Ibiza, on the Pityuses archipelago, at the heart of the Mediterranean, boasts spectacular, panoramic views of its stunning reliefs, white rocks and the earthy hues of its incredible, natural landscape. With its fashionable reputation for seaside fun, it is the ideal location for visitors who wish to reap its benefits and yet retreat behind the doors of a spectacular residence.
The Phénicie estate is only a few feet from the sea, boasting a private forest, an olive grove and landscaped gardens that surround three residences, which all sit in front of a spectacular view of the archipelago. The first is a luminous, white lap of luxury, typical of the cubic style architecture found on the island. Its clear, contemporary lines contrast with the second residence, which presents beige and brown cut stone façades.
The third is a renovated building that was once used to produce olive oil – an ode to the flourishing agricultural past of the estate. Huge terraces around the properties provide different ambiances, depending on the mood of visitors. A particularly sunny spot is the terrace that lines one of the three swimming pools, which is natural in design and incorporates rocks and waterfalls; the perfect place for a dip followed by a delicious barbecue whilst lounging under a shady pergola.
The sheer size and beauty of the estate is reminiscent of a Douanier Rousseau painting; it entices and encourages guests to explore its terrain, from its nooks and crannies to its expansive gardens, disconnected from the rigours of daily life. The main residence is classic in style where rounded furniture and touches of gilt blend in with a palette of light blues and greys. A fully fitted kitchen, likewise decorated in pastel colours, will appeal to any gastronome wishing to share a ‘guisat de peix’ (a delicious, regional fish casserole) around a table that sits 12. Several sitting rooms, where clear, floral and Provencal colours abound, offer different settings, whether it be for a teatime break or relaxing in front of the fireplace’s embers. Indeed the whole estate hides numerous hidden treasures along its corridors – a private patio with subtle lighting, a tinkling fountain, and the climbing plants in a secret garden – each element a pleasure to discover.
All in all, comfort is paramount, from the fitted kitchens to the huge, welcoming dining rooms. The immense living area in what was one the olive pressing room, has a vertiginous 7 metre high ceiling and blends rustic with luxury in honour of the fascinating past this residence has to offer. The bedrooms are elegantly dressed; classic furnishings in harmony with blues, violet and grey encourage rest. All benefit from private dressing and bathrooms and a number have either a Jacuzzi or sauna. The rooms have direct access to outdoors where guests can enjoy private gardens, terraces and patios that seem to come straight out of the dreamy worlds in The Arabian Nights.