Villa Orchid

ART-CLAD SEAVIEW PAD

Picture yourself winding up a hillside, the scent of foliage wafting through the open window and views of the glistening Mediterranean stretching all the way to Formentera. The car slows as you approach Villa Orchid's crucifix-topped gateway. At first glance, it has all the charm of a traditional Spanish finca, but brace yourself for what treasures you're about to experience within. 

A couple of seconds spent looking around the courtyard, and you're already enamored with Villa Orchid. Tropical palm trees, faded wooden slates, archways and terracotta tiled roofs ooze old town charm. But you realise this is no shy and retiring type as you step inside to a beautifully restored, stylishly modern interior. Contemporary, metallic-hued artwork and a stainless steel kitchen bring it up to date and the open-plan living area provides plenty of space for the group to lounge about.

There is a special sense of calm here, perhaps due to the neutral tones of gold, silver and cream throughout. Or maybe thanks to the tall, arched windows which allow sufficient amounts of natural light and the outdoor scenery in. Whatever it is, it already has you feeling right at home.

Bedrooms are picked at random, with all pairs choosing a number between 1 and 6, making it all the more satisfying when everyone steps into a luxury den. It's hard to be disappointed when double beds, ensuites and unrivalled views are a given, but you feel like you've been particularly fortunate with yours, having landed the master bedroom with a king-sized bed plus views out to the salt pits and Formentera from your own private terrace.

Once you're all unpacked, it's time to explore the outdoors. A couple of the group make a quick visit to the gym, but you make a beeline straight for the in-pool sunlounger. The water has already hit warm temperatures thanks to the intense Ibizan heat and a friend brings you a glass of Dom Perignon to make the experience all the sweeter.

Soon, the barbeque is fired up for your first alfresco lunch beneath the pergola, featuring the freshest grilled fish and bubbly on tap. You're heading to the Cala Jondal stretch for a luxury beach club dining experience this evening to kick off the week in the most stylish fashion, so maybe you should check out that gym later on after all. Then again, you're on the holiday of a lifetime and, if these first few hours at Villa Orchid are anything to go by, you can already see yourself never wanting to leave.