours, offset with burnt orange, pastel pink and turquoise green. There’s something intensely comforting about the experience – and that’s exactly the type of feelgood ambience Nicky sought to create when she opened the store in 2018.

As the name suggests, the store is comprised of pieces that possess a British soul and sensibility or a Scandinavian aesthetic. Brands hail from both regions and are a testament to Nicky’s eye, and indeed, her travels. Fortunately, just prior to the lockdown restrictions being announced in Ibiza, Nicky had done all her seasonal buying which means that now it has re-opened, Skandish is full to the brim with beautiful new goodies for islanders to treat themselves to. “I always say the whole shop is a treat,” says Nicky, who has been happy to reconnect with her regular customers over the past weeks, as they’ve made a beeline for the boutique to give their homes and wardrobes a post-pandemic overhaul. “It’s a lovely feeling having that connection with someone. It starts when they’re a customer and you end up becoming friends – that’s the best part.”

If the thought of the endless handwashing, sanitising and moisturising (which we all know needs to continue) of the past months has you wringing your hands at the thought of soaping up yet again, Skandish offers a host of organic handwashes, soaps and lotions that feel truly luxurious as you lather up. Skandinavisk is a brand that fits particularly well into the shop’s ethos – founded by a Brit who fell in love with a Scandinavian – with its luxe bioplastic packaging (which can also be recycled after use) made from sustainably farmed sugarcane, soft comforting fragrances that have names like ‘LEMPI – Vintage love’ and ‘SKOG – calm of the boreal forest’, plus the very apt ‘ØY – Island solitude’. The brand’s candles make a 16 and 50-hour candles make a wonderful gift, whether for yourself or a friend – as do the British-made Plum & Ashby candles found on the adjacent shelves, with earthy scents like ‘Green Fig’, ‘Heather & Hay’, ‘Lemon & Ginger’ and more.

Another stand-out brand at Skandish is Evolve Organic Beauty – an English brand with a vegan, cruelty-free and eco-friendly approach. All Evolve products are handmade in small batches in the brand’s studio in the UK to ensure the extracts, oils and antioxidants in the products are as fresh as possible. From ‘Superfood Shine’ shampoo and conditioner, to ‘Skin Saviour’ body oil and polish, ‘Daily Detox’ facewash and even tinted SPF cream, its natural ethos fits right in with the positive changes we’re all hoping to see in the world. Other beauty must-haves Nicky has acquired include La Bruket body creams, face scrubs and creams by SHUI Botanicals (made right here in Ibiza) and frizz-taming Curly Ellie hair products. Personal care products by Truthbrushes (no prizes for guessing what that is), shaving brushes, hair brushes, nail brushes and even brooms by Swedish brand Iris Hantverk give the store even more eco-credentials – you can even find wooden scissors and a stapler for the home office!

HKliving is an accessibly priced Dutch brand that features prominently on the shelves at Skandish – predominantly through its homewares, beautifully presented in colourful stacks on a vintage hutch near the store counter. Spot ceramic pieces inspired by 70s kiln-fired dinnerware and mugs, in funky fun colour combos that can be mixed and matched, plus cool handblown glassware that at first glance appears decades old, but on closer inspection reveals the modern quality. Glassware and vases made by artisans for by NKUKU are the perfect complement, along with planters, tea pots and mugs that look as if they’ve been plucked from the set of The Partridge Family. Rugs, lamps, cushions and art are also prevalent throughout the store – it may be a small space, but it’s easy to get lost for hours perusing the shelves.

For those who are already out and about, enjoying the ‘new normality’ that the island’s bars and restaurants are currently offering – surely that’s as good an excuse as any for a new outfit. The rails at Skandish showcase a beautiful selection of patterned and monochrome dresses, retro-inspired shirts, kimono-esque wraps, stylish bikinis, wide-legged pants, light scarves that are ideal for chillier nights at this time of year, and more. Quality is key and the idea is that each piece can be worn for years to come – there are no fad trends or one-season wonders. Key brands include One Hundred Stars, Hod, Chloe Stora and Mapoesie among others, and for basics, it’s impossible to resist the stacks of ultra-soft, comfy cosy American Vintage pieces – the neutral colours make them easy to pair with the rest of your wardrobe, while the high quality fabrics make your feel as though you’ve been enveloped in a hug.

