Why Oku Ibiza Is The Ultimate Escape On The White Isle
Oku Ibiza has upped the ante when it comes to a five-star stay in the Balearics
Ibiza often gets a free pass when it comes to hospitality. Poor service? “Stop being so uptight, the vibe is relaxed here”. Tiny, basic rooms with no creature comforts? “Join in the laid-back lifestyle”. Poor design? “It is all about being boho-chic”. This would all be well and good – understandable, even – if it wasn’t for the fact that you were being charged €50 for a basic burger. Fries? Extra. The math doesn’t add up.
Which is why Oku is such a welcome addition to the island. It embraces all its Balearic flavour, but adds in a healthy dose of world-class luxury as seasoning. Think DJs playing upbeat house music at the 50-metre pool, but the loungers having distinctive Missoni aqua stripes, efficient servers dispensing Clean Routine purifying smoothies from the on-site juice bar and providing sustenance from To Kima’s Asian-accented menu. The crispy tuna pizza, P’Oku Bowls and plump lobster rolls are particular highlights from the all hits, no misses offering. The kitchen’s prowess is also on display during the sumptuous breakfast; think make-your-own açaí bowls and juices, bountiful fruit displays, patisserie and freshly-baked breads, plus eggs of every variety with all their accompaniments.
There is a huge emphasis on modern, minimal design, with enough flourish and detailing to add warmth and interest. The name gives a hint of what to expect; the Japanese influence is evident, with an outdoor-indoor synergy spilling into everything from room layout (large terraces overlooking the pool off er prime people-watching) to eateries.
The space oozes holiday vibes; from the smiling, perma-tanned team that’s just a WhatsApp message away to organise boat trips, private beach-side picnics and reservations at nearby Cala Gracioneta. Follow their suggestions; a guided private paddle-board sunset trip, ducking into crystal-clear lagoons and taking in the coast was a bucket-list experience.
The newly-unveiled Teyo – the resort’s flagship Asian fusion spot that’s already cemented itself as a lively hotspot – taps into dishes that use fire as their cornerstone. Chef Mark Vaessen has managed to find a new niche for Nikkie cuisine, concocting dishes you won’t have ever tried before. Think king crab with yellow curry, spiced lamb skewers on a bed of hummus and calamari with a satay sauce.
Musicians and DJs appearing nightly adds to the allure. The hotel’s location – on a quiet corner of the island beloved by walkers and locals thanks to its cliff side pathways offering spectacular views and hidden coves – is another draw, with the allure of the big clubs far enough not to encroach on the serenity, but near enough to be able to dip in whenever you like.
Getting there: Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad fly direct to Madrid, from which there are regular flights to Ibiza’s San José Airport.
Imagery supplied