by The Standard Ibiza is a stylish addition to one of the busiest squares on the island, offering cool surroundings and great food. The location (there are no beaches within walking distance) means it feels more like a city retreat, rather than somewhere you’d go for a beach holiday, but that’s not a bad thing. And if you’re in town to party, Pacha is a short walk away and room service is available 24 hours. Berocca ready…
Where is it?
Located in the main square — Vara de Rey — in Ibiza Town, the location couldn’t be more central — surrounded by a myriad of shops (from super-luxury to high-fashion chains like Zara), bars, ice cream parlors and just a short stroll 15 minutes to the most famous superclub in the world, Pacha.
The Standard brand has become known for its party ethos, but sensing stiff competition on the island from the likes of Ushuaia, they’ve positioned this outpost as a relaxed, grown-up alternative for the savvy.
Despite the busy central location, the hotel’s interior feels like an oasis of calm, so while the party is raging outside, it’s a good place to check in if you want to cure your headache.
Overlooking the historic Walled Old Town (Dalt Vila), a Unesco World Heritage Site, you might even be inspired to kick your hangover and get in touch with the more cultural parts of the island.
Style
Neat, Californian cool, with pops of color and texture here and there. The interior designer, Lázaro Rosa-Violán, went for something fresh, breezy and modern, rather than anything neon or super boujie (again, this being Ibiza, that aesthetic is widely available if that’s your bag) .
Each room is stripped down and minimalist – think white walls and sheets with the odd colored pillow but little else of interest. It feels more like utilitarian comfort than elevated glamour, but there’s everything you need for a relaxed stay – and given the roof terrace, you’re unlikely to spend much of your waking time in the room anyway.
Structures
There’s no spa and only a small gym, but the star attraction is the rooftop terrace, a first for Ibiza Town. Overlooking beautiful Dalta Vila, it’s the perfect place to spend a lazy Balearic day, with super comfy sunbeds and attentive staff on hand to keep you well fed and watered. During the day the music is pleasantly laid back and minimal, but kicks it up a notch when the sunsets prepare the crowd for clubbing.
The hotel also has its own villa – the Casa Privada, ideal for larger groups, is a short walk from the main site, has its own bar, pool and space for many friends.
Food beverage
This is where The Standard Ibiza really shines. Of course there is no shortage of partying in Ibiza, so any hotel has stiff competition when it comes to keeping people entertained, but a fantastic dinner is (in my humble opinion) totally up for grabs. While the White Isle has plenty of restaurants for those who want to be seen, it doesn’t have much to offer those who are also looking for a good meal, so The Standard is a welcome addition.
Dinner is split between the downstairs restaurant – Jara – and the rooftop (UP). Most of the dishes are elegant, fresh and Mediterranean. The breakfast is highly recommended (and huge): a plate of fruit, fresh eggs (or waffles – which are crispy, chewy and sweet, i.e. perfect), excellent coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Order it to your room if you can’t face the journey to the restaurant, although there is terrace seating, over the Vara de Rey, which makes for a great start to the day.
During the day, the UP rooftop restaurant offers a curated menu of Mexican-inspired small plates (tacos, patatas bravas with a Mexican twist, crispy shrimp, etc.) that can be brought straight to your sunbed, along with a cocktail or two (all uniformly excellent). Be sure to try the guac and blue corn tortilla chips, some of the best I’ve ever had. Stay until sunset and sink a few spicy margaritas.
For dinner, Jara has a full menu and an excellent atmosphere (a DJ will get you into the party mood). My favorite was the succulent smoked chicken asado, which comes with a more flavorful fennel chimichurri. Tip: Eat in the bar and the super-attentive staff will act as your personal sommelier recommending wines from the hotel’s excellent selection. If you decide you simply can’t leave the roof, dinner at UP is also a delight – I’d recommend the short rib barbacoa, which is outstanding. It’s made for two to share and comes with a fresh, sweet apple salad, corn tortillas, and salsas. A perfect plate of pre-party food.
Extracurricular
This being Ibiza, the nightlife is obviously the big draw. Known as the clubbing capital of the world, there are a number of venues to choose from. With Pacha so close, though, it’s the obvious choice. It’s also known as one of the best clubs in the world for a reason: it draws regular lineups of superstar DJs (and a steady stream of celebrity clubbers).
Details
Double rooms at The Standard Ibiza from €225 (£194) in low season and from €550 (£474) in high season. Breakfast included; www.standardhotels.com
