A summer holiday in Ibiza might bring expectations of wild nights of partying – but Matthew Earth's stay at the revamped Grand Palladium Palace in Playa d'en Bossa proved there's more to the island than meets the eye
Ibiza may have a justified reputation for being the go-to party destination of Europe, where you stumble back from one of its many superclubs at 6am as the sun starts to rise.
But this gorgeous island in the Balearics has so much more to offer – whether it be for families, couples or just a group of friends looking for a sunny getaway.
Nestled on the edge of Playa d'en Bossa is the recently-revamped Grand Palladium Palace, an all-inclusive five-star resort with a wide selection of facilities for whatever kind of holiday you're looking for.
My stay at Grand Palladium started with a friendly welcome at the check-in desk before I headed straight for the buffet restaurant, having made sure to save room to sample the hotel's food as soon as I got there.
Meal times at La Sal restaurant contain the sort of fayre you'd expect in the Mediterranean – seafood fans are definitely catered for – but also a decent choice of meats, vegetables and pasta, as well as traditional paella.
Settling into my room, a twin bed with plenty of space and a pool view balcony, was made easier by the air con being set at a lovely cooling temperature in time for my arrival.
But the scorching late-June heat meant I was in desperate need of a cool-off.
The new main pool is one of the fresh additions to this upgraded hotel, and it's a gentle place to chill out at while enjoying one of the many drinks on tap at the bars dotted around the site.
The pools at the hotel were mostly used by adults, with the Grand Palladium White Island hotel adjoined to the site more for families with children (your all-inclusive wristband also gets you access here).
For the more active guest, staff members would periodically invite people by the water to take part in a quick game of water polo or an aquatic stretching session, to name a couple of examples.
Being all-inclusive, peckish guests are never too far away from some warm food. The Xtra Time sports bar had grub like nachos and hot dogs on offer at all hours as the restaurants have set opening times.
Grand Palladium also boasts several more formal bars, too, and they're a great place to enjoy a beer, wine, cocktail or hot drink.
The hotel's location in Playa d'en Bossa is arguably one of its strongest points – my transfer from the airport was about five minutes and is perfect for those who want to get to their accommodation quickly – and the beach is mere steps away from the rooms.
That being said, you can expect to hear planes regularly taking off in the peak summer months.
Party animals will be pleased to know Ushuaia and Hard Rock are a short walk into town, with clubs like Amnesia and Pacha only a taxi ride away if you want to see some of the many superstar DJs that flock to Ibiza each year.
The sports bar is also open 24/7, meaning it was the bustling place to be either before or after a big night out to stock up on food and drink.
But those looking for a more low-key break will enjoy a day out exploring the nearby Ibiza Town, taking some boats out for some paddleboarding and other watersports or heading to the laid-back island of Formentera. Staying at Grand Palladium means you're never far from what you want to do in Ibiza.
To be honest, Grand Palladium has so much to offer you could probably spend the bulk of your holiday there without having to leave the site. There's a lovely and tranquil spa near the main entrance, Italian-themed and Mexican-themed restaurants run by the hotel next door and evening entertainment at the huge outdoor theatre.
Whatever you're looking to get out of your Ibiza holiday, staying at Grand Palladium has to be a recommendation given its facilities, location, food and drink and the general feeling of welcomeness. It seemed like no stone was left unturned to ensure my stay was as relaxing or action-packed as I wanted it to be.
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