Ibiza Special: 7x surprising Ibiza 

Sensory dining, vibrant art spots and cinema under the stars, this is the other Ibiza

Oh, Ibiza-that magnetic island in the Mediterranean that has attracted dreamers, free-spirits and epicureans for decades. But those who look a little beyond the parties and glittering beaches-or rather, those who explore the island at a more leisurely pace-discover a very different side of Ibiza: full of sophistication, creativity and unexpected tranquillity. This Special pays tribute to that other Ibiza: we spot places where art meets nature, where eating becomes an experience and where the senses are put on edge.

“There is a clear shift going on: people in Ibiza no longer seek only the spectacle, but also stillness and connection. You notice it in how they relate to spaces- even more attention to atmosphere, materials, rhythm. Art, nature and architecture are increasingly merging into meaningful experiences here. As an architectural designer, that is of course how I like to see it.” –  Jeroen van Zwetselaar, architect, lives and works between Ibiza and the Netherlands

Mira/Gathering

MIRA/Gathering is a hidden gem in the picturesque village of San Miguel, where food, art and nightlife merge effortlessly. What feels like a quiet courtyard garden by day, full of light and fragrance from the kitchen, turns into a lively meeting place at night with music, performances and a stylish atmosphere. MIRA/Gathering is not only a restaurant but also a gallery, curating world-class contemporary art. The brainchild of curator Alex Flick, known for his London gallery Gathering, MIRA brings Ibiza's creative soul to life in a way that feels at once sophisticated and casual. In the kitchen, former Nobu chef Giacomo Notarbartolo delights with elegant tapas that let the island speak on the plate - fresh, local and seasonal. With its intimate atmosphere, pink bar and quirky art pieces by Tai Shani, MIRA is not just another restaurant, but a place where you linger - for the food, the conversations, or just because it feels good.

Cinema Paradiso

Cinema Paradiso brings film to life in Ibiza's most enchanting locations. This exclusive open-air cinema organises special movie nights in iconic locations, where the surroundings are almost as impressive as the films themselves. On Tuesdays, film lovers settle down at Amante, with sea views and the red cliffs of Sol d'en Serra as a natural backdrop. Thursday is reserved for the lush garden of Atzaró, surrounded by palm trees and rolling hills. On Saturday, Petunia forms the backdrop, with the magical silhouette of Es Vedrà on the horizon. Visitors sink into comfortable beanbags while fresh popcorn crackles in the classic stall - everything is in place for a balmy movie night under the stars.

For those who prefer to stay at home, Cinema Paradiso also offers a private cinema service. In just 1 to 2 hours, a villa garden is transformed into a luxurious cinema setting, complete with big screen and a film of your choice - ideal for an intimate evening at home. This summer in Ibiza means stars above you, a glass of wine in hand and a favourite film on the big screen. Cinema Paradiso takes care of the rest.

Bambuddha

Hidden among swaying bamboo and silent stone statues, Bambuddha feels more like a spiritual hideaway in Goa than a restaurant in Ibiza. Bambuddha is anything but your average restaurant-this is a temple of flavours, atmosphere and a touch of seduction. For more than 20 years, it has been an iconic spot on the island, where romantic dinners, party nights and everything in between come together effortlessly. The cuisine takes you along the old Spice Route, with dishes that blend Mediterranean influences with flavours from Thailand, Japan and beyond. No classic courses here, but a MediterrAsian style of sharing and tasting as soon as it's ready-perfect for those who love long tables and good company. Bambuddha is not a place you just go to eat, it is an experience you take with you-both on your plate and in your head.

Six Senses 

Even in Ibiza you are allowed to take a break from everything once in a while-and for that there is no better place than Six Senses Ibiza. This luxury hotel on the tranquil north coast is not only a place to stay, but also one of the island's finest spas - and an absolute favourite. Located on the pristine bay of Xarraca Bay, the 1,200-square-metre spa is a serene cocoon of rest and recuperation. Here, modern science and age-old rituals come together in treatments that rebalance the body and mind. Think personal pathways guided by yoga masters, holistic healers and top therapists. Outside, among the organic gardens, are hidden massage catacombs, where the ingredients for the home-made spa products and the magical Alchemy Bar also grow. Whether you come for a solid fitness session, anti-aging therapy or a multi-day retreat: at Six Senses Ibiza, you step into a world of ritual, nature and deep relaxation-all in tune with the island's calm soul.

NH Collection IBIZA

With cosmopolitan flair in the heart of the White Isle, NH Collection Ibiza opens its doors for the first time in the Balearic Islands. At the same time, NH Collection is celebrating its 10th anniversary this summer with the launch of this stylish five-star venue. The hotel is located in the heart of Ibiza town, a few minutes' walk from the lively marina, the famous nightlife and the old town of Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With just 38 rooms - many of them with sea or old town views - it offers a mix of tranquillity, comfort and urban energy. Guests can relax by the rooftop pool, book an in-room massage or rent a boat, and choose from three very different dining spots: SLVJ Ibiza, with distinctly Japanese flavours and a touch of nightlife, the airy Rhino Bar by the pool, and Arrogante, an Italian trattoria open 24 hours a day. NH Collection Ibiza feels like a luxurious hideaway in the middle of bustling city life.

CAN Ibiza Art Fair

It's official: a summer in Ibiza is not complete without CAN Art Fair. From 25 to 29 June 2025, CAN - Contemporary Art Now returns to the FECOEV exhibition halls, just outside the old city walls of Ibiza town, for its long-awaited fourth edition. Under the curatorship of Saša Bogojev, the fair will bring together more than 35 leading international and Balearic galleries - including 193 Gallery, Future Gallery, Gathering and VETA by Fer Francés -.

showing the latest work in painting, sculpture, ceramics and installation. New this year is CAN Design, a section dedicated to collectible design objects, with contributions from LA Studio, Soleille and Galería También, among others.

But CAN is not limited to the exhibition floor: the vibrant OFF Programme will have art popping up in iconic spots throughout the island, from an old mill in San Antonio to exhibitions in the UNESCO-protected Dalt Vila. Art also makes its presence felt in the city itself: from mid-June, a monumental bronze owl by artist Stefan Strumbel will look down on central Ibiza. CAN Ibiza is more than an art fair - it is a celebration of art and creativity, in perfect harmony with the island's free spirit.

Estudio Laterna

Tucked away in the quiet village of Santa Gertrudis is one of Ibiza's most special places: Estudio Laterna. This public sculpture garden is accessible all year round and feels like a little oasis of silence and beauty. Around an old fig tree, paths wind between ornamental grasses, sculptures and seating areas where you can feel free to open a book or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of Ibiza.

Estudio Laterna was founded by landscape designer Andrea Sánchez and entrepreneur Ricardo Jarpa, who wanted to create a place where art meets nature with this project. Besides the sculpture garden, there is a gallery and concept store with a keen eye for design, sculptural objects and carefully selected books. Throughout the year, Estudio Laterna organises intimate events such as open-air screenings, artist talks and live performances.