Retreat to ME Ibiza this summer

High summer is here, and it seems Ibiza is once again the holiday capital of the world with its beautiful beaches, buzzing gastronomic scene and renowned laid-back lifestyle attracting discerning travellers from across the globe. While hustle and bustle can be part of the island’s appeal, it’s also reassuring to know that there are still quiet corners to be discovered; places where you can retreat from it all and still enjoy the finest cuisine, soak up the Balearic sunshine, relax and indulge in wellness experiences, and sleep in style – all without leaving the comfort of your home away from home. ME Ibiza, the luxurious resort set on the coast of S’Argamassa on the island’s east coast, is such a place – the kind of place you check in and never want to leave.

A hotel that’s about so much more than just sleek and chic rooms and suites (that’s simply a given with 174 rooms and 26 suites plus the private villa style Three Bedroom Ultimate ME+ Suite with Private Pool and Sea View to choose from), ME Ibiza brings the best of Ibiza directly to guests through its Aura Team – an in-house concierge service specialising in local culture, cuisine and creativity. The essence of Ibiza is woven throughout the hotel’s spaces, from art and design to fashion and gastronomy, so that from the minute you arrive you feel embraced by the island’s true spirit. The Aura Team is on hand 24/7 to help you experience an alternative side to Ibiza, that once discovered, will never be forgotten. Whether that’s within the hotel, or out and about exploring the island, is totally up to you.

Set on a tranquil and picturesque corner of the east coast, ME Ibiza is a place where you can retreat from the crowds and still experience the best of Ibiza.

Foodies will love the plentiful choices on offer at ME Ibiza, starting with luxe buffet-style breakfasts complete with show cooking at Bianco Mare. Dip in and out of the pool between fresh fruit, eggs as you like them and freshly brewed coffee to start your day off right, then head to the beach where you can listen to the sound of the crystalline waters gently lapping the shore. Just a few minutes from the buzzing town of Santa Eulalia, yet worlds away in terms of peace and tranquillity, S’Argamassa feels like the retreat of your dreams, with perfect water for snorkelling, swimming or simply taking a midday siesta on the sand.

When lunchtime rolls around, take a few steps back into the chic surrounds of the hotel and make a beeline for the Origens Restaurant, where the panoramic sea views are matched by contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and a relaxed boho style. Dishes are fresh and light, made with local, seasonal ingredients and perfect for a hot summer day – teamed with icy cold jugs of sangria, chilled rosé, it’s easy to linger long after lunch is over to just enjoy the vistas. Of course, if you’d prefer to try one of the island’s famous chiringuitos (beach restaurants), The Aura Team can arrange for smooth transfers, the best tables and even recommend what local delicacies to try.

No matter how you choose to spend the day – on the beach, by one of the pools, being pampered in the Thai Room Spa & Wellness, or exploring Ibiza – it’s always a pleasure to return to your suite and get ready for the evening ahead. As the sun starts to go down, there’s no better place to enjoy the ambience at ME Ibiza than the spectacular RADIO ME Ibiza Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, where you can start with expertly shaken and stirred cocktails before sitting down to a deluxe dinner of freshly grilled fish or meat dishes to the sounds of a chilled-out soundtrack courtesy of resident DJs. Alternatively, head back to Bianco Mare for hearty and wholesome cuisine, ranging from delectable homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas to fresh fish and classic Mediterranean dishes.

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you need to skip your wellness routine, and The Aura Team can arrange private yoga classes, meditation, personal training, guided hikes, massages, treatments or any other kind of self-care you’re looking for. Each morning, guests have the chance to take part in ME Ibiza’s signature wellness classes overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, designed to challenge your mental and physical limits while encouraging a sense of calm and helping to connect you to the magic of Ibiza. And speaking of the island’s magic, if the magnetism of the famous Ibiza party scene is calling, you needn’t look any further than your own backyard at ME Ibiza. The Ibiza outpost of iconic global beach club Nikki Beach is right next door to the resort, meaning you don’t need to worry about transport, taxis or queues when the party mood strikes.

At ME Ibiza, fantastic food, wellness activities, Balearic music, plus fun, sun and style are all right on your doorstep.

Ask The Aura Team to book you a table for lunch or a daybed for enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the legendary Amazing Sundays party, where special guest DJs and artists are joined by saxophonists, electric violinists, and percussionists that are guaranteed to get you up and dancing, or pop in on Thursdays in July and August for Waves & Moves, where DJ Grazze spins Balearic-inspired sets that connect you to the island’s spirit. In September, Thursdays are all about Roots & Bites, as Terra Masia – Ibiza’s leading organic farm – teams up with the Nikki Beach Ibiza kitchen for a culinary collab like no other, and then on October 1, the venue gets set to close for the season but not without The Last Sunset – a day of non-stop music, dance and celebration.

Back in the chilled-out sanctuary of ME Ibiza, days and nights blissfully merge into one as you immerse yourself into island life. The same relaxed pace, personalised and attentive service, high-level cuisine and amazing views that make the resort a true holiday haven are also the elements that make ME Ibiza a dream destination for weddings. An expert in-house wedding planning team creates tailor made events (including pre-wedding cocktails, bridal party pampering, boat charters, post-wedding brunches and much more) that your nearest and dearest will remember long after their summer suntans fade away, and the hotel’s varied backdrops and sea views make for the most stunning photo opportunities.

The beauty of ME Ibiza is that there’s something to suit all vacation styles within its oasis-like setting. With plenty of serene corners for chilling out in private, romantic dining settings plus the adults-only rooftop infinity pool, it’s a beautiful escape for couples; meanwhile for families, there’s a fun kids’ club to keep little ones entertained while parents relax and unwind under the shade of the poolside palms and umbrellas.

For friends or families looking to experience a villa-style group holiday without having to forgo the luxuries of a five-star hotel, booking a stay in the Three Bedroom Ultimate ME+ Suite with Private Pool and Sea View gives you the best of both worlds – your own private holiday home with all the comforts and indulgences of ME Ibiza, including the services of The Aura Team, on your doorstep. ME Ibiza is an island retreat that allows you to experience Ibiza at your own pace and make summertime memories that will last forever.

A summer for the senses – Hotel Riomar Ibiza  

In a quiet, waterside corner of Santa Eulalia, a place where the only river in the Balearics meets the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, sits Hotel Riomar Ibiza, a modern lifestyle boutique hotel where timeless luxury is blended with wellness and events for the benefit of guests and visitors alike. Perfectly positioned on the beachfront of the idyllic east coast town, with golden sands stretching out before it and blue skies up above, this stylish property seamlessly combines the yin and yang elements Ibiza is famed for in the curation of energising day and nighttime experiences. Here, you can awaken your senses, find balance and ignite your soul, all in the space of a day.

