Welcome to the five-star hotel Gran Meliá de Mar Mallorca and the bay of Illetas!

It is no secret that the Mallorcan government wants to enhance the image of the popular Balearic island. More luxury tourism instead of the typical S’Arenal tourism. Instead of building new hotels, the existing buildings are renovated and new standards are set for old houses.

The five-star resort Gran Meliá de Mar is located directly by the sea in the bay of Illetas, away from the buzzling city of Palma – not far from the marina Puerto Portals and the Real Bendinat Golf Club. An oasis of peace in the middle of a garden lined with palm trees and pines. And a predestined location, which the hotel owes to its origins in 1964, when building near water was still permitted.

Ingenious: The chocolate-brown hotel façade with its filigree wooden trellises.The building dates from the 60’s, designed by the renowned architect José Antonio Coderch

Four years ago, the award-winning Spanish team of architect Alvaro Sans gave the listed building new splendour and ingeniously staged the chocolate-brown façade with filigree wooden trellises. Since then, the 142-room and suite hotel has belonged to the luxury category and offers sophisticated gastronomy in three restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, gym, a spa and wellness area.

Pleasant atmosphere: The modern, bright lobby with its casual lounge furniture

Welcome to paradise

In the modern, bright lobby with its casual lounge furniture and Mediterranean colour concept, the friendly doorman welcomes arriving guests with a glass of sparkling Cava. Cheers! My spacious suite is located on the second floor and offers a magnificent view of the turquoise Mediterranean from both the king size bed and the balconies. Simply unbeatable.

From my suite I enjoy the spectacular view of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.

Waking up at the Gran Melia de Mar

How do I organize the day? Once on the treadmill in the hotel’s own gym while looking at the sea? I could also book a private yoga lesson, take a few lanes in the sky pool or jump from the hotel’s private beach into the Mediterranean Sea, in order to doze lazily on the comfortable loungers at the pool afterwards. From there I get up at best to have a delicious lunch in the chic “Bardot” bistro – consisting of fish tempura  and chicken wok. By the way, the demanding audience appears here for lunch in well-groomed clothes.

I particularly like the “Bardot” bistro in its black and white retro design

Speaking of dozing: In the Gran Meliá de Mar, one finds enough lying and sitting areas, whether in the idyllic garden, on the luxurious daybeds around the pool or the romantic rock bay with its small private beach. I could easily spend the whole day here, which I additionally enrich with a massage in the “Clarins” Spa. And although Palma attracts with its charming old town, the impressive cathedral, the sophisticated shops, cafés and restaurants, I do not want to leave the Gran Meliá de Mar. I decide on freshly caught fish in the highly acclaimed gourmet restaurant “Arrels” (Spanish for roots). The culinary concept of the “Arrels” – one of three restaurants in the Gran Meliá de Mar – comes from the Majorcan top chef Marga Coll. After this culinary delight I end my perfect evening with a Rosato and this incomparable view to the sea. BvH

If you want to be spoiled all around, book the Red Level Card and enjoy the benefits of the lounge with e.g. VIP check-in and late checkout

Gran Meliá de Mar Insider Tip:

If you want to be spoiled all around, book the Red Level Card and enjoy the benefits of the lounge with its non-stop food and drinks. Here I can have breakfast in a relaxed atmosphere, order eggs as I wish from the butler while I study the daily newspaper of my choice. The Red Level Card also includes VIP check-in and late checkout, free parking, coffee and tea making in my suite or free access to the spa area and “Spa by Clarins”.

The View from the Red Level Lounge to the ocean. So cool!

In the Red Level Lounge I also can enjoy a wonderful breakfast in quiet atmosphere

Hello ocean!

How nice: Delicious macarons are ready to welcome me

My suite is equipped with a kitchenette, Nespresso machine and kettle …

…and from both – the bathroom and the comfortable king size bed – I can look out to the Mediterranean

In the bathroom there is a big whirlpool and XL products by Clarins

Gran Meliá de Mar – an oasis of tranquillity and silence – and therefore exclusively reserved for adults

Let’s go from the hotel’s beach directly into the Mediterranean Sea…

…which is only a ten minutes drive by car from the centre of Palma, located the southwest of Mallorca

Nestled by massive rocks, I enjoy the privacy of the small, dreamy bay

In 2016 the impressive 14,000 square metre garden was redesigned. Here I found various terraces, pools and numerous lying areas…

…as here by the pool which is surrounded and equipped with üItalian and Spanish furniture design

The Gran Meliá de Mar is one of The Leading Hotels of the World. A double room starts from 390 Euros

I particularly like the “Bardot” bistro in its black and white retro design:

For lunch I have delicous Fish Tempura (22 Euros)…

…followed by a yummy Chicken-Wok (26 Euros)

Once again the beautiful private bay

Shadows in front of a the 60s façade which is, by the way, under monumental protection

The “Spa by Clarins” has a sauna, a steam bath and a small indoor pool. A 60-minute massage costs 100 Euros, facials from 140 Euros

After my massage, I relax on one of the comfortable daybeds and enjoy the unique view

The Gran Meliá de Mar is also known as the “Chocolate Hotel” because of its peerless chocolate brown façade made of shiny ceramic tiles

For a nightcap I recommend the chic “Amaro-Bar”: Salud!

