OD Talamanca

Created from the leveled ashes of a 1970s-built hotel, OD Talamanca was constructed from the ground up and is an excellent example of functional and creative design from the folks at OD Hotels. OD Talamanca may have 117 guest rooms, but its well-thought-out design makes it feel like a bespoke boutique hotel. There's an undeniable relaxing yet hip vibe, like any one of the guests could be a celeb lying low. In fact, it isn't uncommon for visiting DJs to stay here during high season or to see models striding past the pool. 

Reception sits casually at the end of the shiny and sleek black lobby bar, and the restaurant is an open-air affair with modern tables and chairs all individually illuminated with single hanging light fixtures. There's a living wall of green moss and eucalyptus behind, and a gallery wall with rotating artworks displayed. Lots of natural light fills the space, streaming through large windows, and there's just the right amount of greenery for a balanced look. From the multilevel pools to the cushioned wardrobe seating, this hotel is a good example of just how smart design can be. The hotel tends to attract couples and friends traveling in groups. 

OD Talamanca is located on a quiet hill in the semi-residential and family-favorite area of Talamanca. The sea is just a quick two-block walk down, the coastline is rocky and devoid of beach. Several cafes, bars, and restaurants lining the waterfront are also within walking distance, but the area is a far cry from the party scene found elsewhere on the island. Just out front of the hotel, you'll find a curbside ATM, scooter rental shop, and cafe.

• 12-minute drive to Old Town
• 13-minute drive to Ibiza Airport
• 14-minute drive to Port of Ibiza
• 15-minute drive to Playa D'en Bossa
• 18-minute drive to Es Cavallet Beach
• 19-minute drive to Dalt Vila
• 20-minute drive to Santa Eulalia
• 25-minute drive to San Antonio 

The hotel's stylish and functional design extends to OD Talamanca's guest rooms and suites. Sophisticated color schemes in white, navy blue, and beige give a fresh, contemporary beach vibe, while the sleek modern furniture and natural wood keep it upscale. The roomy, wood-slatted walk-in closets are among the rooms' standout design elements and they contain wooden hangers, laptop safes, and cushioned seating areas for putting on shoes. There are bathrobes and slippers, plus Smart TVs, fresh apples, and pillow menus. The free soft drinks and water in the minibars (snacks and booze cost extra) are a nice touch. Partially open bathrooms have frosted privacy glass, vanities with double basin sinks, and walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads. 

Most units are spacious, though the Standard Rooms' narrow configuration can feel cramped. Upgrades to Deluxe Room Terraces feel nearly twice as large and they include 30-square-foot private terraces with loungers overlooking the pool. Lofts are located in the Executive Building and they have an integrated balcony design, and come with extras like modern soaking tubs, tower stereos, and Nespresso machines with free pods. 

Suites not only score you more space, but they also have extra perks like free Smart Car rental, including mileage and insurance, and free airport transfers. The Junior Suites are stylish, with sliding wood partition doors separating bedroom and living areas, wood-slatted accent walls, and amenity bars. The bedroom areas are snug, but fit king-size beds, closet areas, and bathrooms with both soaking tubs and showers. The hotel's crown jewel is the Duplex Suite. A popular choice for royalty and VIP guests, this is a dual-level unit with digital light controls, two en-suite bedrooms, and narrow, full kitchens with service entrances. However, the best feature is the rooftop terraces with plunge pools, sunbeds, and lounge areas, and bathrooms have steam showers and whirlpool tubs.  

The hotel's multilevel pool area is one of its best and most attractive features. This is a chic and sophisticated tri-level space with a different style pool on each level and a small poolside bar serving drinks, tapas, and ceviche. Weekly poolside events include lively fashion shows, DJs, and pop-up events, but it's otherwise a quiet spot relax. New for 2018, all room rates will include the hotel's tasty breakfast buffet. There's a health station and made-to-order options from the menu, plus quality standard hot and cold items. The open-plan restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine for lunch and dinner, and it supplies room service. 

The hotel's gym may be small and windowless, but it's well-equipped with TechnoGym machines sporting individual screens and internet access, including Netflix. We were told on our visit that the hotel plans to add an adults-only pool and lounge area on the rooftop, and until then, a trellised rooftop space overlooking the pools is the place to hang out. Standard freebies include Wi-Fi throughout, a welcome cava drink from the lobby bar, and valet parking. Pets are accepted (with weight restrictions) for an extra fee, and they even get their own beds, bowls, treats, and shampoo. Staff at the 24-hour reception desk function as stand-in bartenders for easy late-night drinks. This hotel has an exceptionally large and spacious underground garage that can fit up to 77 vehicles, a rare and valuable find in Ibiza.