If you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, the Balearic Islands should be at the top of your list. But here’s the thing: these islands are more than just postcard-perfect views. They’re a treasure trove of culture, history, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Lucky for you, I’ve teamed up with Renoir’s Spanish Guides to bring you the ultimate insider’s look at Balearic Islands adventures. Ready to dive in? Let’s go! Why the Bale

EL BIGOTES Known as "The Fish Shack at Cala Mastella" or El Bigotes (The Moustache), this refers to the proprietor's whiskers!) El Bigotes still sits at his table for lunch whilst devouring a flagon of red wine. Unfortunately, he is 97 years old and does not come to the restaurant much anymore. (update 2025, we believe, although we can't confirm, that El Bigote passed away in 202 RIP). There are two sittings, noon for fried fish (€25pp) or 2 pm for Bullit de Peix (€34pp). F

CAFÉ BAR FLOTANTE The mythical Bar Flotante (floating bar) is set on the shore of the stunning Platja de Talamanca, just outside Eivissa (Ibiza Town).  Along with its neighbour, Hostal Talamanca, it has been here since the 1960s. Serving locals and tourists alike. You will find nothing fancy here, nor do you need it. The service isn't great or fast, but if you're on vacation and not in a rush, you can enjoy the ambience for as long as you like. The food is basic but decent, w

If you’re anything like me, the idea of diving into a new culinary world is as thrilling as booking a spontaneous trip. And when it comes to food adventures, few places rival the Basque Country. Nestled between Spain and France, this region is a treasure trove of unique flavours and dishes that will make your taste buds dance. Today, I’m taking you on a mouth-watering journey through some of the most iconic and lesser-known delights of Basque Country cuisine. Ready to feast y

SABOR One Michelin star Sabor, founded by Nieves Barragan and José Etura, is just off Regent Street in the little foodie enclave of Heddon Street. Sabor means flavour in Spanish. The restaurant has three distinct areas: the bar and counter on the ground floor, and El Asador on the first floor. The first two are walk-in only, and at El Asador, you need to book. Sabor was awarded One Michelin Star in 2018. We arrived at 7 pm on a Saturday and, after a short wait, were given

RESTAURANTE LA ESCOLLERA La Escollera has been in Puerto de Estepona since 1940. The long-standing harbour-side restaurant, with a large terrace, is one of the best places to enjoy stunning, fresh seafood in Estepona. The restaurant is old school and not fancy. There is an extensive menu featuring freshly caught, local fish, right from the fish market. Fresh fish arrives from the sea in the morning, and you can enjoy it at your table for lunch or dinner within hours. You will

ES GERRET One of the new upscale restaurants in Sant Antoni de Portmany (San Antonio) goes against the town's preconceived image. There is a terrace and a large indoor seating area. We started with tartar de atún (tuna tartar). Calamare panko (deep-fried squid rings coated in panko breadcrumbs). Patatas bravas. Spicy potatoes. Gambas ajillo (sizzling garlic prawns). We had the highly recommended Crema de pistacho (pistachio cream) for dessert. We had a bottle of the very acce

CASINO DE MUNDAKA Mundaka is a town and municipality in the Basque Country, located in the province of Biscay. Mundaka is a working port on the coast and is internationally renowned for its surfing scene. The port is at the town’s centre; from there, the old part of the town grew. All the houses are medieval, with fishermen’s cottages, always looking out to sea. The port has many small boats. Mundaka is well-renowned worldwide for its surf quality. Huge swells roll in from t

RESTAURANTE PELAYO UPDATE PERM A NENTLY CLOSED 2026 From October 5, 2025 (unless a miracle occurs), the time for another historic site in Formentera will end, and we don’t yet know what will happen in 2026. Thank you for all the parties (including Zucchero Fornaciari’s birthdays and his impromptu concerts), for all the Sunday Paellonas for hundreds of people, and for all the family and workers who ran it and always treated us like friends rather than just customers. Good l

SA COVA - DOWNTOWN Sa Cova Downtown, which opened in 2024 on a Sant Antoni (San Antonio) side street, is a Mediterranean-style bistro.  They are the same people from Sa Cova in the old town of Eivissa (Ibiza Town). The restaurant offers a French-Peruvian menu with seasonal products and an elaborate wine list.  The chef, Begoña Aizmendi, offers a concise menu showcasing many of Sa Cova's essentials and a few of her new creations. On a warm evening, we sat outside and opened a