Mapped Out with Deborah Brett
WHAT TO DO IN… IBIZA
Ibiza has long held a magical appeal to those seeking bohemia, sunshine and beauty. Ever since the hippy community descended in the ‘60s, its rustic landscape, abundance of beaches and laidback energy has made it one of the most popular islands in the world. Visitors come for either the party scene or for tranquillity and zen, but where do you start beyond the tourist traps? Ceramicist and Wardrobe ICONS Fashion Editor at Large Deborah Brett has been coming to the White Isle for 20 years and bought a holiday home on the Southwest coast overlooking the iconic rock of Es Vedrà. Here, she offers an insider take on where to go, eat and shop on this most legendary of island idylls.
Ibiza feels like home because…
“…of the energy here. Because of the rugged landscape with its red earth and volcanic cliffs. Because of the hills of pine trees and bay after bay of different beaches and coves.”
A normal weekend in Ibiza is…
“Sunday lunch on our local beach of Cala Carbo at Balneario, feet in the sand and a big plate of paella. While we wait for the food, the kids climb the rocks above the beach or take a paddle board out. Ibicencan restaurants are super relaxed, and we often add another 10 people to a table. It becomes one big party.”
An ordinary weekend looks like…
“It might be going to a local market in Sant Josep where artisans, from food-makers to basket-weavers, show their wares. Or taking a little boat round the coast to discover the coves or visiting friends at their home for a lazy dinner.”
Ibizan style looks like…
“Anything goes! But make sure to add a touch of vintage and sparkle. And when it comes to accessories, more-is-more with jewelry and beads, studded belts and fringed bags, although feet are always bare. I love how eclectic the fashion is. It’s footloose and fancy-free, a bit like the island itself.”
How has spending time in Ibiza impacted your approach to style?
“I’ve always dressed in this way. While I’ve become a little more streamlined in my city dressing, choosing to opt for more structured and masculine looks, I love that my Ibizan style hasn’t changed. It’s still full of flounce, color and lots of beaded jewelry.”
My Ibizan weekend wardrobe constitutes…
“I love all the artisanal detailing found in the work of Ulla Johnson and Vanessa Bruno and anything rattan, raffia or macramé. When it comes to accessories, I’m always drawn to anything blue and white to match my beautiful home.”
The tourist attraction that’s worth the crowds is…
“Sunset Ashram for the cocktails and the sunset views.”
“The new market held at Six Senses in Portinatx every last Friday of the month. The curator, Daniela Agnelli, finds different island creatives to showcase their work each month, including jewelers and local ceramic artists.”
“Los Jardines De Palerm. It’s a small family-run hotel just above the town of Sant Josep. It’s super charming and chic and close to so many of the best beaches.”
“La Luna nell’Orto. It’s in Sant Miquel in the north and you sit under fig trees and eat the most delicious pasta or meat from the Argentine grill.”