While the prices at Skandish are indeed accessible, for those seeking a bargain after the challenging past months, Nicky has a ‘sale rail’ placed opposite the new collections. Here you’ll find one-off pieces leftover from last summer, although to the untrained eye it’s impossible to identify them as ‘last season’ due to the timeless nature of the designs. At the rear of the store is the final piece of the Skandish puzzle: the ‘Nearly New’ section. This little pocket of pleasure offers, as the name suggests, unused, unworn or unwanted items sold on consignment for customers – obviously vetted by Nicky personally. Jewellery, kitsch décor, picture frames, designer clothes, handbags and more have been known to make the cut, adding yet another eco-conscious jewel to the already impressive Skandish crown. Whatever you’re seeking, however you’re feeling – you’ll find a way to treat it through retail therapy at Skandish.

Hidden paradise

There are very few spots on the island that still feel like a secret. Other than uninhabited coves you need to hike or boat to, it seems that all corners of Ibiza have been discovered, designed and filled with a roster of DJs. But, there is still one destination that remains a little slice of how Ibiza used to be, back in the day. Yep, the good old days. Raco Ibiza is one-part restaurant, one-part bar and one-part private members club, and a little slice of paradise in the heart of the island. Hidden in the wilds of San Rafael, just moments away from the village but a million miles away from the frenzied vibes happening elsewhere, it is a true haven for those seeking to be far from the madding crowds.

At first, driving through a rural area, past a horse racing hippodrome and along a winding country road, you feel like you may be getting lost until suddenly, a large boulder painted with glittering gold letters spelling out Raco Ibiza looms large out of the foliage. Above it is a metal globe sculpture surrounded by flags of the world – a testament to the ethos that all are welcome here. An arched entrance opens to a grown-up playground that could be straight out of the pages of Alice in Wonderland. There is croquet and petanque, plus table tennis, billiards and darts laid out over quirky nooks and lush lawns. Rustic wooden cabanas house a juice bar, a coffee bar and, of course, a regular bar where the cocktails are sublime and always served with a smile.

There’s a feeling of eco-chic around the grounds of Raco Ibiza. Days spent lazing by the pool over breakfast accompanied with a freshly squeezed juice is the epitome of laid-back island life. Just a few hours later, the lunch menu consists of Mediterranean classics and global favourites. Hunker down with a friend and enjoy the seafood frito mixto with tartare sauce and a three-dip plate with guacamole, pea hummus and babaganhoush with a side of edamame. Then slipping into cocktail hour is a natural phenomenon and likely to induce intense feelings of euphoria.

Other culinary delights on the Raco Ibiza menu include a trio del mar featuring ceviche, octopus with olive sauce, and garlic prawns. A classic Caesar Salad is a go-to classic lunch choice but it is also hard to resist the fresh Burrata with three kinds of tomatoes drizzled in pesto – so why not order both? The Bali-style sea bass comes with rice, pak choi and pico de gallo while the Raco Ibiza version of a club sandwich and chips delivers a naughty-but-tasty punch. Bowls include a salmon poke and a bibimbap – an Korean cornucopia of rice, vegetables grilled steak and kimchi topped with a poached egg. Hearty, healthy and delicious.

There may not be a sea view at Raco Ibiza but the all the inner tranquilly of Ibiza is felt dancing over the breeze as it glides through the surrounding forest and over the treetops. It has become the perfect post or pre-work stop-off point for locals, island-wide in summer – a place they can catch up and connect without any chaos. Raco Ibiza is beloved by residents for its inclusive vibe and hidden location, but absolutely everyone is welcome. It really is the place for those in the know, attracting the fresh-faced young guns wishing to fly under the radar and leave the VIP behind. This place is all about being comfortable; judgement is left firmly at the door.

