Gran Hotel Montesol, Ibiza - hotel review

Gran Hotel Montesol is a striking building, ideally positioned for exploring the many sides of Ibiza...

Where is it? In the heart of Ibiza town, overlooking the marina and its super yachts. The ancient bastions and modern markets of Dalt Vila or Upper Town are steps away.

What’s the story? Originally established in 1933, Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is steeped in history as it was the first purpose-built hotel on the island and has been declared an asset of cultural interest by UNESCO. It recently reopened as part of the Curio Collection, the design focused venture by the Hilton group.

Design details: While maintaining its striking neo-colonial façade, the inside of the property is cool and contemporary with nods to its heritage. The ground floor has fabulous geometric tiles, an Art Deco style bar and a faux dinosaur skeleton (random but it works). Palm trees and wicker lighting evoke the Mediterranean vibes while a black and white photography collection is a fun reminder of the glamorous early stages of Ibiza’s clubbing scene.

Guest rooms are sophisticated with a whiff of La Dolce Vita. Sumptuous wooden floors blend with glossy wardrobes with golden handles, Scandi furniture and decorative illustrations. Sweeping windows with French doors overlook the town or the port. A fitted seating and table area for two makes for a handy dining or office space. The generously sized marble bathrooms are ultra chic.

Which room? A Premiere room overlooking the old town is a must. Sweeping floor to ceiling balcony windows offer breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is something rather magical about waking up to this hilly vista, with the bustling promenade below.

On the menu: The ground floor Café Montesol, which doubles as the check in area, is a vibrant spot. Open all day, guests can enjoy breakfast whenever they like. The avocado on toast (aka Vegetarian breakfast) is a delicious, healthy option while a banana smoothie is a good refresher.

Anything else I should know? The rooftop bar has sprawling views across Ibiza and is just the place to enjoy a pre or post dinner drink. The hotel is also superbly located for taking the 30-minute ferry across to Formentera, the place to go for incredible beaches (more on that below).

Best for: a weekend break in the heart of Ibiza, with its heritage on your doorstep and the beaches nearby.

How do I get there? Monarch, the scheduled leisure airline, operates flights to Ibiza from London Gatwick, Birmingam and Manchester airports with fares, including taxes, starting from £35 one way (£59 return). For further information or to book Monarch flights visit www.monarch.co.uk.

How do I book? Rates start from £344 per night based on one person staying in a King Classic Room when booking direct at granhotelmontesolibiza.com.

Special offers? Hilton’s Summer Sale, including the Curio Collection, runs until 4 September 2017 and features more than 400 hotels across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It is applicable for stays up to 8 October 2017.

Dreamy day trip

Beso Beach: Formentera

Just across the road from the hotel is the main port area, with ferries to Formantera leaving every half an hour or so. It is absolutely worth hopping on one and enjoying some of the loveliest sea in The Med.

Beso Beach (besobeach.com) is the restaurant to visit before taking a dip. Book in advance as it is relentlessly popular.

There is a laid-back rustic look. Imagine a super chic giant beach shack with with guests encouraged to take their shoes off and enjoy the sand.

The food is delicious and seafood paella for two is a must. A refreshing cocktail and wine list, from Aperol Spritz to Whispering Angel Rose, is on point.

There are two seatings - lunch and dinner - before Beso Beach turns into a bar with a hip DJ. It's the place to be for a beautiful sunset.

Best of all, the twinkling blue waters are just a few steps away.