Inside a dreamy suite at the Montseol Experimental where custom iron chairs with lunar motifs surround a glossy mint table. The golden sun can be seen outdoors – and even on the wall.
Bohemian heritage, beachside ease and farmhouse chic return in Experimental´s seasonal openings across Ibiza and Menorca – head to one of these for a luxury balearic escape
Words by Charlotte Knight
Heralding the arrival of a new season, Experimental are back in the Balearics for another season of design-led hospitality, luxury service, vibrant social spaces and sun-drenched Mediterranean living. Reopening for spring on Friday, April 3rd, they welcomed the season as the Good Friday procession unfolded through the storied streets of historic Dalt Vila, just steps from Montesol Experimental.
When it comes to defining what makes a hotel (and cocktails) cool and creative, Experimental has long had the know how – and it’s been carefully honed since 2007. Among the French hospitality group´s global portfolio of signature speakeasies, wine bars, restaurants and hotels, the long-standing glamorous, and more recently glossy Montesol Experimental, is your iconic luxury city spot. Woven into the fabric of Ibiza for nearly 100 years, the Montesol has observed the island’s many faces from its high vantage point in the heart of Ibiza Town.
The boutique hotel with 33 rooms, known for its rich architectural heritage in the heart of the city features a stylish, street-accessible all-day restaurant called the Café Montesol and a cocktail-led sociable lounge bar. It also offers something increasingly necessary in order to indulge in the best of both worlds; a balance between city and sea. Guests can move effortlessly from the buzz of city living to a slice of island paradise by hopping on a ferry, or luxury yacht to the white sands of Formentera, in less than half an hour. The other option is to grab a taxi and in around the same time you’ll be chilling in laid-back luxury at the group’s exclusive beachside chiringuito outpost, Experimental Beach Club until sunset – before dancing wildly in nearby Chinois or Pacha.
Moving across the Balearic islands, Menorca Experimental presents a different rhythm entirely — an agroturismo escape that leans into the island’s rural, slower-paced country charm and was designed in the spirit of an artist’s holiday cottage. Together, these properties capture the twofold identity of island life. Ibiza, in particular, returns to that moment after a long pause; lively but not yet overwhelming and when the streets still have space to breathe. Spring is the season for those who prefer to cruise rather than race, and to savour rather than seek… so pack your bags and arrive with an appreciation for Experimental´s crop of luxury in the Balearics.
Montesol Experimental Ibiza
The story begins with a memorable lemon-hued façade. The soft yellow, reminiscent of spring blossoms carries a timeless legacy — unmistakably the marvelous Montesol. Positioned along a tree-lined boulevard just moments from the islands main boat port, in the heart of Ibiza’s old town and close to Dalt Vila, the historic 5-storey mansion rises elegantly; both emblematic and deeply storied. Dating back to 1933 the neocolonial landmark feels like it could be part of a movie. Crisp white columns, balconies that spark curiosity behind tall wooden shutters, elegant pediments, traditional arches, and a rooftop with views that feel romantic and nostalgic, owing to the beautiful architecture of the old city.
Cosmic inspired sun and moon motifs inject joy to the retro-yet-contemporary cocktail bar that stirs up play-mode (but often guests are there on business).
Inside, guests should sample a deliciously mixed cocktail in the stylish lounge bar on the ground floor, or from the magical rooftop (open from Friday 24 April). The pavement outside of the grand entrance is lined with lovely cafés and is moments from the super-yachts, world heritage castle, authentic boutiques and people-watching spots that stretch into the evening. The buzzy hotel lures in locals and tourists from the street for refuge from the sun-in-the-city, encouraging drinks over story-swapping across the friendly cocktail bar. A sense of old-world prestige can be felt throughout the hotel — perhaps because it has long been the hotel and bar of choice for artists, musicians and royalty, from Caroline of Monaco to Orson Welles and Pink Floyd, who were undoubtedly attracted to its opulence and up-scale service.