Hotel Riomar Ibiza’s signature restaurant, Ocean Brasserie and Bar, is a wonderful introduction to the venue’s multifaceted appeal. Open daily between 11.30am and 11pm, this peaceful alfresco restaurant channels the calm beauty of sand and sea, inviting hotel guests and visitors to switch off and slide into laid-back holiday mode on its picturesque terrace, whatever the time of day. Gorgeously chilled during the afternoon, pop in to try an ice-cold spritz or fizz from the new dedicated menu — the bubbly wild berry spritz and pink fizz is a refreshing must when the sun is at its brightest.

Drop-in, chill-out, move your body, socialize with friends, dine on the newly revamped menu, catch a movie and experience an authentic island fiesta.

Kick off your sandals and adopt a slower pace for dining too, because the cuisine at Ocean Brasserie and Bar is designed to be savoured slowly. This year, the menu features an innovative summer refresh, and dishes of note include tasty bluefin tuna poke served with avocado, cantaloupe melon, nori, rice and wasabi pearls; tender lamb cutlet with Ibizan rosemary potatoes; succulent grilled octopus with chilli-garlic crushed potatoes and padron peppers; and decadent black truffle tagliatelle with parmesan. Don’t miss desserts too, with the creamy Riomar cheesecake, made with Balearic cheese and red berry jam, worth a special mention.

Feasting accomplished, guests and visitors are welcomed to soak up Hotel Riomar Ibiza’s carefully curated happenings, a series of thoughtful and inspiring events designed with community in mind. Yoga plays a key role in this, taking centre stage of the hotel’s wellness programming on select mornings each week. Relaxing, hour-long sessions unfold at Tribe, a colourful, secluded garden cocooned from the outside world. Thursdays have a restorative focus, Fridays are for hatha devotees, and Saturdays and Sundays channel the more energetic Vinyasa style. Surrounded by nature, it’s easy to tap into pure bliss here.

Yogis with an intensive practice will be keen to celebrate the impending full moon in Capricorn, a time to nourish roots and set direction for the coming months. To celebrate, Hotel Riomar Ibiza has invited Cosmopolitan UK’s Tarot Reader, Kerry Ward, to lead a dedicated workshop and question and answer session on July 03, 2023 from 6.30pm. Kerry will also be providing one-to-one readings for a lucky group of up to five people. A Full Moon Yoga Retreat is also scheduled, featuring a mini yoga flow, meditation, and culminating in an intentions workshop to harness the power of the lunar cycle.

If you’re more fond of relaxation without any effort at all (we’re all that person sometimes), there are plenty of additional options at Hotel Riomar Ibiza. Perhaps you’d like to spend a sun-soaked day on a luxury sun lounger, in which case a day pass – including food and drink – is perfect for living the life of luxury. Ideal for residents, or those staying elswhere on the island but looking to tap into the ambience of Hotel Riomar Ibiza, the feeling here is of peace tranquility and freedom.

Hotel Riomar Ibiza boasts an exceptional program of curated alfresco events this summer, designed to satiate all the senses and ignite the soul.

As the sun nears closer to the horizon, a different mood descends on Hotel Riomar Ibiza. Afterwork takes place at Ocean Brasserie and Bar every Thursday between 5pm and 8pm, and it’s an opportunity for like-minded guests and locals to embrace the end of the working day with some cool cocktails and tapas in a stunning setting, so you can really leave the stresses behind. Meanwhile, Fridays are all about Cuban Nights, when the vibrant, rhythmic beats of the central American country fill the air on the Ocean Terrace between 9pm and 11pm, and spontaneous dancing should be expected. Que bola! 

To further take advantage of those balmy Mediterranean evenings at Hotel Riomar Ibiza, Starlit Movie nights are scheduled for June 14 and 28, 2023, and twice a month on Wednesday evenings thereafter. Kicking off at 8pm, the ticket price includes a glass of Juvé & Camps Cava, one pizza, and of course, popcorn – watch this space for the list of carefully curated film titles that will be screened over the course of the summer. The perfect excuse to make memories beneath the beautiful Balearic stars.

Finally, in a nod to Ibiza’s ancient traditions, Hotel Riomar Ibiza honours the island’s past with a magical fiesta on Friday June 23, 2023 to commemorate the festival of San Juan. Featuring dynamic live music performances and a pop-up store featuring a range of local Ibiza brands, this celebration fuses two pillars essential to Ibiza life: heritage and partying. Occurring just two days after the summer solstice, it’s a sure sign that the season is finally in full swing, and for guests and visitors to this striking boutique hotel on the beach, that couldn’t come as better news. Be sure to reserve your place so you don’t miss out!

Beachside bliss

Now that spring is in full swing and the temperature gauge is steadily rising in Ibiza, naturally our attention turns to thoughts of sun-kissed beach days — finally, we can say adios to winter! Time then, to tune into the sound of the waves at K·OBA by UM in Santa Eulalia, which promises to banish all memories of the colder months and replace them with visions of sunny perfection and plates full of vibrant, delicious food. Now open for its second summer season, the secret is out amongst local foodies – now, don’t waste a minute in discovering what this beautiful seafront sanctuary is all about.

There’s been a steady increase in the number of must-visit venues opening in Santa Eulalia over recent years. The east coast seaside town has become something of a foodie hotspot, attracting the world’s best talent to its shores and reinvigorating the seaside gastronomy scene in the process. K·OBA by UM is at the fore of that movement. Located at the end of the picturesque promenade (towards the river), it boasts swathes of glorious beachfront all to itself and unparalleled views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as it stretches out to the horizon and beyond. 

Now open for its second summer season, the secret is out amongst local foodies – K·OBA by UM is a gastronomic gem on Ibiza’s east coast.

Light, airy and imbued with the kind of laid-back vibes that only Balearic beach clubs can deliver, K·OBA by UM invites instant relaxation. Taking its cue from nature’s textures, the decor is oh-so-beach-chic, with bamboo chairs placed perfectly for soaking up views, jute cushions scattered at low-slung tables, and chunky wooden tables facing out to sea so you can marvel at the beauty of it all while tucking into the tastiest fare. Bamboo shades cast shadows all the while, offering respite from the sun’s heat and dancing across the sandy-coloured floor as the earth spins.

Much like everything at K·OBA by UM, the dining concept embodies a certain lightness that’s easy to love. Bringing a modern twist to Mediterranean fusion cuisine by mingling plates with Japanese influence, every aspect of the menu has been carefully curated to showcase the very best of each culinary tradition. Classics sit happily alongside more creative dishes, and diners are encouraged to share — after all, moments here are all about making memories. Plates are delivered to the tables at intervals too, because there’s no rush here and the biggest luxury you can be offered is time.

The incredible views at K·OBA by UM are matched in quality by the cuisine, cocktails and curated soundtrack provided by some of the island’s finest DJs.