Raco Ibiza is ideal for catching up with friends, hanging out with your lover or just some solo time to yourself, letting all your stress and worries slip away on the breeze. You can be guaranteed a peaceful ambience thanks to a no kids policy and the gentle soundtrack means recharging your energies is a cinch. Grab a buddy or grab a book, and nab a sunbed, hammock or table beneath the shade for the ultimate in Ibiza style relaxation. As the sun descends, allow your body and soul to melt away into bliss.

Events are somewhat of a speciality at Raco Ibiza, with all or parts of the property available for private gatherings. Low-key birthday celebrations, anniversary cocktails, pre or post-wedding barbecues – whatever your occasion, Raco Ibiza has the right combination of venue, food and drinks. True to its nature, things are kept simple yet stylish, relaxed and cool, and the warm and welcoming team are on hand to assist in creating an unforgettable experience.

Completely unique to the island scene, Raco Ibiza delivers a sensibility rarely found on in Ibiza these days. Tranquil, easy-going and unpretentious, the atmosphere harks back to an earlier era where island life was about connecting with friends, rejoicing in simple pleasures and staying in the present. This secret oasis is the ideal location to step out of the rat race and into pure relaxation – but shh! Let’s keep that our little secret.

Aladdin’s Cave

There are some people in life for whom mundane simply isn’t enough. These people seek the magic in the ordinary; the rare in the everyday – they push beyond horizons when reality starts to feel like traipsing through sludge. Nicky Le Boedec-Lambley is very much from this ilk. Owner of Skandish, a chic Santa Gertrudis concept store that’s an ode to all things beautiful and stylish, the feeling to up sticks from the UK and move to Ibiza to start a fresh life was irresistible to her. “I’m a great believer in the idea that you only live once,” she says. “So we thought, you know what, let’s do it.”

To many, this may seem like a brave move, but Nicky has lived a life that’s threaded with the cultures of many places – from Japan where she was born, to Hong Kong and the UK, where she lived over the years, and Mallorca, where she spent sun-kissed and happy holidays with her family growing up. Drawing on those special memories, but wanting somewhere more intimate to lay roots, Ibiza seemed like a natural fit. “We wanted somewhere small so that in winter it felt more alive,” the Skandish founder explains. “We’ve been in Ibiza for over seven years now.”

Once settled on the white isle, Nicky started crossing off additional criteria, namely, fulfilling her desire for creativity. A potent presence throughout her life, she studied art foundation and textile design at university, and always displayed an uncanny ability to identify striking aesthetics. When looking for work in Ibiza, the next logical step was to combine all those talents. “People used to love the personal things I had in my home, and while that kind of creativity is very different to buying things for retail, I thought perhaps I could put that skill into a shop,” she says. “I knew I had an eye for nice things so I trusted in that.” And so, Skandish was born…

The store is an emporium dedicated to Nicky’s favourite international styles – one that has proven popular with the current Balearic aesthetic. “Essentially Skandish is a collection of all the things I love,” she explains. “But almost everything has a connection to that British or Scandinavian look. That’s what I connect with.” At the start, Nicky travelled extensively to cities like Copenhagen and Malmö, handpicking the items that she liked, but these days it’s more of an organic process based on the labels she’s discovered and knows she can rely on. That said, whenever she returns to London she can’t resist a day spent wandering the streets. “I love to see what’s new and contemporary, whether it’s clothes or furniture or art,” she adds. “I love shopping so there has to be an element of that!”

A slew of stylish designers sit alongside one another at Skandish, creating a treasure trove you can dive into with gusto. “It’s an Aladdin’s cave,” says Nicky. “People don’t really know where to start looking – because there’s a bit of everything, it can be hard to choose!” But as any avid shopper will attest, that’s a good position to find yourself in – whether you know exactly what you’re looking for, or if you came in for a browse and got caught off-guard and spoilt for choice. “The store is designed so that you can treat yourself,” she says. “But it’s also really great for gifts.”

