Inside She Made Me designer’s bohemian getaway to Ibiza

When Chloé Dunlop first launched her line, She Made Me, she was living out of her suitcase between Bali, Europe and the States, so it's no surprise that the brand would eventually become an amalgamation of her own travel experiences. On her recent trip to Ibiza, a destination she's always wanted to visit, she discovered that the island had two contrasting facades at play: "People come to party, but others come to recharge and re-explore themselves," says Dunlop, "I was drawn to [this] eclectic energy, [as well as the] colours of the beaches, coves and the arid landscape." Below, Chloé shares her guide to Ibiza's oft-overlooked bohemian side, Portinatx.

Best hotel?

Los Enamorados in Portinatx


Best brunch spot?


La Paloma is beautiful for brunch and dinner too. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly; almost like you're visiting a family friend's house and the locally-sourced, farm-to-table menu is simple but so delicious.



Best beach party?


Benirras Beach. During the day the crystal clear water makes for an idyllic cool-off spot. In the afternoon the entire beach transforms into a lively hub for sun set, and on Sunday afternoons it's nice to sit down by the beach and watch the drum circles - an Ibiza tradition.



Best untapped beach?


Cala d'en Serra. It's a beautiful, secluded rocky cove with crystal clear turquoise water. There are a couple of sun beds available for rent, but this beach is perfect if you want an authentic Ibiza beach experience with a touch of bohemian nostalgia (without the crowds).

Best neighborhood to explore if you need a break from the beach?


San Joan, a secluded rural town in the north, is nice over the weekend when you need a break from the beach. Each Sunday, the town has a fun hippy market with live music and beautiful artisan wares for purchase.



Best local food?


El Bigotes - It is a must. There are only two seatings a day, and the menu offers the most amazing seafood dishes. The meals are so simple, but the simplicity paired with eating right on the water is such a beautiful experience.



Best shops?


Vincente Ganesha. Come here for beautiful, traditional block-printed bohemian dresses from India.

Best place to take in the sunset?


I loved the sunset at Cala d'Hort. The setting sun throws beautiful pink tones over Es Vedra. It's nice to sit down by the water and watch the sun go down, or sit in one of the few beach bars after a long day in the sun.



Best chill bar?


I loved the little bar at Cala d'en Serra. Unlike other places in Ibiza, you can leave your things on the beach and wander up to get freshly-made sangria. There are only two tables, but they will serve you on the beach (they also serve fresh sea bass, salads and burgers).


Best dinner spot to dress down for?


Chiringuito Cala Xuclar, set in the sand of a tiny cove just south of Portinatx. The restaurant is only a small wooden shack with eight or so open-air tables, but the food is incredible. It's nice to sit here, feet in sand, enjoying fresh seafood and salad after a day spent by the beach.


Best dinner spot to dress up for:

Los Enamorados. I loved staying here, spending the day exploring Portinatx and coming back to have cocktails out on the deck for sunset.



Tourist trap to avoid?

Staying in Sant Antoni or heavily populated areas, the north is so beautiful with that traditional bohemian soul Ibiza is known for. If you look around, you can find a beautiful, secluded Finca with the most incredible vistas over the hills and out to the Mediterranean Sea - there is no comparison.

Ibiza's best kept secret?


The peacefulness of the north, you can often find yourself a cove to spend the day without anyone else in sight.

Monica Mendal

Monica Mendal is a New York City-based writer, editor, and brand consultant focusing on fashion and travel. She contributes regularly to Vogue US, Vogue MX, Travel + Leisure, and L'Officiel US in addition to Condé Nast Traveler, Architectural Digest, Matches Fashion, SUITCASE, JW Marriott Magazine, and more. Previously, Monica was a fashion editor holding posts at Condé Nast Publications, such as Vogue, GQ and Glamour. 

http://www.monicamendal.com
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