‘Social plates’ – as they’re dubbed on the K·OBA by UM menu – span a mouthwatering variety of flavours and styles. The signature steak tartar K·OBA is served with pane carasau and chipotle mayo, while the more-ish chicken crunch comes with a Japanese-inspired mayo. For freshness, it’s hard to go pass the the zucchini carpaccio accompanied by spiced dried tomato, parmesan flakes, truffle pearls and wild rocket – a taste sensation on its own – or the impressive vegan K·OBA salad, featuring Kamado braised avocado, yogurt and herb sauce, fresh vegetable crudités, baby spinach and pistachio pesto. Iberian ham is a must-have on any Spanish table, as is a creamy burrata salad served with tomato slices, basil oil and pine nuts.

For those more reluctant to share (yes, we’re looking at you!), there are plenty of delectable K·OBA by UM plates that can be kept all to yourself. Pasta and rich dishes include a holiday-esque spaghetti with clams, red shrimp and chilli, and a twist on traditional black rice with squid and lime mayo. Heavenly meat options range from succulent Iberian pork cut cooked at low temperatures and finished on the grill, served with apple sauce and baby vegetables, and a melt-in-your-mouth entraña that’s bursting with flavour. Fans of fish should try the Asian-inspired salmon served with sauteéd edamame and teriyaki, or the fresh snapper with kimchi mayo, pistachio gratin, vegetables and baby potatoes.

Whatever the occasion, whoever you decide to go with, and whether you book a table by day or by night, be sure to savour every second.

There’s also an entire portion of the menu devoted to delicious Japanese fare. Starters include a classic wakame salad with avocado in a sesame dressing and ikura, as well as crispy rice with guacamole, marinated tuna and black tobiko. And there’s plenty of fresh sushi to sample – perfect for those hot summer days. From California rolls and tuna maki to ebi tempura rolls, salmon nigiri and tuna sashimi, there’s plenty to whisk your tastebuds away on a whirlwind international tour. Finish with a dessert like tiramisu or lemon pie or start as you mean to go on and dive into the inventive K·OBA by UM cocktail list – if you hadn’t already been tempted!

All of this is soundtracked by relaxing Balearic beats – tunes that span the sonic spectrum from funky to soulful with a touch of disco, afro-beat and jazz, representing the freedom of the location and making K·OBA by UM a dream destination when the sun is shining and the sky is bright blue. Grab a partner or a bunch of friends and settle in for a day date, or head there for a magical moonlit dinner. The chic and stylish venue is also available for events for up to 200 people, making it a fabulous fit for weddings, special occasions and private events. Whatever the occasion, whoever you decide to go with, and whether you book a table by day or by night, be sure to savour every second.

A new season dawns at ME Ibiza

Spring brings fresh energy to Ibiza and with it, the excitement for what’s to come — languid days spent at the beach, meals shared beneath balmy blue skies, and perhaps most of all, the opportunity to make new memories with friends and family, to be stored away for years to come. ME Ibiza on the salty shores of S’Argamassa is the blank canvas on which all of this unfolds. A peaceful and nourishing retreat for mind, body and soul alike, it’s the perfect place to seize the opportunities provided by a new season and unleash imaginations from the chill of winter – and it’s reopening on Wednesday April 05, 2023.

Set back from a tree-lined stretch of coastline where golden sand meets the sparkling sea, ME Ibiza is a luxe escape – and naturally, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, Virtuoso and Fine Hotels and Resorts – this hotel in Ibiza is one that perfectly blends isolation with easy access to all of Ibiza’s famous hustle and bustle. Nestled in a corner of paradise on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Santa Eulalia, the picturesque setting, creative and contemporary cuisine, and a fabulously curated series of culturally inspired events are more than enough to stimulate curious minds, but with the bonus of having one of the island’s most idyllic settings on your doorstep for those moments when white isle wonder comes calling.

A secluded beachside paradise on the outskirts of Santa Eulalia, ME Ibiza is the perfect place for shaking off the winter chills.

Once you’ve checked into the luxurious resort, there’s little that can tempt you away from the stylish surroundings and the newfound peacefulness stirring in your heart. Mornings can begin with unhurried walks on the beach, afternoons can blossom on private boat excursions that leave directly from the ME Ibiza jetty, and evenings can — in true Ibiza style — be left to unfurl at leisure. Perhaps you’ll head to the Radio Rooftop Bar for cocktails with starry views or reserve a table at one of the hotel’s two first-class restaurants, or maybe you’ll simply bask in the sheer joy of having absolutely nothing to do at all and order room service – often the best luxury of them all.

It’s easy to slip into that state of mind at ME Ibiza, which is more of a lifestyle experience than a hotel stay. That fact is further reflected in the collection of 200 guestrooms available, each representing a cool Mediterranean aesthetic of clean lines, calming colours and an abundance of space. There’s an option suitable for everyone too — from solo travellers and couples to large cohorts of family and friends. Keep it simple with the Always ME garden view rooms or upgrade to include a Superior ME Sea View and Terrace, or go the Extra ME+ with the aforementioned vistas and terrace with an added Jacuzzi and personalized service — the same polished ME Ibiza ethos applies regardless.

Find new season inspiration in the stunning surrounds, captivating cultural program and first-class cuisine from April 05, 2023.

For those wanting to indulge in the ultimate ME Ibiza luxury stay, there’s the Three Bedroom Ultimate ME+ Suite with Private Pool and Sea View – a private villa-style dweeling located just moments away from the hotel itself but with all the services you’d expect from a five-star experience included. Offering more than 400 metres squared of beautifully designed space, with a private pool overlooking a tranquil garden and the gently lapping waves of the Mediterranean, it’s the home away from home that’s been the focus of your daydreams in the past, now miraculously brought to life.

Once fully immersed into the laid-back swing of ME Ibiza life, it’s time to explore the pretty, well-manicured premises, where two stunning pools are the focus of daily sunshine rituals and communal areas are brought to life by talented local artists. Up at Radio Rooftop Bar (open to external guests), settle in for panoramic views by the adults-only pool, freshly made cocktails whizzed up by one of the talented mixologists, and beats provided by a rotation of resident and international DJs. An inspired calendar of events is also always a fixture here too, with the cultural program for summer 2023 soon to be announced.

The restaurants, bars and spa at ME Ibiza are all open to external clients, in addition to hotel guests, attracting like-minded people from around the globe

For the budding newlyweds out there, it’s worth noting that ME Ibiza are Ibiza wedding specialists, and where better to exchange lifetime vows than on the blissed-out shores of this Balearic island? In typical ME Ibiza style, ceremonies held here are both contemporary and captivating, with a backdrop that’s hard to beat and a dedicated team on hand to deliver meaningful, aspirational events. The same goes for corporate and other social events, of course, where debate can replace flower arrangements and in the absence of a blushing bride and gushing groom, team talk can take precedence.

