Ibiza is forever evolving, UNVRS has opened to almost universal acclaim (see what I did there) raising the stakes on the island yet again and the clubbing world.
The beauty of the White Isle is that there is something for all ages but these days it’s especially good for an ‘older crowd’ and by this I mean 35+. Some of the best restaurants in Europe, cool bars to hang out in sipping long drinks and cocktails, beach clubs and night clubs where older faces aren’t greeted by shock and horror by young whippersnappers with too much energy and not enough experience.
The jewel in this coveted crown is undoubtedly Pikes, the rock ‘n’ roll hotel made famous by Tony Pike and his dangerously high libido (if you haven’t read his book then I can heartily recommend it).
The story of the making of Wham’s Club Tropicana video is much told but never gets old for those of a certain age. Throw in Freddie Mercury in his heyday and a bit of prime Grace Jones and more recently Kylie Minogue and Ed Sheeran and Rock n Roll doesn’t even come close to describing the antics. If only the walls could talk.
The beauty of Pikes is that it’s accessible to all but here’s the best bit – you’re welcome as long as you’re over 27 and not a c**** (see sign on door if offended). Guestlist only via their website avoids those ridiculous super club entrance prices and gives a special glow when walking in (if you don’t have flip flops and glitter and can get past the eagle eyed Ebony).
The place is sumptuous with lush gardens lit to perfection. Different areas cater for different tastes. The pool terrace with its nooks and crannies is a super cool place to hangout before midnight especially the famous poolside table and the courtyard with separate bar area where the restaurant used to be is ideal for mingling.
Freddie’s is the iconic bijou nightclub where the great and the good have all played. Its pulsating beats will penetrate your soul, throw in the ping pong ball karaoke bathtub (you did read that correctly) and the piano singalong bar area with Roberto and you’re probably starting to understand that this is no ordinary night out but Pikes is no ordinary place and Ibiza is no ordinary island.
The garden terrace which doubles up as a restaurant before midnight is where you go to chill and chat. All in all it’s the complete package for the more discerning who want to have some good old fashioned adult fun.
Pikes has become so successful in its own right that they have now taken its ‘Pikes Presents’ concept on Tuesdays to their sister venue 528, a cool place nestled in the hills on the outskirts of San Antonio, or as they put it ‘an outdoor venue that embraces the island’s natural beauty and energy, a place perfectly in tune with the Pikes spirit.
This promises to be something different once again, in keeping with their USP which is to prioritise the older crowd in cool surroundings with a door price that won’t break the bank. Since it’s launch in 2018 Pikes Presents has seen the likes of Fatboy Slim, The Blessed Madonna & Kylie Minogue (yes, really!), Sven Väth, Robyn, Mark Ronson, Carl Craig, Goldie, Jarvis Cocker, Miles Kane and Denis Sulta – just to name a few so expecy some surprises.
Pikes and ‘Pikes Presents’ continue to be the flag bearers for an older crowd who have no intention of stopping anytime soon. The Club Tropicana drinks might not be free but I for one, am all in!
MAN IN SAN AN by Martin Makepeace 