Contact:

Gran Meliá de Mar Mallorca

The Gran Meliá de Mar invited me.
More of my personal travel tips you can find here.

Do not miss: The special Mallorca report “A perfect day in Palma” – coming soon on MyStylery!

The post Hotel Gran Meliá de Mar Mallorca appeared first on My Stylery.

One of the famous buildings of the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi is the Casa Milà on Passeig de Gràcia, which was built from 1906 to 1910 as a landmark of the Modernisme

There is hardly a city that impresses me more in terms of architecture than Barcelona. The famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi has created real eye-catchers with his architectural style – the Modernisme. Impressive buildings such as Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, whose bright sandstone facades are adorned with playful bays and balconies. Especially in the districts of Barri Gothic, Raval, Gràcia and the Art Nouveau Eixample district, the magnificent buildings line up like the pearls of a string.

Magnificent buildings especially in the districts of Barri Gothic, Raval, Gràcia and the Art Nouveau Eixample district

Barcelona is not only fascinating because of its architecture. A city located directly by the sea and a five-kilometer, palm-fringed beach promenade, the Passeig Maritim with numerous restaurants and Chiringuitos (Spanish for beach shack) are already a special way of life. Wonderful when you wake up in the morning looking at the harbor silhouette, which is possible, for example, if you stay at the hotel of the stylishly designed private member club “Sohohouse” (located directly opposite the beach mile, from 330 euros per night), which I will soon report in more detail on MyStylery.

Big rush in Antoni Gaudi’s fairytale park

Immediately after getting up I take a taxi up to the hill Turó del Carme to Parc Güell. Dive into the fairy tale forest, which Antoni Gaudi had originally planned as a garden-city and built from imaginative, broken pottery. Tip: The number of visitors to the Gaudi fairytale-forest is limited to 400 visitors. Definitely buy the tickets online before (admission 8 euros per person). The same applies to Barcelona’s landmark, the impressive Basilica Sagrada Familia – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The exploration of the vast Güell Parc with its arcades and flower columns, also designed by Gaudi, is free and worthwhile for the phenomenal views over Barcelona alone. You can also enjoy a mega-view of the harbor, the city and the sea from the Castell de Montjuïc on the 173-high mountain of the same name. During the Franco dictatorship the former 16th-century fortress was used as a military prison and torture chamber for unwelcome opponents of the regime and political prisoners.

Parc Güell and Antoni Gaudi’s fairytale park overlook Barcelona’s skyline and the sea

On my way back I walk 5.5 kilometers by foot. I explore my favorite district of Gràcia, which is, because of its art scene, not only popular amongst young people. The capital of Catalonia is not as crowded here as in the turbulent old town streets and on the always crowded Ramblas, the famous promenade with its street musicians and artists. A visit to Barcelona’s La Catedral is a must, not just for fans of gothic architecture. Tip: From 8.00 am to 12.30 pm and from 5.30 pm to 7 pm, admission on weekdays is free. I head for the Picasso Museum in Carrer Montcada and then shop in the surrounding chic fashion boutiques. Worth a detour to the Arc de Triomf and the adjacent boulevard Passeig de Lluis Companys, which leads to the Parc de la Ciutadella: Barcelona’s green lung is popular with locals and tourists, especially on Sundays and public holidays.

The Arc de Triomf and the adjacent Boulevard Passeig de Lluis Companys

My destination is the district of Barceloneta, the former fishing village that has awakened from a deep slumber since the 1992 Olympic Games and has been carefully restored since then. Nevertheless, the village charm has been preserved. Nowhere have I seen more clothes on clotheslines fluttering in front of the windows, as a result of which all over Barceloneta there is an intense scent of detergents and fabric softeners. Typical are the small and inexpensive tapas bars and corner bars. However, I want to have lunch with a view of the sea and walk on to the Platja de la Barceloneta. Below the bronze sculpture in the shape of a giant fish by star architect Frank Gehry, I enjoy Calamari L’Andalusa (14 Euro) in the restaurant “Bestial”. Delicioso – delicious!

Why is there an intense scent of detergents and fabric softeners throughout Barceloneta? Therefore!

My tip for the evening is the restaurant “La Dama”, a gourmet restaurant in the spectacular Beletage of the Casa Sayrach, a magnificent building in Gaudi style. The sumptuously decorated entrance with columns and Art Nouveau elevator alone is just about the limit. The plush atmosphere is reminiscent of the lounge times of the 20’s and could have sprung from one of the novels of my Spanish favorite author Ruiz Safon. The food – i.a. roast beef (Rosbif de vaca, 16 euros) and sea bass (Lubina mediterranea, 26 euros) were as good as the final nightcap at the bar. Salud! BvH

Gourmet restaurant “La Dama” in the spectacular Beletage of the Casa Sayrach

Eating in Barcelona

“Can Fisher”: The name says it all. Here you can feast on excellent fresh fish and paella and enjoy a direct view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Foodies must have a look at Barcelona’s most beautiful market hall, “La Boqueria”. But be aware: At lunchtime, tourists come pouring in to eat at one of the stalls. Alternatively, the “El Nacional” offers food and drinks from all corners of Spain at various cooking stations and bars in a gigantic hall.