A design hotel that’s focused on all the little moments that collide to make a full life, ME Ibiza is aims to be more than just a place to lay your head. It’s about digging into the Ibiza way of life and revealing what makes it special; it’s about creating memories inspired by culture and landscape; it’s about making space for seeds to flourish and grow. The dawn of a new season is almost here and the horizon has never looked more inviting – reservations are now open for the entire 2023 season at ME Ibiza.

Eternal flame – La Llama

As dusk falls into evening and the summer sky starts to glitter with stars across Santa Eulalia Bay, luxury resort W Ibiza flashes with an understated excitement. The shining glass doors at the entrance are constantly revolving with glamorous guests and visitors intent on making their way past the reception desk and through to the hotel’s signature restaurant, La Llama. While it’s not actually a secret, La Llama still feels like a clandestine bolthole, thanks to the cleverly concealed entrance that gives little clue as to what lies beyond.

But first, to The Bridge! Set on the platform across the iconic W Lounge and acting as a conduit between the hotel entrance and La Llama, this sleek and stylish cocktail lounge is where your night begins. Here, expert mixologists build bespoke cocktails for guests as they wait to be waved into La Llama for their evening reservation. Libations in a multitude of colours and flavours slide across the bar before guests seem to disappear into thin air, drinks in hand. On closer inspection, a thick wooden wall just beyond the bar reveals itself to be an automatic door, periodically sliding open allowing guests to slip into La Llama, momentarily revealing an epicurean vision pulsating with energy to those still on the outside. 

La Llama means ‘the flame’ in Spanish and upon entering the restaurant, the source of the name becomes immediately apparent. The beating heart of La Llama is its vast open kitchen, the glossy stainless steel surfaces reflecting flaming pans, busy chefs and beautiful food. La Llama’s cuisine oscillates between the flavours of Israel and many from around the globe, spanning various cultures from Australia to Ukraine with a generous dash of the Med. Dishes invite diners to experience the primal aromas of fire and smoke, infusing each ingredient with an ancient context displayed through modern techniques.

While its sleek and buzzing interior wouldn’t be out of place in New York or LA, the stunning sea views from the lengthy terrace plant La Llama firmly in Ibiza. There’s just a hint of Bali to the vibe too, with the combination of a dusky palette and sleek black furnishings while palm trees tower above. Vibrant music is the uniting element – enveloping guests and the team into a jovial synthesis. The sophisticated crowd are impeccably dressed, laughing, flirting and eating with abandon. After all, eating is what they came here to do, and when it comes to cuisine, La Llama certainly doesn’t disappoint.

The first task, of course, is perusing the menu, starting with cocktails or wine. La Llama’s wine list is one of the most extensive on the island, offering drops from around the world. An experienced sommelier is on-hand to help find the perfect match for your palate, and your menu choices. Cocktails here are well-crafted and those wishing to pace themselves can opt for delicious low-alcohol and non-alcoholic combinations. While you’re pondering your choices, a plate of taboon-baked focaccia appears, accompanied by a quenelle of smoked butter and pots of olive tapenade and an intensely flavourful zhug – designed to be pulled apart and savoured, it’s the perfect beginning to a meal that appeals to all the senses.

The La Llama menu has a distinct focus on expertly grilled meats but vegetarians and pescatarians will also find a plethora of flavour-filled starter options to choose from. Most notably perhaps, the corn salad – a fresh melange of barbecued corn, labneh, herbs, fermented lemon, almonds and ras el hanout – already has its own legion of loyal fans. Sashimi-style celeriac comes with a yuzu, tabasco and buttermilk sauce topped with green peas and olive oil. There’s also toro tuna tataki, cured sardines, and octopus with pumpkin tahini. Meanwhile, meat lovers must try the basturma – homemade beef pastrami crowned with an abundance of parmesan.

And now, for the main event: select cuts of first-class meats from around the world are the star of the show at La Llama. Choose between tender buey, dry-aged for 70 days, or the prestigious Portuguese Minhota, dry-aged for 45 days, succulently tender and evenly marbled – both are available as prime rib, tomahawk or tenderloin, depending on the size of your group, your appetite and your preference. There’s also the ultra-premium Wagyu – grass and corn fed with a rose buttery marbling – the entrecote hails from Hida Gyu in Japan, while the rib-eye comes direct from Michifuku in Chile. All are exceptional and require very little in the form of accoutrements – aside from a decadent sprinkling of sea salt or perhaps a dab of one of the chef’s homemade salsas. You have reached barbecue nirvana.

In addition to melt-in-the-mouth grilled meats at La Llama, three pasta dishes – including black pasta with jumbo shrimp, and potato and leek tortellini with Baerii caviar vie for attention with Dover sole and a delectable rendition of traditional Israeli H’raime – sea bass with rich tomato gravy, sour cream, preserved lemon, charred chilli and challah bread. It’s also advisable to leave room for dessert because executive pastry chef Sheila Castells‘ knafeh is astonishing – a spun pastry dessert from the Middle East served with goat cheese and orange blossom syrup, while the yuzu lemon pie is tart and sweet in all the right spots served with gluten-free confit of lemon crumble, lemon cake, yuzu cream, toasted meringue and mini basil leaves.

After dinner come the trays of espresso martinis because while the meal may be over, the night has only just begun. Just as they arrived, guests depart La Llama in a cloak of secrecy. Time to see where the Ibiza night takes you, whether back to your suite at W Ibiza, onto a superclub or out onto the silky sands of the beach for a sunrise stroll before bed.

Open from Tuesday to Saturday, La Llama delivers high-end gastronomy with an edgy ambience and world-class service, embracing the island’s reputation for hedonism and transforming it into an urbane and chic experience. A sophisticated venue that ignites the senses and stimulates the soul, every evening spent here is like an unforgettable dream – one that burns bright like an eternal flame.

Escape for some ME time

It’s been the summer we didn’t dare to dream of just six months ago; the island busy with international travellers, hotels and restaurants filled with smiling faces, idyllic weather and a sense of freedom in the air. And the best thing is – it’s not over yet! Ask any islander and they’ll tell you September is the best month of the year to escape to Ibiza – whether for a weekend, a weeklong stay or even longer – and luxurious five-star resort ME Ibiza is the perfect place to check in and chill out.

A serene pocket of paradise on the island’s east coast, the best of Ibiza is on your doorstep when you stay at ME Ibiza, although with so much on offer within the hotel, it would be easy to spend your entire holiday onsite. This season’s steady stream of guests report that the hotel’s offerings are better than ever, with an incredible luxury spa, the new world-class Lebanese haute cuisine NOURA Restaurant & Pool Bar, plus the much-loved Radio Rooftop, the classic Bianco Mare experience and of course, that picturesque swimming pool overlooking the calm and tranquil Med.