When you consider the rich list of brands available at Skandish, it’s no surprise the store has become a clued-up islander’s go-to for presents. From the laid-back luxe of American Vintage clothing and the chic but affordable homewares of HK Living, to the all natural toiletries by Plum & Ashby and the handmade wooden brushes from Iris Hantverk, it’s easy to pop in for a birthday gift and leave laden with goodies (quite possibly for yourself). “My aim has always been to bring things to Ibiza that you couldn’t find here,” Nicky explains. “I hate online shopping myself so I thought why not bring the items here instead – and make them different and quirky.”

The pricing policy at Skandish is also a refreshing one for Ibiza. “I try to make sure I cater for everyone,” Nicky says. “I try to keep clothes around the 100€ mark, so that anyone can come in and spoil themselves.” In addition, there’s also a ‘nearly new’ section that’s full of rare finds – the idea being that customers can bring in their old or unworn garments and make a little money themselves, while also finding barely worn items a new home. “I love selling old stuff and recycling old furniture,” she says. “There’s a lovely a balance to it.”

Indeed, there’s a general feeling of cyclicality at Skandish, especially now that Nicky’s 19-year old daughter, Emily, has become more involved in the day to day running of the store. “She’s young and she’s got this amazing sense of style,” says Nicky. “Emily brings an element to the shop that I don’t have. It’s great to have her take on things – she wants to have her own fashion line one day, so it’s helpful for her to see the other side of the business.” Never one to sit back and be comfortable, Nicky is always working to improve the store, in the process offering people in Ibiza something new and different. “Life isn’t always easy” she admits. “But coming to work is always a pleasure, because I’m finally doing something I want to do.”

In a rustic, campo reverie

At this time of year, a veil of magic descends across the entire island, and those fortunate enough to experience it find themselves in a dream-like trance, one they hope will never end. This is especially true at Aubergine Ibiza, a quintessential Balearic treasure that encapsulates all that’s authentically enchanting about this fair isle. Here, you pray that lunch lasts forever and dinner endures, because we all want time to stop in paradise. Set within the dusty surrounds of the fertile Santa Gertrudis countryside, Aubergine Ibiza is what’s classified as a bona fide gem. Cherished by locals and visitors alike, the restaurant is a symbol of all that’s great about the island – delicious food, effortless decor and fabulous company. Part of the much-revered Atzaró Group, it has country-chic style in abundance, yet it remains unassuming, laid-back and easy-going. Hours spent here seep away into the ether, while subconsciously setting up memories that last a lifetime.

The action centres around a traditional rustic finca and its dreamy alfresco terraces. Inside, whitewashed walls are accented by pastel green trim, dried local herbs are dotted about the room, and the odd comfy cushion is strewn here and there. Outside, the olive colour scheme continues with elegant iron furniture, alongside carefully crafted lampshades and an abundance of flora that covers the soft cement floor, climbs up wooden pillars and is potted on walls. It’s a masterpiece in subtle, calming design, a space that’s been created to ensure guests feel at home and stay for as long as they like. You’ll notice adults, kids and pets enjoying all it has to offer – everyone is welcome here. Naturally, the culinary offering is as aspirational as the setting. The majority of ingredients are plucked straight from the surrounding farmland, so Aubergine Ibiza has become one of the most well-known restaurants on the island for offering farm-to-table fare. The result is dishes that are full of earthy flavour and that hard to recreate home-cooked feel. Take the barbecue, for example. Squid with grilled potatoes, garlic and peppers, sea bass with spring onion and cherry tomato, and lamb chops with aubergine and honey all feature.

From the à la carte menu, try mouth-watering options including mini pizza with aubergine ceviche and tapenade, crispy borek – a spinach and feta cheese cheese pastry with tomato and black olive salad, or the restaurant’s signature dish, a classic sliced aubergine baked with parmesan. The restaurant is also famed for its hearty range of salads, so be sure to sample the pumpkin salad with feta cheese, dried tomatoes and pistachios or scallop salad with orange, red onion, avocado and a peanut, honey, lime and chilli vinaigrette in your order. Then it’s just a matter of choosing from the lengthy selection of Aubergine Ibiza specialities. Dishes like Turkish aubergine stuffed with beef, lamb, honey, creamy yoghurt sauce and tahini, quinoa risotto with the freshest farm veggies, mushrooms, parmesan and truffle oil, and bacon and the hearty Ibiza cheese Angus burger served with homemade fries are unabashed favourites. The biggest problem at Aubergine Ibiza? You’re simply spoilt for choice!