Me sitting in the sun…Barcelona offers 4.2 kilometers of golden sandy beaches, just 10 minutes from the city center

Sleeping in Barcelona

“Chic and Basic Ramblas Hotels” (from 130 euros per night), “Motel One” Barcelona-Ciutadella (from 95 euros), “Room Mate Gerard” in the Eixamples district (from 180 euros).

Hotel tip: “The Neri” in the middle of the romantic old town with the excellent restaurant “a”

The palm-fringed seafront of Barcelona and Port Vell is five kilometers long btw

Arriving in Barcelona

For example, with EasyJet from 128 euros.

The journey time from the Aeroporto Barcelona to the city is about 20 to 30 minutes by taxi, the fare about 30 to 35 euros. The Aerobus runs every 5 to 10 minutes, single ticket for 5,90, there and back 10,20 Euro. There are also trains as well as the TMB airport bus line 46.
Speaking of bus: In Barcelona you can also explore the city for an initial overview via an on-and-off bus tour.

More tips for Barcelona

A culinary paradise (not only) for vegans: The weekend brunch in the “Flax & Kale” restaurant. Tip: The avocado toast with homemade bread. Glutenfree of course!

Makes one speechless: The monumental architecture of the Gaudi Cathedral Sagrada Familia – the symbol of Barcelona…

…As imaginative as if it had sprung from a Hollywood backdrop

One of the most beautiful places in the Catalan capital: The Placa Reial

Mekka for all foodies: Barcelona’s most beautiful market hall “La Boqueria”

Having lunch under palm trees and with views to the Mediterranean – for example in the restaurant “Bestial”

La Catedral Barcelona: Typical and traditional is the sardana dance that can be watched on Saturday afternoons next to the Catedral Barcelona

The Sardana is a symbol of unity and pride of the Catalans

Parc de la Ciutadella: Barcelona’s green lung is popular with locals and tourists

The marina of Barcelona

Barcelona is the city of contrasts: The Mediterranean metropolis with its 1.5 million inhabitants offers not only Art Nouveau but also award-winning skyscraper architecture

Let’s have an Apertivo in a vermouth bar: Barcelona’s favorite drink

Cool pub in a former garage: The “Auto Rosellón”…

…a top location for breakfast, lunch and dinner

More travel stories you can find here.

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Welcome to 7Pines Resort – the new luxury hotel in Ibiza and Member of “The Leading Hotels of the World”

By this time, one could think that my favorite island Ibiza doesn’t have anything surprising or really new to offer. Far from it. Opened in early June in Ibiza, 7Pines Resort is a 56,000-square-meter deluxe hotel with 186 suites, oceanfront restaurants and bars, infinity and lagoon pools, a 1,500-square-foot spa, its own Pershing yacht and secret grotto. Located in the southwest of the Balearic island, between Cala Tarida and Cala Comte.

The lobby of the 7Pines Resort welcomes the arriving guest with views of the pool and sea. By the way, checking in here is short and relaxed – and comfortable while sitting down

My first encounter with 7Pines Resort is already two years back. At that time, there was just an idea of what the 5.5-acre site would become once. General Manager Markus Lück gave me a small tour and showed with great enthusiasm, what everything would look like in the future. Construction delays on objects of this size are nothing out of the ordinary – especially not in Spain – so it was not surprising that the official opening in early June had to be rather improvised.

Markus Lück, the general manager of 7Pines Resort and me on the construction site. He supervised the project from the beginning and knows it like no one else

However, the gigantic opening party on the evening of June 2nd ran as planned. More than 600 invited guests strolled the red carpet and were impressed by various show acts, live music and light shows. The evening dresses of the ladies fluttered in the light breeze, while the iced champagne sparkled in the glasses. And the kitchen showed its future culinary standard with its offered food. When world-class DJ Fritz Kalkbrenner was at the turntables later in the evening, there was no holding back. What an impressive evening.

One of the highlights of the opening ceremony: Illuminated giant dolls – Dundus – move in time to the music and delight the guests

The 7Pines Resort is part of the Düsseldorf investment group 12.18., which, apart from various hotel projects, also operate in five-star houses such as “Schloss Fleesensee” in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. With “Hotel Stadt Hamburg” on the North Sea island of Sylt, another hotel in the luxury segment was added this summer. It takes a great deal of entrepreneurial courage to invest millions in a project like the 7Pines Resort, which caters to a pampered clientele who knows everything and has seen it all. Especially in Ibiza. But as an investor you also need a vision. And who visits the 7Pines Resort, can feel the motivation of its operators.

Who visits the 7Pines Resort, can feel the motivation of its operators

What I particularly like about the 7Pines Resort is the generosity of the entire resort. There is room, nothing is tight. There are multiple retreat areas and privacy. The 186 suites (48 to 124 square meters) are spacious and equipped with living room and bedroom (s) in Ibizan style and Mediterranean colors. Some have their own garden and private pool. There is a kitchenette for the preparation of tea and coffee and a wine fridge with champagne, wines, soft drinks, chips and co, which is replenished daily. Even a mini-freezer was thought of, which holds ready ice cubes and cooling sleeve. Friends of the longdrink find everything necessary for its preparation. 24/7 room service is self-evident, as well as the fresh fruit, which is delivered daily on the electric bikes in retro look. In the bathrooms are plenty of towels and bathrobes, Molton Brown products and a XXL rain shower.