With a luxurious spa, daily yoga, world-class restaurants and two swimming pools, ME Ibiza is the perfect place to escape for some late season bliss.

Travelling is made easy at ME Ibiza. In 2021, the hotel’s already stringent standards have been elevated to include additional cleaning and hygiene protocols that ensure the health and safety of guests, be it in your suite, in the restaurants, at the gym, in the spa or by the pools. Luxury transfers to and from the airport can also be arranged – in a stylish white Range Rover no less – so you can skip the busy taxi queues and let someone else tend to your luggage, so your check-in is fast and seamless. Once you’ve settled into your Suite at the sophisticated resort, you’ll receive priority access to all hotel facilities – from pre-reserved day beds and restaurant bookings to spa treatments and complimentary daily yoga classes.

While all the chic, calming and airy rooms and suites at ME Ibiza are divine, guests staying in the exclusive ME+ Suites also receive round-the-clock access to the renowned Aura team, who can help personalise and book itinerary recommendations to suit your holiday style. This is in addition to memorable extras such as fresh flowers in your suite, complimentary pet amenities (your furry friends are welcome here), personalised welcome gifts, an unpacking service, complimentary ironing, a surround sound system and much more. The idea is that you needn’t lift a finger once you’ve arrived at ME Ibiza – unless it’s to sip a cocktail by the pool!

Mornings at ME Ibiza are a laid-back affair. Rise at your own leisure – whether you’re the kind to catch the sun rise (at a pleasing 7.30am come September) or you prefer your blackout blinds to stay firmly closed until you wake – and take your breakfast at the stylish ground floor Bianco Mare restaurant. From here, it’s a slow meander to the tranquil pool to soak up the early morning rays or you could join one of the complimentary yoga sessions on the stunning rooftop – traditional mat-based classes or the sky-high anti-gravity sessions that give you a bird’s eye view over the sea.

The Thai Room Spa & Wellness area is also found in a quiet corner of the ground floor at ME Ibiza. Open to the public (by reservation) as well as to hotel guests, the serene space is like a holiday within your holiday. Step inside and be transported to Southeast Asia, complete with a spa circuit to help you relax (even more) into the experience. Native Thai therapists bring the healing massages and treatments from their homeland to Ibiza – from traditional dry massages or with oil, warm or hot, with or without aromas, plus scrubs, wraps, facials and more, there’s a treatment to suit your every mood. Relaxing, energising, uplifting, stress-relieving, revitalising – your experience can be completely customised to match your needs.

This season, ME Ibiza guests report that staying within the resort is more than enough to satisfy their Ibiza summer holiday dreams.

Lunchtime rolls around and you can take your pick between the fun-in-the-sun vibes at the highly acclaimed NOURA Restaurant & Pool Bar or opt for the casual Mediterranean dining experience at Bianco Mare, boasting Italian-inspired dishes and wood-fired pizzas so good they are almost addictive. If you’re ready or a change of scenery, ascend to the ME Ibiza rooftop where you can book a Bali bed experience and dine within the comfort of your own cabana. Each dining destination is also open to the public via reservation and tables or Bali beds can be requested via the ME Ibiza website.

The addition of NOURA to the ME Ibiza collective of in-resort eateries is a masterstroke of gastronomic genius. The well-established culinary brand boasts outposts in Paris, Cannes and Monte Carlo, and so Ibiza was the logical next step. At ME Ibiza, the heady tastes, spices and herbs of Lebanon and the Middle East are fused with the very finest organic local produce and served up in a playful yet elegant poolside setting – a true fusion if ever there was one. Open from midday until midnight, NOURA takes inspiration from the four corners of the Med, serving up healthy haute cuisine that is every bit as delicious as it is beautiful.

The addition of the playful yet elegant NOURA Restaurant & Pool Bar to the ME Ibiza collective of in-resort eateries is a stroke of gastronomic genius.

As the sun goes down, the vibes heat up at ME Ibiza, whether you’re enjoying the sunset with a side of dinner and drinks from the Radio Rooftop Bar, or cocktails and a decadent dinner at NOURA. DJs spin the soundtrack beneath the Balearic stars, twinkling in the beautiful reflection of the Med below. Monthly full moon events on the rooftop have been a star attraction in 2021, with the next event taking place on September 24, 2021. Speaking of events, weddings have made a very welcome return to ME Ibiza in 2021, as happy couples can once again invite their nearest and dearest to Ibiza to celebrate their nuptials overlooking the sea.

With the home stretch of this dreamlike Ibiza summer season just around the corner, there’s no better time to escape to Ibiza for some ‘ME’ time with your best friends, your loved ones, your family, or – in the truest sense of the word – fly solo if you really want to disconnect. Spend your days and nights wandering between chilled-out pools, peaceful yoga decks and vibrant restaurants, the tranquil spa and stylish rooftop terrace and of course, your beautiful suite, from sunrise to moonrise and back again. When the mood strikes you’ve also got the buzz of Santa Eulalia and its promenade, family friendly beach, popular restaurant and bar scene just around the corner, although many guests report that staying within the magical ME Ibiza bubble is more than enough to satisfy their Ibiza summer holiday dreams.

Barefoot luxury and beachside bliss

The world around us is constantly changing and adapting to new ways of living, socialising and even entertaining. When it came time to design their 2021 guest offering, the team at Nikki Beach Ibiza looked at the ‘new normal’ as an exciting challenge. As innovative and vibrant as ever, the iconic beach club has delivered on every front, from food and beverage to entertainment, events, community and overall luxury. Suffice to say, the 2021 Nikki Beach Ibiza season is more impressive than ever.

Nikki Beach Ibiza is a paradise discreetly hidden in a pine-shaded cove on the east coast of the island, on the outskirts of Santa Eulalia. Accessed via a side street and through a façade that doesn’t give any hint as to what lies on the other side, stepping through its doors feels like Dorothy stepping into technicolour Oz. Stop first at the colourful photo wall for a picture-perfect setup before you’re greeted by the panoramic, frontline Mediterranean vista. Blue skies and endless sea views complement the iconic crystalline waters of the restaurant and beach club’s sun-kissed swimming pool and stylish décor. You’ll be taken to a chic all-white daybed or earthy wooden table, where your authentic Nikki Beach Ibiza experience begins.

As innovative and vibrant as ever, Nikki Beach Ibiza delivers on every front, from food and beverage to entertainment, events, community and luxury.

As a leading culinary destination, the Nikki Beach Ibiza team prides itself on delivering an elevated gastronomic journey. Thanks to farm-fresh produce, local flavours and ingredients, the latest catches of the day and the finest cuts of meat, it’s no surprise that the cuisine concept shines at Nikki Beach Ibiza. All tastes, appetites and dietary requirements are catered to on the extensive à la carte menu. When each dish is created, presentation is a priority, with some of the brand’s ‘Global Favourites’ being created and plated live at your table or in mobile food stations around the venue.

