Ibiza’s Style Hotel: Mirador De Dalt Vila

Guests flock to Hotel Mirador De Dalt Vila for candlelit love-ins, drawn by the spectacular views and Dalt Vila’s romantic allure.

ON Dalt Vila’s sun-bleached summit, within a quaint maze of atmospheric alleyways and cobbled channels with wonky charm, the majestic Hotel Mirador stands calm and self-assured. Rose-hued and palm tree-lined, it is impressive, but not imposing, yet behind the grand facade you’ll find a surprisingly compact and intimate place of luxury and class.

The setting itself is unrivalled as far as Ibiza landmarks go: the iconic hilltop hamlet with its 16th-century wall rises up over Ibiza Town’s fine historic quarter, overlooking the picturesque port and its aquamarine waters. Dalt Vila’s delightful historic settlement with UNESCO world heritage status is the perfect base from which to explore the island’s ancient capital, or to observe its bustle quietly from afar.

Built in 1905 and converted, five years ago, from a family mansion into a luxury hotel, Hotel Mirador de Dalt Vila is every bit as impressive as its privileged surroundings. It is managed by the Fajarnes family who lived here for generations, and in 2009 it joined the exclusive Relaix Châteux international group of hotels – the only one of its kind on the island.

The ground-level cocktail bar is enriched with terracotta tones, painted chocolate pillars and warm rustic character; an interesting feature reveals impressive Phoenician sea treasures buried beneath a glass floor. Next door, the restaurant opens daily for lunch and candlelit dinners, offering Mediterranean gourmet cuisine by Chef Juan José Ribas. The restaurant is tiny, but a front patio and rear poolside terrace provide al fresco dining alternatives, and room service is available 24 hours.

From the reception’s black Murano crystal chandelier to the opulent green onyx bathroom walls, the Hotel Mirador is a stunning example of refined elegance. All 13 rooms are sophisticated yet simple in style, each with a Jacuzzi and lofty views of the port, city or sea. The no-holds-barred, 150m2 Grand Suite boasts a private terrace, sauna and gym, and is the ultimate reflection of Hotel Mirador’s deluxe standards.

The hotel has newspaper and laundry services, massage and beauty treatments, a pillow menu, free wi-fi throughout and the El Centro business centre with desk space for guests. A van service provides free airport pick up on request and the hotel’s private powerboat can be booked to rent. There’s also a vast and very unique selection of European-inspired paintings from the owner’s private art collection, to satisfy any cultural cravings.

First published in Pacha Magazine, Ibiza, May 2011.
© Abbey Stirling