The 7Pines Resort’s own delivery – electric bikes in retro look – provide fresh fruit daily and a 24/7 room service. The service at 7Pines Resort is excellent

Speaking of space: the 1,500-square-meter spa is the absolute doozy at the 7Pines Resort (more about it soon on Mystylery) and an architectural masterpiece – the focus is always on the look outside. I cannot think of any other luxury resort on the island that offers me this phenomenal, 180 degree view of the sea and the rock Es Vedrà both in yoga, as on the treadmill or the massage table. The 7Pines Resort aims to welcome and pamper its guests throughout the year. Even in the winter months, when Ibiza is still around 18 degrees Celsius. And even on cooler days, there is nothing more wonderful than sweating in the sauna after a long beach walk.

View of the mystic rock Es Vedrà

I quickly found my favorite spot in the hotel. A lounger by the infinity pool overlooking the rock Es Vedrà. For hours I could hang out here, dream and enjoy the view. This rock has something magical and captivates me. Especially at the blue hour and low sun. And the sunsets are – thanks to the southwest location of 7Pines Resort – the best on the island. Here the sun hovers like a huge, red balloon in the sky, becomes one with the horizon and makes the sky glow. Sometimes a green flash is created for a brief moment. Anyone who sees this may wish for something. BvH

Pure romance: The southwest location of the 7Pines Resort guarantees the best sunsets on the island

Info Pure Seven Spa:

The 1,500 square meter Pure Seven Spa was built by Balmea. The walls are decorated with floor-to-ceiling ornaments made of Bisazza mosaics. In addition to a Finnish sauna, the guest also has a steam bath, bio sauna and hamman. After the sauna, two degrees cold water from the mist shower ensures a little cooling. The Pure Seven Spa and saunas can also be booked and used by external guests.

Varied saunas at the Pure Seven Spa

The Pure Seven Spa at night. In the background the illuminated infinity pool

My suite:

…overlooking the sea from my own balcony. Bright colors were used for the design of the suites, some of which have fireplaces and all of them love to detail

On the convenient sofas you can relax comfortably on ikat pillows in shades of green and blue. Forget the beach bag? No problem. It is part of the 7Pines Resort’s facilities

Fancy a gin and tonic? The ingredients I find in the kitchenette

Comfort XXL: On the box bed of course with several pillows

Good night at 7Pines Resort: I cannot say no to the delicious macarons as a little bedtime treat

Small tour to the 7Pines:

The restaurant “The View” offers a breakfast buffet until noon which leaves nothing to be desired. My favorite: home-made yoghurt with fresh berries, passion fruit and grated coconut

The open-plan lobby at 7Pines Resort is decorated in natural materials such as wood, stone and leather

Following the Ibizan architecture, the facades of the 55 houses of the five-star hotel in total shine in a light sandstone tone. The maxims of 7Pines Resort are maximum comfort, privacy and space

The 44-meter long lagoon pool is ideal for families with children due to the gently sloping water inlet

Spa and Gym from the outside

Om with yoga teacher Sara: I’m thrilled, the 7Pines Resort offers daily yoga and pilates classes as well as personal training

The secret grotto: Like the movie backdrop of a pirate adventure

My favorite spot:

My favorite spot is the 55 meter long and 14 meter wide infinity pool. Pleasant: The subtle music in the background without annoying, deafening beats

Lunch by the pool with probably the most delicious Cesars salad ever. With a peach smoothie…

…Salute!

Infinity pool and sky radiate to the bet. By the way: If you want to swim in the sea and feel like spending a day at the beach, it’s just a few minutes drive away, for example, on the Cala Comte

The architects of Arditecnica from Madrid skillfully put the unique view at the center of the 7Pines Resort’s planning

The culinary:

First, I’ll have an aperitif at the Pershing Bar…

…then to the restaurant “The View” for an à la carte dinner. The view is unbeatable, right?

Chef Bijendra creates European dishes with a Korean touch here. The amuse-gueule with caviar …

…is followed by cannelloni poached Norwegian king crab, red shrimp and avocado

Then I decide for the Wild Red Snapper. Yummy!

From the restaurants “The View” and “Cone Club” my gaze falls on the romantic rock of Es Vedrà and the turquoise Mediterranean Sea

Ship ahoy! The 25-meter Pershing Yacht is available to 7Pines Resort guests for day trips and can also be hired for multi-day tours

Adios 7Pines! I’ll be back. Most certainly…

Contact 7Pines Resort:

www.7pines.com

More travel stories and Ibiza tips you can find here.

The 7Pines Resort Ibiza invited me.

The post Ibiza Love: Fine luxury at the 7Pines Resort appeared first on My Stylery.

Best of IBIZA LOVE

Welcome to the Cami de Balafia!

Everyone loves Lina-Marie and she loves her guests. And they come to her typical Ibiza restaurant Cami de Balafia, to enjoy the best BBQ of the island. Hidden – and therefore only detectable if you know the exact address – lies the small, family-operated restaurant beyond the Street 733 in direction to San Juan at kilometer 15,4.
Since more than 33 years beef is prepared over a charcoal grill in the inner court of the Balafia.