This season’s menu features upgrades including the addition of an all-new Lobster Linguine that will make your taste buds sing, alongside the classic Nikki Beach Ibiza favourites such as the Famous Chicken Satay, Miso Glazed Aubergine and Piri Piri Roasted Free-Range Chicken. Many dishes were added with a special focus on vegan cuisine including the flavour-packed Vegan Marrakech Falafel Salad. Another new star dish is the Sushi Pizzetta, a deconstructed sushi platter that uses crispy rice as the base topped with raw salmon, tuna, mango, tobiko, spicy mayonnaise and more. It’s the perfect addition to the brand’s already extensive sushi specials.

All tastes, appetites and dietary requirements are catered to on the extensive à la carte menu at Nikki Beach Ibiza.

Commitment to supporting the local community is a huge part of the Nikki Beach Ibiza ethos. The brand believes that this is more important than ever and by supporting one another and working alongside local suppliers and artisans rather than importing goods, the venue’s carbon footprint is lowered. The Nikki Beach Ibiza Burrata Salad is created with extraordinary creamy cheese which is made right here in Ibiza at the La Buratella laboratory. Nikki Beach Ibiza has also introduced a weekly farm-to-table lunch every Wednesday from September onwards, working exclusively with local organic farm Terra Masia to create a three-course set menu for just 55€ per person, including wine or water. From the earth to your plate, it doesn’t get much more KM0 than that.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a summer season in Ibiza without the weekly Nikki Beach Ibiza Amazing Sundays Brunch and the team have really pulled out all the stops in order to elevate the former buffet into something as creative as it is satisfying. But how do you create a buffet brunch if your guests can’t go to the buffet due to the current health and safety regulations? The answer? Bring the buffet right to the tables. Forget waiters with overloaded trays… you’ll experience live cooking shows right at your table, you’ll see special food stations set up where you can order tacos, paella, noodles, seafood and oysters, fresh and healthy salads, hearty barbecue – all the things you know and love from an Amazing Sundays Brunch, served with a twist.

Nikki Beach Ibiza is synonymous with joy as the brand’s motto is to ‘Celebrate Life’ every day!

After your meal is finished, let Nikki Beach Ibiza’s mixologists bring the bar to you, with two different cocktail trolleys on rotation around the tables and sunbeds. It’s another form of tableside entertainment, featuring new cocktails with special creations in partnership with Avion tequila alongside the elevated wine list featuring fantastic rosés, reds and whites. This personalised service continues around the pool, where guests spending the day on a sunbed are treated to a dedicated Sun Butler in collaboration with beauty brand Cotril. Let your butler bring you a complimentary fan, water or Cotril sunscreen and after-sun samples for your day in the sun.

Nikki Beach Ibiza has always been synonymous with celebrations – the brand’s motto has always been to celebrate life every day, something we all appreciate more than ever after the past 18 months. And while we can’t dance with reckless abandon with our feet in the sand (yet!), there’s nothing to stop you kicking off your shoes and tapping your toes while shimmying your shoulders to the carefully curated musical roster, ranging from DJs every day with special guest live bands, guest saxophonists, violin players, the Trumpet Twins and more. And rather than keeping their musical guests on a pedestal, they’ll also be moving about the venue and bringing their instruments poolside and around the tables, further adding to the celebratory ambience.

Vibe to the carefully curated music and entertainment roster at Nikki Beach Ibiza with your toes in the sand.

There’s a range of special events in August, from ‘Vibe with your TRIBhE’ with special guest DJs and bohemian inspired performances beneath the sun to Dream, a collaboration with private jet company Aero that took the signature Nikki Beach Ibiza entertainment to new heights. On August 15, enjoy a special edition of Amazing Sundays Ferragosto Brunch featuring a Capri-style integration with Italicus wines as well as all the usual brunch fun with an extra Italian twist. There are also Seas The Day pool experiences, Sounds of Summer live music events, Saturday Live! and Make it Happy events taking place throughout the month.

In addition to the live action of the weekly events at Nikki Beach Ibiza, there also is a season-long photography exhibition by X-Plorar. Take a deep dive and admire the works of award-winning photographers inspired by the sea or purchase your favourite piece to take home with you. In keeping with Nikki Beach Ibiza’s commitment to caring for the local environment, 25% of the sale price of every photograph is donated to IbizaPreservation, a local organisation dedicated to preserving our land and sea. At the same time, X-Plorar has partnered with One Tree Planted and will plant one tree for each purchase, so by investing in art, you’re also investing in our global future through reforestation. Additionally, Nikki Beach Ibiza donates one euro from every table bill to IbizaPreservation in an ongoing effort to support the foundation.

There’s something for everyone at Nikki Beach Ibiza! Whether you’re an island resident or a jet-setter, remember the Nikki Beach motto: ‘Tell Only Your Best Friends!’

Diversity in design

Designing, building, renovating, landscaping, interiors, exteriors, lighting, plumbing, carpentry, styling – oh my! In the early stages of any Ibiza residential project, there’s so much to consider and for a homeowner, it can feel as though the end stage is a lifetime away. Enlisting Bloom Studio Ibiza – a full-service architecture and interior design studio – takes away any stress and uncertainty out of such works, as the team of on-island experts sees projects through from concept to completion with a clear vision and unrivalled creativity – not to mention a meticulous and achievable time frame. At a time when many people are seeking to create a home that truly is their haven, or invest in a second home where they can seek solace from the world when needed, the Bloom Studio Ibiza team are in high demand.

Specialising in high-end residential projects – ranging from new builds to large-scale renovations or restorations – Bloom Studio Ibiza was founded by British-born and qualified architect Kit Maplethorpe in 2016. His experience in Ibiza dates back to 2011, both independently and in collaboration with the island’s biggest names in architecture and project management. Prior to that, Kit worked his architectural magic on luxury homes in the UK after qualifying as an architect in 2007. As the demand for his services and expertise on the island increased (through word of mouth alone), expansion was the next logical step and Kit assembled a dream team of architects and interior designers hailing from technical, creative, artistic and production backgrounds – Bloom Studio Ibiza was in business.

Today, the team is headed up by Kit, who combines his creative prowess with the technical skills of his colleague Sam Benoist Jackson, an experienced architect who specialises in the finer details such technical drawings, designing carpentry packages, mechanical engineering, electric lighting plans among other elements. Rather than using a signature style or typical brand aesthetic, Bloom Studio Ibiza work closely with each client, opting to design unique concepts that align with each project’s location and the owners’ style and needs. Their strength lies in the ability to develop a bespoke home concept, then break it down to the very finest degree – from the way shelves are fitted to how different materials junction with one another, documented through an intricate series of 3D drawings so there are no hidden surprises throughout the process. They take the vision and build it virtually, to ensure it can also be implemented onsite.