The enticement doesn’t end there, because Aubergine Ibiza also serves as a creative space as well as a culinary hub. There are exhibitions running throughout summer featuring artists including Simona Marziani and Hjordis Fogelberg Jensen, as well as famous Dutch hat designer, Anne Van Kettle. You can catch live music performances on Tuesdays, and every Sunday, the venue comes alive to the tune of music, art and a selection of irresistible bites. A meeting place, a dining destination steeped in local charm, Aubergine Ibiza has it all. Here’s to those spellbinding Ibiza days. Long may they continue.

Food for the soul

One place that manages this seemingly effortlessly, however, is Las Dos Lunas, a restaurant now in its fourth decade with no signs of stopping. Consistently delivering dishes rooted in its hearty Italian heritage, while simultaneously infusing an international twist, it’s no wonder this restaurant has become a favourite among the A-list, and is now ranked among the island’s true culinary gems. Located just outside San Rafael, within walking distance of both Amnesia and Privilege, Las Dos Lunas has been casting an ineffable spell over diners for years. Tucked away behind towering rustic walls, shaded by bountiful bougainvillea and drenched in a shameless cloak of romanticism, there’s just something about the setting here that sets it apart from other restaurants. That’s all part of its unique appeal, because while trends come and go, Las Dos Lunas remains true to its identity, and that’s what draws people back like magnets each and every summer.

Someone who’s played a pivotal role in the restaurant’s continuing allure is head chef Luciano, who has been at the helm of the creative kitchen since 2000. Hailing from Italy but with long periods spent in Germany, Scotland, and of course, Ibiza, he is proud to have created a menu that has stood the test of time, while also being able to showcase his natural flair for the craft. “The plates at Las Dos Lunas look very simple,” he explains. “But actually, they’re not simple at all. Our plates have taken inspiration from some of the world’s best restaurants.” The deliciousness of each dish can in part be attributed to first class, organic ingredients, some of which are sourced from a local, ecological farm, but primarily what makes them sing is the chef’s passion for authenticity – all the dishes you eat at Las Dos Lunas are the real deal – there’s no need for fancy trickery when the recipe speaks for itself. “Everyone thinks that a Milanese is just breaded meat, but it’s not,” he smiles. “This is the only place on the island where you can eat a truly authentic Milanese. Or a risotto, or fresh pasta, or tomato sauce.”

For Chef Luciano, creating magic is all about the products used and the original spirit of a recipe. “We try to work without transforming too much, without changing the essence” he explains. “A fish needs to taste like a fish. Money has never been an issue when it comes to buying products, and this is reflected at Las Dos Lunas.” But he’s modest of course, because a menu’s success also lies with the aptitude of the chef. “I’ve been here for so many years that what’s on the menu now has been chosen out of 500 dishes,” he says. Nevertheless, two or three specials are still added to the list every day. “It comes from inside of me,” he adds. “I suppose it’s like an art.” This all feeds back into the Las Dos Lunas ethos of purity. Here, they’re not chasing fame and fortune. It’s just all about the experience; the craftmanship. With this in mind, this year Las Dos Lunas has launched a menu in memory of the famous 19^th century composer Gioachino Rossini, who was a well-known gourmet enthusiast. This one-off menu features an exquisite selection of carefully curated dishes: Meat Cannelloni, Tournedó Rossini, Chocolate Cake with lemon sorbet and mint, to be paired by Las Dos Lunas’s iconic Cocktail Rossini, a bubbling combination of champagne and strawberries.

Even this uniquely designed menu is rooted in Italian gastronomy. “The thing is, these are all things that my family at home would make,” explains Luciano. “My grandmother and mother would be in the kitchen making these dishes. I’ve grown up with these flavours.” He continues: “What’s important for us is to stay classic and traditional. We have no plans to modernise what we’re doing.” What you get at Las dos Lunas is food for the mind, body and the soul, and there’s nothing more iconic than that.