Reviewed by
Leon Beckenham
If there are two sides to Ibiza – the mega-clubs, celebrity DJs and all-night raves being on one – then Can Vistabella firmly inhabits the other. This laid-back, supremely serene and utterly relaxing boutique resort has successfully distilled the island’s blissed-out Balearic spirit, and in a manner that feels both inclusive and unpretentious. The former campsite has been transformed into a small village-like complex, where stone-paved footpaths meander through lush gardens brimming with scented herbs and pine, palm and olive trees. Electric pink bougainvillea are splashed across the whitewashed walls of the bungalow accommodation scattered around the grounds.
It’s mostly younger couples – on our visit a mix of French, Italian, and Dutch – occupying poolside daybeds, around which white muslin billows gently to the sound of rustling bamboo. Daily yoga classes invite guests to a higher level of wellbeing, together with the promise of alfresco spa and massage treatments. The hotel’s location, tucked away in the north-westerly hills of the island, gives a feeling of seclusion and remoteness. Its elevated position also means occasional distant sea views over Portmany Bay, where clubbing mecca of San Antonio also awaits if you do fancy dipping your toe in the ‘other’ Ibiza.
It’s mostly younger couples – on our visit a mix of French, Italian, and Dutch – occupying poolside daybeds, around which white muslin billows gently to the sound of rustling bamboo. Daily yoga classes invite guests to a higher level of wellbeing, together with the promise of alfresco spa and massage treatments. The hotel’s location, tucked away in the north-westerly hills of the island, gives a feeling of seclusion and remoteness. Its elevated position also means occasional distant sea views over Portmany Bay, where clubbing mecca of San Antonio also awaits if you do fancy dipping your toe in the ‘other’ Ibiza.
Highs
- Set in four acres of landscaped gardens teeming with plant life
- Outstanding restaurant on site serving Asian-Mediterranean fare
- The bungalows have kitchens if you feel like self-catering for a change
- We loved the swimming pool and deck, with its Bali beds and poolside bar
- Daily outdoor yoga sessions by qualified instructors
Lows
- The relatively remote location can be tricky to find
- There's very little within walking distance
- The restaurant is on the pricier side, especially for dinner
- No twin rooms
Best time to go
Like most of the Med, most travellers choose to descend on Ibiza during the summer months when you’re guaranteed clear blue skies and sunshine. This means booking way ahead is wise, even either side of the school holidays as many pick this time for being child-free (and cheaper). Can Vistabella is open year round, and so attracts visitors for the spring and autumn months, too, when it ‘can’ be surprisingly sunny and the island’s natural beauty really shines.
Our top tips
One of the best spots to soak up a famous Ibizan sunset is at Kumharas, a 10-minute taxi journey from the hotel. This super-chilled beach bar slash restaurant boasts a prime shorefront position and a fab spot to watch the sun dip under Sa Conillera island opposite. After dark, visitors are also treated to live music, dancing and shows.