Chief Lina-Marie infront of the big charcoal grill

Feasting under the Stars

In the romantic hacienda guests can dine at wooden tables

There’s a choice of lamb, chicken, rabbit, pork chop and the best filet of beef that I’ve ever tried. MyStylery lifts the secret of the incomparable aroma: The grill is flamed with three different types of wood: almond-, carob- and olive wood. A wonderful smell that can be discovered by long distance.

The Cami de Balafia is rather unpretentious

Sorry Veggies! This is nothing for you

Beautiful eye-catcher: The lemons come from Lina-Marie’s Garden

A menu doesn’t exist. When Lina-Marie receives the orders at the wooden tables, the guests have the option to choose the best tomato salad either with or without onions. At that point I also don’t want to keep the secret of the delicious sweet potatoes. And the homemade aioli – pure garlic – is only recommended if you don’t have any other dates in the next three days.

Memories on the wall: Mick Jagger and Kate Moss also came here enjoying a steak

The Balafia is always packed with people during the evening. In the afternoon it is a little more contemplative. Then, Lina and her sisters sit in the kitchen and discuss the newest island gossip, whilst snipping the ingredients for their dishes. BvH

The courtyard is lined with lush bougainvillea

Here a shady spot can be found during the hot midday sun

Tip:

Reservation in advance recommended! Ask for the opening hours via call and take enough cash with you – credit cards are not accepted.

Contact Cami de Balafia:

Sant Joan de Labritja Road, km 15.4
Ibiza, Spain

+34 971 32 50 19

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In this pub it all started over 60 years ago: Las Dalias in Sant Carles

I wonder whether the Spaniard Joan Mari would have ever expected that one crazy idea he had sixty years ago would now be the hot spot of the island of Ibiza and – for me – the world’s best hippie market! But first things first: In November 1954, Joan Mari, a farmer and carpenter Ibizan, opened a small bar, which he called Las Dalias. The whole neighborhood went on to Sant Carles to abut with the newly minted restaurateur. The beginning of a legend.

Stands under shadow spending palm trees

At that time, tourism did not exist in Ibiza. But the so-called Spirit of the island attracted power and aristocracy. Men like Aristotle Onassis and Prince Rainier of Monaco, who had already seen it all, came with their entourage to inhale the beauty of the island, because nowhere else they could find something as original and authentic as it was in Ibiza.

The „it-bag” of this summer: colorful cotton look in rainbow colors. Pretty and much cheaper than in German shops

In the 60s, the hippies came and with them Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison, followed by Bob Marley in the 70s. The beginning of flower power, peace- and freedom movement. And also the start of small stalls opening around Joan Mari’s little pub Las Dalias.

„Fig Tree“ is one of my favourite shops on the market of Las Dalias. Alba crochets fine cotton and hence beautiful bikins emerge, followed by bags and handmade jewelry: www.figtree-ibiza.com

Nina Hagen, David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Robert Plant, Bob Geldof, all got put under the island’s spell since then, and they have left their mark on the island and the market of Las Dalias. For the past 31 years, there is the hippie market Las Dalias – it is the most famous in Europe.

The idea of food trucks actually comes from California, but happens to be much liked in Ibiza as well

When Joan’s son Juanito took over in 1985, there were five stalls. Today there are more than 200 distributors who sell their goods under the bright blue sky of Ibiza, the cafes and restaurants invite you to siesta, the DJs play relaxing music, acrobats perform their stunts, there are live music acts.

Fancy for beach or shopping: The classic bast bag should not be missed and is available in thousands of varieties in Ibiza

And that attracts visitors in droves: in summer, every Saturday more than 20,000 visitors come to Sant Carles. These huge gatherings of crowds you either like or hate. And still, the special atmosphere you only have here. Only on the market of Las Dalias I would like to be a hippie myself and imagine how Nina Hagen and her associates have, back then, celebrated their never-ending parties. BvH

Mora is an artist and a relict of old hippie days. She can tell the best stories about the market: www.djin-mora.de

Here the DJ plays his music: Island groove around the clock

Looking for a new bed throw? Souvenirs can be found in each corner, such as these colorful cotton-plaids

In the antiquarian one can find books in all languages, also a collection of German titles

In love with the fringes suede scarf: This summer cannot happen without fringes, in Ibiza they belong to every outfit since the old hippie days

In Ibiza I become a hippie-girl and love to dress in this style, no matter if this look doesn’t work at home

Contact:
Las Dalias
Crta. Eivissa – San Carles, Km 12
Sant Carles de Peralta, Ibiza, Spain
+ 34 971 326825 // M. +34 661 234 672

May to October
Saturdays: 10am – 8pm
June to September
Mondays: Nightmarket 07pm – 01.30am

www.lasdalias.es

The post Ibiza Love: Hippie market Las Dalias appeared first on My Stylery.

IBIZA LOVE Series

Bougainvillea everywhere: The Hotel Atzaró in Ibiza Island

I am often asked, what is the best place to stay on Ibiza? To be honest – I have no answer to this. There are just too many great places on this fabulous island. Let me put it that way: The choice of accommodation depends largely on what you want to do on Ibiza. Party animals better choose a hotel in Ibiza town, such as the ‘Ocean Drive’ in Ibizas Marina Botafoc, which I recently introduced in MyStylery’s series IBIZA LOVE. Or you book a room with a view (to the pool side, where things are happening!) at the Hotel ‘Ushuaia Tower’. For those of you who prefer a more quiet, relaxed vacation there is only one place to stay: The „Atzaro Agroturismo“ in the heart of the Island.