Following an extensive renovation of the nearly 100 year old property in 2023, decoratively speaking the hotel is bold – seemingly a tribute to it actually being the first ever hotel to open in Ibiza. The interiors at the hotel were crafted and characterized by French interior designer Dorothée Meilichzon to reflect Ibiza’s free-spirited soul. Internationally acclaimed, Meilichzon has been profiled in AD Magazine, Wallpaper and House & Garden. A true feast for the eyes, we find layered textures, vintage rattan and detailing: geometric print headboards, high-gloss wardrobes, punchy pattered rugs and couches lined with tassels, adding tons of whimsy and echoing the era of the 70s Bohemia. The decor beautifully mirrors the spirit of multi-faceted Ibiza; creative, glamorous, romantic, sun-drenched and rich in history.
The palette is colourful but not garish. Pastels are celebrated, with the occasional oxblood red or sunset orange used as a counterpoint. Quirky masks decorating the walls are handmade by Mallorca based artist Anna Alexandra whilst the unforgettable pink and plum ¨Play-Doh¨ stools are by Diego Faivre.
Montesol Experimental Ibiza, re-opened 3rd April, 2026
Experimental Beach Club Ibiza
At Experimental Beach Ibiza, it’s a completely different vibe to some of Ibiza’s louder beach clubs. Off the beaten track, a winding road guides you to a magical spot that puts you in a 100% holiday state of mind. Luxurious, but much more low-key, chilled beats rather than anything thumping, and a really calm, easy atmosphere. It’s the kind of place you go to properly switch off, have a long lunch directly from your sunbed (which should be booked in advance) or from the restaurant, and just spend the day barefoot by the sea without it turning into a party. That being said, Experimental beach delivers good energy and will surely uplift your mood, especially if you try a bespoke cocktail or two, or treat yourself to a new outfit from the fashion boutique which is located not only at the beach club, but also inside the hotel Montesol. Expect nothing less than exclusive collections from local and international designers channeling ibiza style.
Set on the beach overlooking the softly pink, glowing salt flats of Las Salinas in the southern most part of the island, the privileged spot offers stunning views across the Mediterranean and Es Vedra, which should be enjoyed at the famous golden hour. The menu takes a lot of inspiration from the Balearics, but in a way that still feels fresh and a bit unexpected.
Experimental Beach Club Ibiza, re-opened 3rd April, 2026 (open every day from 10 am to midnight)
Menorca Experimental
Menorca Experimental is a dreamy 4 star retreat that unfolds as an entire world rather than a hotel. Set deep in the Menorcan countryside near Alaior, the sanctuary is located 18km from Mahon boat Port. The 43 room boutique hotel is set inside a 19th century white-washed finca, boasting a 26 metre infinity pool, and indoor spa with hamman. The property comprises of the main finca, as well as 9 luxury private villas each with private swimming pools.
The landscape at Experimental Menorca invites slowing down, contemplation and time spent outdoors – namely in the stunning infinity pool of 26 metres long.
Encapsulated by wild gardens, scented- pine groves, native juniper trees and land stretching across 30 hectares overlooking the sea, you could not ask for more. Days are spent moving between the pool and shaded terraces, joining yoga class, reading or resting beneath pine trees, enjoying seasonal meals and expertly mixed cocktails that showcase local produce from the vegetable garden. The landscape invites wandering, whether along the pathways to the nearby cliff point to soak up the sweeping views of the coastline, or to the local beach. There’s also a range of activities to enjoy on the island such as horse riding, boat tours, mountain biking, pottery, painting classes – just ask the reception staff for information.
The 43-room agroturismo Experimental Menorca, is set inside a beautiful 19th century white-washed finca with divine views
Colours at the Experimental Menorca are drawn from the Mediterranean vernacular palette; terracotta, limewash and aged wood. Decorations include woven fibers, ceramic details creating a sensory environment that feels both grounded and quietly luxurious. The interior designer Dorothée Meilichzon, even integrated reclaimed elements from old farm structures such as beams, roof tiles and local marès stone. Furniture at the hotel was developed in close collaboration with local artisans on the island – each piece firstly sketched out by Meilichzon.
One of the bedrooms at Menorca Experimental. The design here under the eye of Dorothée Meilichzon, honours the nature and essence of island itself.
Menorca Experimental, re-opened: 3rd April, 2026
Love this story? Don’t forget to subscribe! for free!
Leave a Reply