What’s the first thing that springs to mind when you hear the word ‘Ibiza’ ?
Let me guess? Party? Music? DJs?
Well, if it’s not, you certainly haven’t experienced Ibiza the way I normally have, or you’ve just been lucky enough to experience the natural beauty of the country without having to exhaust yourself partying pretty much the whole time (not that that’s necessarily a bad thing!)
This trip, however, I experienced the latter at the beautiful “Es Cucons”, a small, boutique hotel hidden in the remote valley of almonds in the magical Santa Agnes in Western Ibiza. It is a little slice of heaven which I discovered through i-escape (the travel experts that have handpicked the world’s most beautiful hidden gems and boutique hotels) and trust me when I say, this really was hidden gem! This is the second time we’ve worked with them, so I knew to trust their opinions on finding the best accommodation to suit our needs. The setting, staff, food, rooms, ambience was truly exceptional.
Even though Es Cucons seems far from the madding crowd, don’t be put off. It is actually only half an hour away from the airport and fifteen minutes from San Antonio, for those that still want a party. Even more importantly, it is only a ten minute drive to Cala Salada beach (perhaps one of the most picturesque beaches I have been to in Ibiza) Clay coloured cliffs with hidden trails wind down to the most beautiful clear transparent waters and white sands of Cala Saladeta (the small neibouring beach). Tip :Make sure to go for an evening dip and catch the sun as it sets. The sky and surrounding landscape transforms into a beautiful orangey pink colour.
My friend Robyn and I arrived to Es Cucons around midnight and were greeted by one of the lovely owners of the hotel, Maria, who, despite the after hours, offered us food from the kitchen (even though it had just closed) to which we were greeted by a delicious platter of fresh hams, cheeses, bread, olives and tapenade. We were immediately in food heaven and so grateful at the immediate hospitality we received. Not the kind of treatment you would get in a normal hotel, that’s for sure! This set the precedence for the following few days, the food and service was outstanding. Lots of fresh salad options and sharing platters for lunch and beautifully fresh cooked fish and vegetables for dinner (tip – go for the John Dory and roasted vegetables for an evening meal. Delicious.) Breakfast is a buffet option offering a range of meats, cheeses, fruit platters, pastries, fresh OJ and smoked sausages, plus cooked options to order such as eggs, waffles you name it…we went for the pancakes every morning with fresh fruit, nutella, honey and chia seeds. Winner!
With fifteen shabby chic bedrooms, each one has its own distinct style and personality. We were in room 1, right at the back with its own private balcony, pond and a beautiful view of the valley beyond. The white washed walls and interior of the room is humble and cosey with a beautiful ensuite and a big bath tub… which we made use pretty much every day.
The weather was beautiful whilst we were there so a couple of the days were simply spent relaxing by the pool, a book in one hand and iced coffee in the other. The atmosphere was so tranquil, which I absolutely loved and at times it felt like we were the only ones there. Although we had ambitious plans to rent a car and explore Ibiza for the following few days, we were so wowed by the beauty and zen of the place, we decided to stay put and immerse ourselves in what the hotel itself had to offer.
We decided to get involved in the morning yoga sessions, which they have every few weeks, free of charge. This started at 11am and was a beautiful and relaxing way to start the day. We also took out their bicycles and went for a lovely morning cycle round the valley, which i would highly recommend doing. We also explored another scenic route by jogging one morning which was definitely worth it and there are lots of hiking trails that you can do too! If your looking to relax, you can also book in massages which we did after our activities. Absolute bliss.
The thing I loved about this place was the family feel to the running of it. The staff are so hospitable and welcoming, making you feel like like you’re part of the family. They were keen to lend a helping hand whenever we wanted, giving recommendations, helping out with luggage and even helping out with a first aid kit when I managed to fall off my bicycle and cut all my arms and legs! (Typical)
The setting and decor of the place is absolutely stunning. Very boho chic. The website itself does not do the place justice, so I really hope some of my images do, but you just can’t quite explain the serenity and sense of calm you feel, as you sip on an ice cold cocktail and soak up the sun, overlooking the long stretch of almond valleys beyond whilst listening to the birds tweeting and fully immersing yourself in to what I would now call, the best part of Ibiza.
