Our guide to making your island getaway the most delicious holiday ever

We adore the Mediterranean whatever the season; although really, it’s the quintessential summer escape.

For a sophisticated slice of island life, choose the Balearics, the sun-drenched Spanish archipelago that offers beautiful villas and country estates; wonderful coves and bays with stunning beaches; clear, aquamarine waters; and sensational food & wine.

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Formentera

This chic, boho style island is a real discovery. It’s a short boat transfer from Ibiza, but worlds-away; a corner of the Caribbean in the Mediterranean. Think white sandy beaches, an incredible clear, azure sea; unique, quirky hippie markets, and super beachside restaurants.

‘Villa Mariana’
We’ve found this fabulous contemporary villa that captures the tranquillity and beauty of the island of Formentera. It’s set within pine woodlands, with a fabulous pool and garden.
With 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms it can comfortable accommodate a large family or group of 10 friends.

You can opt for a private chef too, who will prepare mouth-watering feasts using high-quality ingredients from the islands – organic vegetables, fresh local seafood and fish, and pair the dishes with refreshing local white wines.

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It’s easy to get around diminutive Formentera – you are never far from a stunning cove, sophisticated beach clubs and relaxed beach bars.
Called chiringuitos, the seaside restaurants offer a more mellow and relaxed vibe than neighbouring Ibiza. You can choose a hippy style, like Piratbus, on Playa Migjorn, close to the villa.
Or choose something decidedly more upscale, like the famous ‘Juan y Andrea’ chiringuito. Founded in the 70s by the husband and wife team, this restaurant is found on the fabulous Illetes beach and is popular with the superyacht set, as well as foodies that enjoy the fresh fish and superb wine list.
Since the Balearics are Spanish, expect lots of family friendly restaurants too, where you call can kick back, relax, and eat well.

Dining out in the evening can be a real treat. A favourite is Can Dani, just a short drive from Villa Mariana. Here creative fine-dining cuisine is matched by the elegant surroundings.

Choosing Villa Mariana means you have all the joys of island life on your doorstep, as well as having you own secluded oasis. It’s the perfect place to relax in the Balearic sunshine – by the pool or in the shade on the love seat in the Balinese-style cabana overlooking the pool. And for those looking for a bit more solitude and an ideal place to relax, will find an additional Balinese cabana within the garden complete with comfy sofa seating.

Ibiza

The White Island needs little introduction. Its music culture is world-class and offers visitors a compelling mix of a sophisticated nightlife and secluded, ultra-luxury villas secluded amongst the Ibiza’s pine forests.

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‘Villa Cala Salada’
This striking contemporary villa is built on 4 floors, offering guests panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and of course the opportunity to take in Ibiza’s celebrated sunsets from the terraces.

With 5 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, this villa offers plenty of flexibility with accommodation.

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Ibiza has a surprising diversity for visitors. If you want to party and enjoy an extravagant holiday, then it’s all there. The legendary clubs and music venues of Ibiza are close by in San Antonio.

You can also dine out at the world’s most expensive restaurant, ‘Sublimotion’ – the most extraordinary culinary performance experience – close to Ibiza Town’s famous Playa d’en Bossa.

Yet if you want something more laid back, then Villa Cala Salada is just perfect for a yoga or wellness retreat, or for guests looking to enjoy the amazing natural environment.

There are two pools, with sea views and a hot tub or 6 people.

Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast which is included each day, and for retreats then a chef is available as a bookable option.

Alternatively explore the island’s villages and hamlets for interesting places to eat like ‘Sa Soca’ just outside San Antonio. It’s a family run joint that offers traditional, home-cooked food all year round.

For the adventurous head up to Bambuddha, the famous Asian fusion restaurant in the Ibizan hills where the food and atmosphere will transport you to Bali.

Villa Cala Salada gives guests the very best of Ibiza, from its privileged location, proximity to great nightlife, and facilities that are perfect for large groups on retreat or an extended family looking for a destination with something for everyone.

Menorca

Menorca is so often overlooked in favour of her more popular sisters. Yet this rural island is probably the most authentic. In addition to beautiful coves and sandy bays, Menorca offers verdant rolling countryside as well as the attractions of the charming historic port cities of Mahon and Ciutadella.

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‘Prestige Menorca’
For the most memorable holiday we recommend ‘Prestige Menorca’, a spectacular home within a 250 acres estate. This is a full-service villa offering the facilities and amenities of a luxury boutique hotel. A dedicated in-house concierge team are on-hand to take care of your needs, both prior to and during your stay.

This 11-room, 11-bathroom property, with stunning 180-degree sea views, is set in extensive grounds. Guests will love The White Company London linens, towels, bathrobes and candles; as well as the L’Occitane bathroom amenities.

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Even more delicious is that there is a chef on-site, so guests staying a week can expect a tasty breakfast served daily, as well as 5 lunches and 5 dinners.

The capital of Mahon is not far away, so make sure you visit the city’s tempting produce markets. Menorca is all about slow food – natural, local artisan food, like cheeses and organic vegetables and sustainable meat.

‘Can Vermut’ is a favourite place to enjoy tapas close to the harbour in Mahon. Try the tasty ‘sobrasada’ sausage which is a local delicacy.

If you head to the other side of the island, to the historic former capital of Ciutadella then you will discover a myriad of bars and restaurants. ‘Cas Ferrer de Sa Font’ is the place to go for authentic Menorca gastronomy. The kitchen sources locally, supporting the island farmers. You’ll also find some excellent seafood dishes here too.

Menorca Prestige is perfect for those looking for a private property with the facilities of a boutique hotel. For example, there’s a 26-meter outdoor heated pool set in manicured landscaped gardens; and a superb gym. Equipment includes treadmill, bike, rowing machine, as well as free weights etc). There is a massage treatment room too, and personal trainers, nutritionists, therapists, yoga and Pilates instructors can also be arranged.

Mallorca
The biggest of the Balearics, Mallorca has become the Michelin star dining capital of the Balearics, with 8 stars. ‘Zaranda’ has an impressive two stars; whilst Mallorca is also home to Mac Fosh’s eponymous restaurant. Found in Palma, the capital, Marc Fosh has 1 star. Interestingly the Marc Fosh is the only British chef to have been awarded a Michelin star in Spain.

So, the Balearics are most certainly amongst our most tempting of destinations – islands where you can indulge in both fabulous accommodation in unique villas and eat incredibly well.

More inspiration
Please remember, we are here to help you create your group retreat, family holiday or get away with friends.
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