While the brand’s heritage is based heavily in architecture, it wasn’t long before Kit realised he needed to extend the Bloom Studio Ibiza services to include interior design and decoration. It’s only natural, after all, that when a new home or renovation is complete that it will also require decoration, and keeping the styling on par with the design of the home ensures a consistent feel, and authentic essence, throughout the house. This is where the style-savvy skills of Ibiza-based interior designer Sarah Elkabas – who boasts a background in international fashion styling – comes in. Alongside her assistant Florence Gillot, who joined the team in recent years, Sarah works tirelessly to source one-of-a-kind pieces that are j-u-s-t right for each project, and often collaborates with designers to develop bespoke furnishings from beds and sofas to alfresco dining suites, chill-out beds and much more.

Together, the Bloom Studio Ibiza team are an incredible asset to any Ibiza project. When architects and interior designers are involved on a project together from day one, the creative and functional possibilities become endless – not to mention much more achievable than if you were to approach the design and decoration of your home as two separate tasks. While Kit and Sam are working behind the scenes to create stylish and functional spaces, Sarah and Florence are getting to know their clients tastes and lifestyles in order to be able to kit out each space with not only the right aesthetics, but also with furniture and décor that works in tandem with the property, and the people who use it. Being able to switch off from the technical side of things, and think in terms of beauty, ambience and functionality, allows them to think outside the box, while staying true to the style of the building – needless to say, there are no cookie cutter interiors in any Bloom Studio Ibiza project.

This ethos runs to the exteriors as well. For Kit and Sam, no two projects are alike, and this diversity in their work is just the way they like it. Slick and contemporary new builds, rustic ancient farmhouses transformed into family homes, urban structures in the heart of the countryside and ultra-luxe finca restorations that breathe new life into an old home – the original style of the house and its location influences the architecture throughout, from the structural layout of the interior spaces to the terraces and gardens. It’s all about balance. The entire team at Bloom Studio Ibiza love the challenge of working with a property refurbishment – finding solutions to their client’s needs within the existing structure, and drawing on their varied experience and vast knowledge to make them a reality.

The flow between the architecture and interiors is evident in every project – absolutely everything – be it the tapware in a bathroom or kitchen, to the art on the walls, the ceramics in the kitchen or even the lighting and soft furnishings – has been chosen to be client-specific. Sarah has a huge database of luxurious brands she can draw on when needed, however much of the furniture used in Bloom Studio Ibiza projects is bespoke. Sarah prefers to design pieces that fit with the house, understanding that each project is completely personal and just as no two houses are alike, nor are the people who live within the spaces. Her well-honed intuition means she suggests pieces of furniture before you even know you need them – a rare skill on an island where instant gratification is often the driving force behind interiors – and if it doesn’t already exist, she has the contacts to have it custom-made to order.

While each of the key team members at Bloom Studio Ibiza are creatively driven, no technical detail is overlooked and the foursome have spent years building up a portfolio of trustworthy contacts, from the very best plumbers, electricians and carpenters on the island, to builders and other tradesmen. There’s no fear of a ‘mañana mañana’ work ethic when embarking on an Ibiza project with Bloom Studio Ibiza – from the initial conceptual drawings, through to tender, project management and then the finishing touches with furniture and décor, the works are seen through personally on a day-to-day basis by the team themselves – right up until the moment the owners fly into Ibiza and are handed the keys to their home. Most projects are completed within a nine month time frame, with various projects in different stages all year round, meaning that for Kit, Sam, Sarah and Florence, every single day is different, keeping them inspired, motivated and passionate about their work.

Awash with luxury

The arrival of the all-new W Ibiza on far south end of the Santa Eulalia promenade was perhaps one of the most hotly anticipated hotel openings on the island in recent years. After briefly opening its doors – along with its newest restaurant concepts – towards the end of summer 2019, the luxurious seafront resort closed for further development in the winter months (like most resorts in Ibiza) and then, well, along came COVID-19. Fast forward through the global lockdowns and travel restrictions, and today the resort is finally open and welcoming travellers from around the world – both as hotel guests and visitors to the luxurious facilities alike. It’s an opening that has been well worth the wait.

The hotel boasts 162 incredible rooms and suites, and its food and beverage offerings include the already established Chiringuito Blue – just a hope across the promenade onto the sandy beach – and the plant-based eatery Ve Café, as well as glamorous gastronomic heart of the hotel, La Llama, curated by renowned chef Haim Cohen. In addition, W Ibiza’s Wet Deck and W Lounge offer guests chic and sophisticated spaces in which to lounge in safe (socially distanced, of course) surroundings, sipping on cocktails, listening to music from resident DJs and international guests, and snacking on a creative menu from day to night. With Ibiza’s nightlife scene temporarily on hold in 2020, holidaymakers are increasingly seeking luxurious day experiences and W Ibiza ticks all the right boxes.

Like a much more relaxed version of a beach club, Wet Deck is a private poolside terrace that also boasts direct access to the beach, should you wish to break out of your W Ibiza bubble and feel the sand in your toes at any time throughout the day. Speaking of toes, while current safety protocols mean there are no dancefloors to be seen, the DJs spinning poolside beats will almost certainly get your toes tapping on your luxury daybed, sun lounger or even in the pool – and that’s not only allowed, it’s encouraged! In keeping with the resort’s Ibiza-inspired colour palette and interior design, Wet Deck is awash with rich turquoise, inspired by the Mediterranean Sea on its doorstep, complemented by the vibrant yellow, green and blue sunshades cascading down the hotel walls, representing the island’s golden sun, lush campo and clear skies.

Sipping on cocktails here is de rigueur, with bespoke concoctions designed by W Ibiza’s master mixologists. Try a Piña Pagés – a twist on the classic, using homemade Hierbas Ibicencas for the local touch – or a Bohemian Sour, fusing Pampelle, Campari, Carpano Antica Formula, Beefeater 24 and fresh lime. More island twists come through in the Margabiza – using Olmeca Blanco, Mezcal and agave with the island’s own Sal de Ibiza and fresh lemons from the fields – and the Watermelon Frosé, which blends Ibiza’s famous Ibizkus rosé with ripe watermelons from the rich red soil plus fresh lime and raspberry. An array of smoothies, sangria in all colours of the vino rainbow (that’s white, red, rosé and sparkling, in case you needed a refresher), a very carefully curated wine list plus top shelf spirits are also on offer – needless to say, when it comes to whetting your whistle, Wet Deck has the situation in hand.