View to the large pool and the Asian-inspired spa

Don’t let the word „Agroturismo“ confuse you. It stands for ecological correct tourism – in a very modern sense. No Birkenstocks or jute bags. On the contrary, the Atzaró is a luxurious, gorgeous complex in the middle of a romantic orange grove with several pools, a very good Spa – including Moroccan Haman – and an excellent gourmet restaurant, where organic balanced meals are prepared mainly with ingredients from the hotel’s garden.

The hotel lobby with fireplace

The country hotel, which was built in the Ibizan finca style, also offers meditation, yoga and Qigong in a beautiful Balinese pavilion. Here everyone can find peace and ideally to himself. Bougainvillea frame the Balinese daybeds and wrap the entire Atzaró in a heady scent.

Here the romance factor is extremely high, no wonder that the Atzaró is very popular amongst wedding couples

None of the Ibizan styled rooms with an Asian touch are alike. Some of them offer a private garden, an own terrace or a fireplace. You will love the warmth of the open fire especially on cool evenings, since the Atzaró recently welcomes guests all year and the winter temperatures cool down noticeably.

Snuggling by the fire – how cozy!

What I like best about the Atzaró, are the various daybeds and sitting areas that invite anywhere on the hotel grounds for dozing and relaxing. Here I let myself fall into the lush cushions landscape and and just dream the day away. BvH

Feasting under starlit sky: Here it is possible!

In the evening, the garden of the Atzaró is romantically illuminated and the food is served in the excellent gourmet restaurant “The Orange Tree”

Daybed with water lilies

In the Atzaró is great attention to the detail …

… with an Asian touch …

The entrance of the restaurant ‘The Orange Tree’

What a super nice pool! 43 meters long – no reason to complain

What I really enjoy: After spending an exhausting shopping spee at the nearby Hippy market of Las Dalias (IBIZA LOVE Part X) …

… I relax with a delicious chicken-salad- lunch in Atzaró’s restaurant ‘La Veranda’. Here you can also have a wonderful breakfast

Nice: Furniture and fabrics are mainly decorated in white

For eleven years, the family-run hotel pampers its guests. Atzaró has been completely renovated and modernized in 2014

The hotel’s own organic garden

Another inviting lounge area

Beautiful nature with blooming cactus

Contact Atzaró:

Carretera San Juan, km 15
Santa Eularia des Riu
Ibiza, Spain
www.atzaro.com

Featured pic by Atzaró

Merken

Merken

Merken

The post Ibiza Love: The Country Hotel Atzaró appeared first on My Stylery.

Inés Carvajal and her husband the Spanish Embassador Pablo Garcia were the representatives of Spain in Germany for four and a half years

In a few days the tenure of the Spanish Ambassador Pablo Garcia-Berdoy Cerezo and his wife Inés de Carvajal-Argüelles in Germany ends. Then suitcases have to be packed and goodbyes are spoken. I meet Inés in the Spanish Embassy, a neoclassical, representative building with a column portal and a view of the Tiergarten in Berlin. For four and a half years, the building, which was built during the period of National Socialism and now under monument protection, was the home of Inés and her family.

Inés Carvajal infront of the painting of the former Spanish Queen Sofia in the staircase of the Spanish Embassy

MyStylery: Inés, did you feel at home in the embassy? It is very large and representative.
Inés Carvajal: We have our private rooms, including a private living room. The room decor, however, I have not changed. Back then we arrived with only one suitcase. Over time, a lot has accumulated. Unfortunately (laughs). We are collectors. Of course, we will take books and souvenirs back to Madrid. I think the less you have, the less stressful it is.
MS: Some ambassadors’ wives have changed the entire embassy at the time of their husband’s entrance …
IC: Apart from the fact that this was not necessary, Spain is in an economic crisis. Such an expenditure would be inappropriate. It is not our house, although I felt very comfortable here.

The grand salon of the Spanish Embassy welcomes visitors in warm colors

MS: You only have a few days left in Berlin. What will you miss?
IC: I will miss our local friends very much. Berlin is so green, so young and a great bike city. I drive all routes by bike, also from Tiergarten to Dahlem. This is my workout at the same time. Biking gives me the feeling of freedom. In the summer I swam a lot in the Berlin lakes. This cannot be done in any other European city. I am a fan of classical music and the cultural program in Berlin is fantastic. I love Berlin.
MS: The Berliners are not considered as friendly and obliging. Did you experience it like this, too?
IC: I like the openness of the Berliners very much. One might think we’re here for only four years, so it’s not worth getting to know each other. The opposite was the case. And although from the beginning it was clear that we would go back after four years, I could imagine staying here.

