Anyone would think that the island would be quietening down as the season has finished, however, this weekend saw Ibiza Unlocked travelling all over the island discovering some varied and inviting events which most certainly kept us busy. Howard, co founder of Ibiza Unlocked embarked on a mini tour of festivals and events, all in the name of research of course, to keep you updated on what’s happening on the white isle!
Beginning with the San Mateo Wine Festival, something of an annual institution on the Ibiza calendar, especially for those (like us) who enjoy a cheeky glass of seriously good vino, we headed up to this most picturesque of villages to see what wonderful wines were on offer this year. This is an opportunity for the local Ibicencan farmers and to showcase their homemade wine, a family event which embraces local tradition and culture, and of course, good wine! With a soundtrack provided by local musicians, Howard took upon the difficult task of trying every wine on offer! In his humble opinion the winner was Can Carradona, a spectacularly drinkable red wine which really hit the spot, closely followed by the offerings from Can Esperanza and Can Cardona.
Suitably energised by indulging in these fine wines, we made our way to the iconic Pacha El Hotel. As the main club Pacha is closed for the winter, undergoing what we are assured will be an astounding transformation, El Hotel has taken its place as the place to see and be seen each weekend throughout the winter. This week saw local island DJ an long term resident, the one and only Graham Sahara (winner of the DJ Awards resident Ibiza DJ of the year ) was spinning some seriously epic tunes back to back with 2 Vilas, and between them they which kept the crowd uplifted and dancing at the Cherry Room party. Hosted by the ever charming Ulises Braun, who brought his own imitable style to the event, it was a most certainly a night to remember!
Sunday saw the idyllic settings of the Agroturismo Atzaro transformed into something of a Winter Wonderland with their Christmas Market bringing out the festive spirit in everyone who attended. A veritable treasure trove of homemade clothing, jewellery, homewares and accessories were on sale on the various stalls spread throughout the picturesque grounds, giving us a chance to indulge in some serious retail therapy and even find some gorgeous Christmas gifts. We were particularly taken by John and Dawn´s wonderful array of alpaca fur scarves for sale, perfect for keeping cosy on the cold winter nights! Also displaying her fabulous fashion flair was Kate Marron of La Boutique Ibiza, who´s display of supremely stylish and unique clothes and accessories had us entranced, as did the dazzling display of crystals brought to you by Jade Marsh. This week´s market also saw the launch of Ibiza´s first dress exchange agency, introduced by island resident Helen Cockle, this event, within the market, saw a host of & pre-owned luxury clothes and accessories for sale and exchange. Islanders were invited to bring their own beautiful pieces along and exchange them for something special this Christmas. Helen promised a pre-arranged collection of authentic, immaculate designer clothes, accessories and original one-off pieces, and did not disappoint! Keep an eye out for the next event, definately a must do for the fashionistas amongst you!
After enjoying the Christmas vibe we decided to kill two birds with one stone, and fill our stomachs with a delicious Sunday Roast at the eternally popular winter lunch venue Project Social over in Santa Eulalia. Always a favourite Sunday dining destination, this week was even more inviting as the venue hosted the book launch and signing of the legendary hotelier and all round Ibiza icon Tony Pike. Personally signing his autobiography, ´Mr Pikes´, which tells his infamous stories about his hedonistic life, which includes parting with Freddie Mercury, and of course, the filming of the now legendary music video Club Tropicana with Wham at Pikes Hotel. Ibiza Unlocked were privileged to chat with the man himself and receive a signed copy of his book.
So, who says, Ibiza is not a winter destination?! With more and more unique and interesting events coming up, allow us to keep you up to date with all the happenings on Ibiza this winter, and don’t forget, it’s never too early to start planning your Ibiza 2018 holiday!