Best known as the clubbing capital of Europe, Ibiza also boasts striking scenery and isolated beaches so whether you want to party on or chill out, there will be something to lure to you to La Isla Bonita
There's a saying that if Ibiza chooses you, you will return again and again, a fitting adage for such a magnetically beautiful island. Ibiza is still the most fashionable destination in Europe, with celebrities including Elle Macpherson, Kylie and Dannii Minogue and P. Diddy making a regular pilgrimage there.
Despite its reputation, Ibiza isn't just for party people and A-Listers - with an abundance of beautiful beaches and isolated inland villages, it's also the perfect family destination. In fact, once you've been seduced by the island, it's not unusual to become strangely possessive about the place, so it's with a fair amount of reluctance that we let you in on what you're missing...
WHERE TO CLUB
Although world-renowned and loads of fun, clubbing in Ibiza can be pricey, especially in July and August. However, for your euros you often get one free drink and a slice of some of the best dance music on the planet, spun by the world's top DJs
The vinyl frontier
Space is regarded as the ultimate Ibiza clubbing experience. Open for a marathon 24 hours on Sundays, the music policy is funky house on the terrace and harder beats inside. Wear what you like - you'll meet people sporting beachwear to fluffy handcuffs. The only prerequisite is a pair of cool shades. You can pay anything from £15 to £40 entry, depending on the day and season.
Telephone: (34) 971 396793
Website: www.space-ibiza.com/
Showing out
For swish surroundings, a stylish clientele and the occasional celeb, head for Ibiza institution Pacha. But make sure you dress up or you won't get through the door - ladies, this is your opportunity to slip on those killer heels and show off that hard-earned tan. Prices vary, but expect to pay up to £30 for entry.
Telephone: (34) 971 191000
Website: www.ibiza-spotlight.com/night/pacha_i.htm
Larger than life
For a slice of true Ibiza madness and the chance to get down in the world's biggest club, check out Manumission. Monday night is the time to go. The eclectic clientele ranges from wide-eyed teenagers to dwarves and fairies.
Telephone: (34) 971 198160
Website: www.manumission.com
In for the long haul
Circo Loco at DC10 is currently the club to see and be seen in. Supposedly named because an aeroplane crashed into the building. Don't bother turning up at any other time than Monday morning - after Space.
Website: www.circolocoibiza.com/dcten.html
Ibiza is home to a surprising amount of first-class eating establishments. Whatever your requirements - from the freshest fruits de la mer to a Thai banquet for ten - you can find it here
Grove thing
Elle McPherson's (and my) favourite restaurant is Bambuddha Grove. Situated off the main road to Santa Eulalia, the 'Meditterasian' menu is surprisingly sophisticated, although you can simply have a drink at the bar if you prefer. The ambience is relaxed, efficient and buzzing and the food is quite good value.
Telephone: (34) 971 197 510
Website www.bambuddha.com
New religion
If you fancy splashing out, head for Sa Cappella. Situated in a beautiful old church, this is one of Ibiza's top restaurants serving Spanish and international cuisine, which is best enjoyed under the stars in the garden terrace.
Telephone: (34) 971 34 00 57
Website: www.ibiza-restaurants.com/sacapella/index.html
Another level
S'Embarcador is a reasonably-priced Mediterranean restaurant in San Antonio Bay that offers dining on two floors with great open-air views of San Antonio. The clientele is young and the service can be rather slow, but when in Spain...
Telephone: (34) 971 803 260
Website: www.ibiza-restaurants.com/sembarcador/index.html
Jewel in the town
La Oliva is renowned for its paella and gets very busy at the height of the season, so you'd be wise to book in advance. Situated in picturesque Ibiza old town, the restaurant is a favourite of DJs and musicians and has become a very fashionable place to dine.
Telephone: (34) 971 30 57 52
Website: www.ibiza-restaurants.com/laoliva/index.html
If you really must sleep while in Ibiza, you'll be able to find accommodation to suit your budget, whether you're after a modest pension or top-end hotel. Here are some of our favourite places to crash
Rural retreat
Cast your mind back to the 80s and Wham's Club Tropicana video. Pikes is where they shot it. Nowadays, this original 15th-century finca is one of Ibiza's trendiest hotels, and is situated in tranquil countryside, while each room is elegantly decorated in the style of the Spanish Grandees.
Telephone: (34) 971 342 222
Website: www.pikeshotel.com/en/flash.php
Viva Ibiza
Wanna hang out with DJs and the fashion pack? Then check into Es Vive. This Art Deco-inspired, achingly hip hotel regularly plays host to music labels such as Hed Kandi who supply sultry beach-house sounds around the pool from dawn to dusk.
Telephone: (34) 971 301 902
Website: www.hotelesvive.com
Northern star
Part of the Relais and Chateaux chain, Hacienda Na Xamena is Ibiza's only five-star hotel and is located on an impressive cliff in the north. Some rooms have private whirlpool baths and panoramic views, and there is also a spa.
Telephone: (34) 971 33 45 00
Website: www.ibiza-spotlight.com/hacienda/index.html
Little wonder
In the heart of Ibiza town, the romantic La Ventana is perfect for non-drivers and those who want to be in the middle of the action. The small but beautifully formed hotel offers suites and double rooms, all with four poster double beds, VCR and hi-fi system.
Telephone: (34) 971 30 35 37
Website: www.laventanaibiza.com
Ibiza has been blessed with some breathtaking beaches and all seasoned islanders have their favourites. So jump in a car and go find yours - here are some good ones to get you started...
Hot stuff
Situated near the salt plains, uber-trendy Salinas is favoured by DJs, wannabes and people-watchers. Slip into your designer bikini and leather thong sandals and grab a table at the famous Jockey Club beach bar - the coolest spot to watch the world go by.
Long player
Platja d'en Bossa is a popular beach favoured by clubbers, Brits and Germans in miniscule Speedos. Situated opposite Space, it's also home to Bora Bora, a beach bar fuelled by a relentless house soundtrack that keeps the up-for-it clientele entertained.
Golden nugget
Situated just outside Ibiza Town, Talamanca is a long stretch of sand, which never seems to get that busy even in high season, and has numerous restaurants within staggering distance of your beach towel.
Eye candy
Benirras is said to be the most beautiful beach in the north, and attracts families, hippies and many of Ibiza's music fraternity. A perfect place to watch the sunset, accompanied by the sound of bongo drums.
For further information on Ibiza, call the Spanish Tourist Office on 020 7486 8077 or visit www.tourspain.co.uk