Inés Carvajal infront of the pictures from the Spanish artist Francisco Borès and a sculpture from José Subira Puig

MS: I can imagine it to be hard to move from one location to the next: you’ve just got acclimatized, it’s adios again!
IC: Even my grandparents were diplomats, I know it no different. I was very young when I married Pablo at the age of 22. At 23 I was mother for the first time. Juan was born in Manila, Pepe in Bonn and the youngest, Pablo in Madrid. The children were with us in Bucharest. Only my eldest went to the boarding school in Sankt Blasien in the Black Forest because there was no German school in Bucharest. I like to be abroad, it gives me a special energy. I am curious and like to meet people.
MS: You’re a studied linguist, but you’ve put your own career behind your husbands.
IC: True, especially as it is not easy to work as a diplomat’s wife abroad. Nevertheless, I have, of course, always performed tasks and committed myself. Teamwork is an essential aspect of the ambassadorial existence. And I see myself with Pablo as a team. The representative tasks are always fun.

Inés Carvajal and I having teatime under the tapestry: This one is from the 17th century

MS: But you did not have an easy start in Germany. When you came to Berlin four and a half years ago, your family suffered a heavy fate.
IC: One of my sons was suffering from Rhabdomyosarcoma, a very rare type of cancer. When we got the diagnosis, we flew to Boston the next day, where they specialized on this form of cancer. Pepe was operated and received chemotherapy for five months. When we returned to Europe, we thought he was completely cured. In time, my husband has embarked on his new job as an ambassador in Berlin. In Germany cancer came back massively. Nine months later he died. At the age of 19.
MS: How do you deal with it as a parent?
IC: It’s so difficult to find the right words. Many things simply sound like a platitude. “You still have two healthy children ‘or something. This does not help.

The tableplate in the salon is made of antique tanned leather and manufactured according to ancient craftsmanship traditions

MS: Are you in despair?
IC: It is an almost unbearable grief to lose such young people. At the beginning, you think you’re in a nightmare. In Spain, we would have felt the sadness and farewell differently. Berlin was a new task, a new environment and a challenge that distracted us. To meet people was then my life-saving. One also slips into a role and does not carry its inner being outwards. I’ve always done a lot with my son, sang a lot, he accompanied me on the piano. Pepe had a great sense of humor, I miss him very much.
MS: Some partnerships are broken by such an experience. Did it work with you and Pablo?
IC: In the beginning, it was difficult to talk about it. Everybody mourns differently. I think men tend to run away and don’t want to feel.

The representative premises of the embassy serve for official events. For this reason, Inés and her husband renounced family photos or personal belongings

MS: What helped you during that time?
IC: I’ve read a lot about the subject. In fact, the book Don Quixote de la Mancha helped me.
MS: The man who fights against windmills?
IC (laughs): One who takes the fight with everything. Miguel de Cervantes has a special philosophical way and how he looks at life is great. When he wrote the book, he was 58 years old and was able to incorporate his life experiences into the book. He was never recognized as a great poet and the book was misunderstood at first. He was very coherent. Cervantes has lived from hand to mouth, was very generous and is therefore already admirable.

The blue work of the artist José Maria Yturralde in the dining room measures 3.5 x 7.5 meters

MS: I admire your ability to express yourself in German.
IC: Oh, thank you! In Germany I have studied linguistics and the philology of the 15th and 16th centuries. And I love the German grammar.
MS: Really? Hardly a German says that about himself.
IC (laughs): Yes, nobody can understand that. German is really a heavy language. But I love to master things. But in fact, I speak better Romanian and English.
MS: And from January comes another foreign language with French …
IC: Exactly. Our next diplomatic station is Brussels.

Gobelin detail: What an great art piece!

MS: I love Spain with all its facets. Nevertheless, Spain is often reduced to bullfighting, paella and Mallorca.
IC: That is undoubtedly a part of Spain. I think it’s okay. I personally love Mallorca very much and spend the holiday there with the family.
MS: What do you think about the fact that many Germans see the bullfighting critically?
IC: A difficult debate. The issue is now polarizing in Spain, especially in the vegetarian movement. I believe that bullfighting is a tradition that may not survive. Although bullfighting is also a cultural treasure and art. The beauty in movement. By the way, with many complicated rules. It is said that they are the only rules that are respected and accepted by all Spaniards. BvH

The porcelain of the Spanish embassy is decorated with the Spanish coat of arms

For desert Inés Carvajal has prepared fresh fruits

I am touched by the openness of Inés and our conversation

The well-known interior expert Rosa Bernal is responsible for the interior design of the Spanish Embassy

Inés loves chamber music and the music of the Renaissance: “We like to go to the Opera and the Philharmonic. Whenever possible. We just went to Fidelio. A great orchestra and great singers.”

Did you know that every Spaniard has two surnames? “I have my father’s last name and my mother’s name. And Pablo that of his parents, “says Inés Carvajal. “Even if you marry, you do not accept the partner’s surname.”

Beautiful contrast between modern art and antique furniture

A portrait of the former King Juan Carlos hangs in the staircase of the Spanish embassy

The garden of the Spanish Embassy

“When the children were small, I discovered the craft for myself and set up a studio in which I had bound books. I could do this in the evening when the children slept.”

The neoclassical building in Berlin’s Tiergarten where the Spanish embassy is located

Contact:

www.info-spanischebotschaft.de

Merken

Merken

Merken

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IBIZA LOVE Part VIII

Best of MyStylery

The bay of Benirras with breathtaking sunsets

Nowhere in Ibiza the beach, sunset and fine dining combine in such perfect harmony as in the beautiful bay of Benirras. It is my absolute favorite among the island beaches, although the sand quality of Benirras is not exactly top notch. Nevertheless, the bay with the obelisk rock provides an almost tropical feeling, and for me there is hardly a more beautiful place on the island, where I stay until the sun sinks into the sea.

