ME Ibiza: Sunshine Chic on the White Isle

With a rooftop bar, DJ sets by the pool, and a Mediterranean bay-side setting, ME combines the blissed-out vibe of the island’s north with the main town’s infamous hedonism for a one stop shop of pure Ibizan cool.

An island of split personality, Ibiza boldly embodies a mix of contradictory holiday cultures. The south is known for Pasha, partying, and all things decadent, while the sleepy north’s yoga retreats and traditional fincas are a regular summer pilgrimage for those seeking peace, quiet, and unspoilt scenery. ME Ibiza, nestled by a picturesque bay on the north-east of the island, provides a perfect blend of the two.

The hotel’s location supports its multi-appeal vibe. Santa Eularia, of which ME is situated nearby, is a coastal town popular with holiday makers: it’s near a number of public beaches, has several hotels, and is peaceful enough to properly relax. But when you’re ready to join the party crowd and dance ‘till dawn, Ibiza Town and the hottest night spots are just a 25 minute taxi ride away.

The epicentre of the property is its fabulous, day bed lined pool that enjoys views over the beach and water. Live DJs control paired back sets that encourage a glamorous easy living, and the attentive cocktail waiters are always on hand to keep the delicious sangria flowing. Access to the pool and sun loungers is included with the room rate, though the more comfortable double divans come with a not inconsiderable surcharge – though most of that is converted to an F&B allowance. There’s also a spectacular, though small, rooftop pool, again with access at a supplement.

Decoration reflects a contemporary Ibizan feel. Think a palette of bright whites, bleached woods, and a slight beachy feel. A lot of the signature ME look is visible here with neon mood lighting, brightly coloured modern design furniture, and a general feeling of nightclub chic pervading. The hotel carries a theme of inside-out living, with most of the public spaces, including restaurants, being open to the elements – glorious on balmy summer evenings.

Sleep

Ibiza popularity with holiday makers is unrelenting, so hotel space is always at a premium. The smaller Aura Rooms at ME are of a decent size with large comfortable beds, a small sofa seating area, and almost completely open bathroom areas – modesty is covered by strategically placed panes of opaque glass. The colour palette is white and cream, with touches of neon lighting that works well after dark.

Opt for one of the suites for a more luxe experience. Some have balconies, others have hot tubs and private plunge pools. Perfect for a decadent post-club after party.

Eat

Far and away the star of ME’s crown is its rooftop restaurant Radio. Consisting of a bar and eatery, the space looks out uninterrupted over the Mediterranean, miles of coastline, and the rugged hills in the distance. Food at Radio is provided by Angel Leon, a multi-Michelin star winning Spanish chef who has put together a menu of high end tapas that showcases his culinary expertise. We ate unusual dishes such as squid tartare, marinated octopus lettuce wraps, cuttlefish croquettes, and plankton risotto. The dining experience was sublime, and one that we have remembered and discussed many times since.

Elsewhere the hotels main restaurant Bianco Mare serves classic Mediterranean fare with an emphasis on Italian cuisine. This is also the space in which the hotel provides its truly lavish breakfast. There are various food stations with plentiful and varied supplies of meats, cheeses, fruit, bread, yoghurts, and sweet treats. Hot food is from a buffet of breakfast classics plus Spanish tortilla, and there’s also an egg station where chefs will whip up scrambles, omelettes, and more to your personal preferences. Best of all is the inclusion of self-serve Veuve Cliquot, a generous touch that gives breakfast a twist of decadent luxury.

The pool bar offers a range of cocktails, excellent sangrias, beers, wines, and spirits, alongside an extensive food menu of classic summer dishes. Waiters come straight to your sun bed – so you need not lift a finger.

Relax

Aside from the hotel’s stylish pool spaces, there’s also a Codage Paris Spa on the roof that offers a variety of treatments with fabulous views to match. The hotel also has a fitness centre and gym with a daily rotation of classes including pre and post breakfast yoga.

For those looking for something more high octane, on the beach down by the hotel is Ceasar’s Watersports, offering a various aquatic excitements. The hotel can also advise on hiking paths and bike routes for inland adventure.

Rooms start from £286 based on two sharing. Flights regularly run on both EasyJet and BA from Heathrow and other London Airports.

www.melia.com 

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