In need of a digital detox, your shakras aligning or just a health kick in the sun? Then set your sights on Ibiza. Home to some of the world’s most luxurious spas, Ibiza has become a top destination for those in search of decadent pampering, relaxation, fitness and well-being: spiritual enlightenment optional.
We've compiled a list of the best spa breaks and bootcamps so you don't even have to break a sweat seeking them out!
Hang on, isn’t Ibiza all clubs and raves?
Ibiza itself is a perfect example of wellness transformation. Originating as an unspoilt spiritual haven (the Goddess of Ibiza Tanit represents fertility, life and female empowerment), it spent a few decades partying and losing itself on an unsustainable path to sheer over-indulgence. However, inevitably its coming of age moment arrived, and the island’s rejuvenation brought a marked shift from raver’s playground to paradise hideaway. Savvy travellers are now visiting Ibiza for some of the world’s best nutritionists, trainers and all-round health experts to get a healthy reboot, as well as a tan.
Thanks to the island’s micro-climate, you can work out outdoors and dip your toes in crystal clear waters almost year round. This free-thinking island welcomes all and offers everything from world class luxury to down and dirty bootcamps. Whether your body and mind demand a meditative escape, a military style workout or just a laidback healthy break with friends, you will find it here in plentiful supply.
Ibiza’s best spa packages
If the idea of a bootcamp makes you break out in a cold sweat, the island also has oodles of luxury hotels and world-class spa facilities to indulge in.
Head to the tranquillity of Ibiza’s west coast, where the luxurious 7Pines Resort guarantees some of the best sunset views on the island, the perfect spot for your sun salutations or early evening meditation. Retreat and day packages are available and spa lovers will find it difficult to leave this indulgent pampering oasis offering therapies including Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, personal training and detox programmes.
Within walking distance of Ibiza town and the magnificent Dalt Vila, the glamorous Ibiza Gran has dedicated a large part of the property to revitalising the body and mind. It's comprised of four zones (Aqua, Experience, Fitness and Beauty) offering a ‘unique experience of profound well-being’.
Nestled amidst the orange groves towards the centre of island, Atzaró encapsulates the elegance and historic beauty of Ibicencan fincas (traditional rural houses). This boho-chic agroturismo offers uniquely styled suites and a small but beautifully formed spa with outdoor pools, yoga deck and gym. Hotels guests and visitors can enjoy day packages including access to all classes, lunch and full spa access. In April and October each year it also hosts the Ibiza Spirit Festival, an eclectic and colourful celebration of all things healing, spiritual and creative attracting yogis worldwide.
All-inclusive retreats
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive retreat, Ibiza has a wealth of options. Ibiza Retreats, established in 2007, is internationally renowned for its transformational holistic approach. Whilst mainly yoga-based, this retreat also offers deeper healing options including trauma and burnout prevention which offer tools for coping with anxiety and depression, using treatments including sound healing and life coaching, with an in-house naturopathic nutritionist on hand.
The White Isle also has an abundance of specialist retreats. Explore your feminine essence with meditation, yoga and tantric guidance at the Ibiza Goddess Retreat, or choose to detox and dance with Shine Yoga.
But don’t be mistaken, retreats in Ibiza are not all yoga and meditation. HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) sessions at the beach, pool-side pilates and seriously intense dance classes have a strong presence alongside these more holistic offerings.
Head to Body Camp Ibiza for a ‘full body blast’. The Body Camp fitness team deliver an unapologetic fitness kick comprising of early morning hikes, weights/boxing drills and body toning sessions. After invigorating workouts, guests have the option to wind down through relaxing massages, guided meditation and yoga sessions as well as a plentiful supply of plant-based meals.
DIY wellness
Surrounded by turquoise waters and breathtaking countryside, it is easy to create your own action-packed itinerary. Explore the secluded coves with White Island Paddle. Their patient and professional guidance will have you on your feet in minutes. They also offer on-board pilates and yoga for those with a core of steel.
Active Ibiza is another fast-track route to organising a healthy cocktail of activities. The founder, Artash Doult, provides a bespoke service arranging everything from rock diving for the adrenaline junkie to romantic horse riding on the beach at sunset.
Want to explore at a more comfortable pace? Join the community walks guided by Walking Ibiza and learn about the island’s flora and fauna along the way courtesy of the friendly local guides. Founder Toby Clarke grew up on the island and has mapped out a stunning range of trails from 5km to 15km. These sociable outings are a great way to explore the island’s hidden gems (a voluntary contribution of €10 per person is suggested). Private walks and food tours can also be arranged, or escape for a cosy night's stay in their hideaway eco-friendly mountain refuge, La Montaña.
So it’s time to pack everything from your sarong to your sweatbands and rejuvenate yourself in this Balearic paradise. You may want to leave some space for the odd piece of clubwear: Ibiza may have grown up but it still can throw a damn good fiesta.
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