Inevitably one will start to feel peckish, with all that relaxing, swimming and toe-tapping, and the menu at Wet Deck offers something to suit all appetites. Healthy salads – from the classic Burrata and Caesar to a Korean Hanbok – sit alongside snacks like spicy chicken wings, tuna tataki, steak tartare, Iberian ham and edamame, while mains offer a much heartier source of sustenance. Choose between a premium Basque entrecote, salmon teriyaki, a crispy half roast chicken, classic fish and chips or the Italian crowd pleaser, Paccheri alla Norma. The Italian influence continues through a dedicated pizza menu – all your favourite toppings – while the sandwich and burger menu covers traditional clubs, the famed W Burger, the must-try vegan Ve Burger made with Beyond Meat patties and a decadent Croque Madame. The icing on the W Ibiza gourmet cake is, of course, dessert – think ice cream, fruit platters, vegan brownies and good old fashioned apple pie.

The beauty of Wet Deck is that it’s open to the public in addition to hotel guests, with day passes available for 50€ (which includes a 30€ credit towards your food and drink bill). The glamorous setting attracts the who’s who of Ibiza in addition to the visiting jetset, and as day to turns to night, the poolside action moves indoors to the adjacent W Lounge, where weekly events see special guest DJs such as Jodie Harsh and Fat Tony spinning alongside popular island residents including Guy Williams, Corbi and Simon Morell at W Ibiza. On Sundays, local musicians Banjaara Live set the scene with their cutting edge soundscapes, blending electronic elements such as synthesisers with the Indian Sitar and the Chinese Guquin – in the dreamy, boho surroundings of W Lounge, it’s a weekly event that’s not to be missed.

The design of the W Lounge at W Ibiza was inspired by another of the island’s icons – the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site Dalt Vila. You can spot the influence in the sandy-hued, terraza-style stairs that are covered in bright, hippie-style floor cushions that are just begging to be lounged upon. Swing sofas add that final touch of laidback luxury, the perfect place to sip W Ibiza’s signature cocktails at any time of the day or night. Facing directly out to sea– like all rooms and suites in W Ibiza – the views from W Lounge creates a feeling of bringing the outside in, while retaining that sense of cosiness and safety so many travellers are seeking these days.

Even if you’re not staying in one of the luxurious suites, you are invited to feel completely free and relaxed to enjoy all the spaces within the resort – and hotel guests report checking in, and never wanting to leave the ultra-convenient location as everything they could ever dream of is already on their doorstep. Whether you’re jetting in for a long weekend, are an island local looking for a new hangout, or are planning to spend a few weeks in the hotel, W Ibizaoffers all its like-minded guests a sense of coming home. Fusing the free-spirited Ibiza lifestyle with all the trimmings you’d expect from the W Hotels group, it brings a new level of luxury, style and service to the Santa Eulalia area – exactly what the island needs.

Love in a cup

They say money makes the world go round but we all know that without coffee, money is just bits of coloured paper. Java, Joe or jitter juice – it doesn’t matter what you call that morning cup of life, but what does matter is how well it’s made. Sam Swinburn and his team at Meke have been filling the Ibiza breeze with the scent of freshly roasted coffee since 2012, supplying the island’s top cafés and restaurants with quality beans sourced from sustainable and ethical farms across the globe. Now coffee lovers and aficionados alike can stop by the company’s eponymous café in Santa Eulalia to enjoy a freshly brewed cup with an organic snack before grabbing a bag of beans to take home.

Sam first landed in Ibiza in 2003. “I had no expectations,” he says. “I just arrived here and thought it was amazing. I hadn’t experienced that feeling anywhere else.” He made the permanent move from his home in New Zealand in 2010 and after two years searching for a decent coffee, Meke was born from a needs-must basis. “I realised pretty quickly that I couldn’t live here without decent coffee,” he laughs. “So, I had to make it myself.” He sold his house and with the leftover money, bought a one-tonne coffee roaster from Holland. “We had to get a crane to bring it to the warehouse,” he recalls. Alongside his brother, sister and two good friends, Sam built what is now the island’s specialty coffee roaster, and the only one that can guarantee sustainable, ethical and traceable beans as well as a damn fine brew.

Coffee has become so much part of the human experience that it can be easy to forget it comes from a plant. At Meke, everything starts with the bean. Sam sources beans depending on what’s been freshly harvested around the world. Towards the end of the European summer, El Salvador and Guatemalan harvests are available, along with some Kenyan and Dominican Republic strains. Early in the year, it’s time for Colombian and Honduran beans, while the middle of the year is when Peru’s flavours hit the market.

Working with three trusted coffee suppliers who source directly from farms, Sam is able to ensure that all Meke beans have come from sustainable and ethical sources, with around 50% derived from organic plantations. “Making sure there are sustainable practices at origin is equally important to me as organic certification,” Sam explains of the Meke ethos. “Smallholders can’t always afford certification but they still practice organic methods. We’ve met them, we know their processes and philosophy – after that, the important thing is the flavour profile of the coffee.”

Sam visits the farmers whenever possible, having had his first plantation experience in Indonesia in 2008 “Seeing the process of the coffee producers made me realise they are actually artisans,” says Sam. “Drinking a coffee at origin is a completely different experience. You can taste exactly how it is from the tree.” Further trips to meet farmers in Colombia and Brazil are planned for this year. “We’re going to be doing more buying directly, It lets us guarantee the quality of our coffee, consistent supply and close the circle of the bean to cup experience.”

The flagship Meke Café in Santa Eulalia is the final stage of the process where the espresso, latte or cortado you order can be traced back to a single farm or group of farmers. Taking your coffee in a café is surely one of life’s greatest pleasures, but having one at home comes in at a pretty close second place. The team at Meke can advise on the various domestic coffee making options from basic French presses to hi-tech drip filters and single shot espresso machines, not to mention the right takeaway blend to suit your taste. “My main tip for people wanting really good coffee at home is to buy a coffee grinder,” says Sam. “Grinding the whole beans just before you make the coffee changes everything.” And just in case you were wondering, Sam personally prefers drip coffee into a thermos for day to day brewing.

Sitting alongside the arches of the Santa Eulalia town hall, Meke Café occupies a sun-dappled corner where a couple of outside tables allow for excellent people watching over coffee and a light bite to eat. Inside the vibe is urban rustic with wood bar stools upholstered in coffee sacks standing in front of the gleaming espresso machine. A relaxed buzz drifts over the space and the casual friendliness of the barista belies the seriousness with which the coffee is made. Each shot is freshly ground and then loaded into the machine, brewed and weighed before being served in any number of styles. Glass domes house vegetarian sourdough panini, frittatas, cakes, muffins and cookies. For those who don’t drink coffee (who are you?) or if coffee accidentally turns into aperitivo (it happens), there’s also organic artisanal soft drinks, natural wines and craft beers. A further outlet in Palma means you won’t lack a decent caffeine hit when island hopping. Life without coffee is unthinkable but here in Ibiza, life without Meke coffee is unliveable.