The Restaurant Elements on the beach of Benirras is the perfect place for an unforgettable vacation

On the beach of Benirras is the Restaurant Elements. That’s right up my alley: The device acts like homemade with whitened, recycled wood elements, everything is open and airy – part of the concept of element boss Kiko Malcarne, an Italian, now resident on Ibiza: “Here, everything revolves around a native cuisine with fresh fish, salads and pasta. Our meals are prepared with high-quality products from the region.”

“One needs a lot of love to create something beautiful”. Kiko Malcarne

Beautiful vintage look: The furniture is made of whitewashed, recycled wood elements

I take him at his word and order sea bass in a salt crust, which is filleted at the table. For this purpose I choose grilled vegetables and my favorite Rosé Ibiskus. I look at the colors of the setting sun in the sky and feel like in paradise. Can there be anything more beautiful? The DJ puts on some tunes and I spend the evening in the lounge area. The first people start to dance, because I can’t stand back I dance barefoot in the sand. BvH

The lounge area in the Restaurant Elements. Here, the DJ puts on some tunes

Tip 1

How to fillet a fish perfectly in a salt crust

Tap salt crust with a cloth

Ahhh, the completely salt covered fish … here a sea bass

Release the fish from the salt and solve the skin …

Arrange the fillets, then remove the whalebone …

… Buen Provecho!

Elements Ibiza: News about the island

Tip 2

During the day, Elements offers yoga classes and massages in the spa area, how about the daily vitamin dose at the juice bar afterwards? The small boutique seduces to shop and I discover a sweet bikini, then worn right on the beach.

So wonderful that I can go shopping everywhere on the island. Also the Elements has its own, small boutique …

… for example these friendly grinning, colorful skulls …

… Beach towels and decorative jewelry

…and one more tip:

Sunday evening the beach of Benirras is the Eldorado of aging hippies and drum freaks. In high season, unfortunately already mutated into a tourist attraction of the official tour operators, the spectacle offers especially in the off-season a retro trip to ancient times.

A place to be … not only for the aging hippies: The beach of Benirras

Restaurant Elements

(April until October)
Carrer Benirras
Port de Sant Miquel
Ibiza, Spain

www.elements-ibiza.com

The post Ibiza Love: Beach Restaurant Elements appeared first on My Stylery.

Ibiza Love Part XVI

In the Bay of Es Cavallet is quieter than in the Beach Clubs at Playa Las Salinas or even the clubs on Playa d’em Bossa

Why did I actually always turn right in regularity, when the sign “Es Cavallet” appeared on the roadside of the PM 802 in Ibiza on my left? I honestly don’t know. Habit? Convenience? The believe that the Jockey Club at Playa Las Salinas was already the end of the story? Following a spontaneous inspiration, I then chose the other way and that has paid off in every respect. What I found on the beach of Es Cavallet and the Beach Club El Chiringuito, was the paradise.

The beach-chair price of 15 euros in El Chiringuito Beach Club is based on Ibiza’s price level. The luxurious daybeds are more expensive

Since Jonathan Thorogood and Olivia Fleury opened El Chiringuito in 2009 in the south of Ibiza, the Beach Club has developed into one of the hottest and most compelling high addresses of the island. Surrounded by imposing salt flats, sand dunes and turquoise water, here, the open view of the neighboring island Formentera and the old town of Eivissa reveal. The El Chiringuito is a great beach restaurant and lounge area – and in line with the beautiful scenery.

Here things are maintained well-cultivated, which also relates to the guests

Early Birds start their day here on white, cozy cushions with a breakfast, including Eggs Benedicte or Florentine. Eaten on white set tables where the bread is served in a linen bag. On the menu a whole range of breakfast classics are listed, which are comparable hard to find on the island. From 1 pm onwards Lunch is served, Mediterranean cuisine with French-Ibizan Touch. I love the bread selection to which a tapenade of tomatoes is offered. Delicious! Very good is the salad with goat cheese and walnuts, served in a wooden bowl, fresh Calamari Fritti or the spaghetti with seafood. Who wants a wine recommendation, is in best hands with sommelier Esteban Acosta. I like to try local wines and decide for the Rosé LXV Loxarel of Penedes. Gazing out to the sea I enjoy my wine and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in this moment. BvH

We had the salad with goat cheese and walnuts as a starter …

… followed by fresh Calamari Fritti and the spaghetti with seafood …

… and the Rosé LXV Loxarel of Penedes. Just wonderful!

In El Chiringuito there is also outstanding breakfast …

Chic and casual

… for example, freshly baked rolls and croissants, homemade organic muesli, delicious pancakes with maple syrup and fresh fruits

Best Iberico ham freshly cut by the expert

Just relax!

In order for the big ones in El Chiringuito to eat in peace, there is a professional entertainment area for the little ones

How about an Apéro before lunch?

The only drawback in the Bay of Es Cavallet is the high proportion of algae in the sea. Depending on the flow sometimes more, sometimes less. But knowingly you can’t always have everything

Contact El Chiringuito:

www.elchiringuitoibiza.com

The post Ibiza Love: Beach Club El Chiringuito appeared first on My Stylery.