Ibiza is a place where two worlds collide. Though it's renowned for its vibrant party culture, it holds a special place in many of our hearts for the opposite reason. We come here to disconnect, to nourish our souls. The island magnifies its contrasting energies in every form: the music is loud, the fashion even louder, yet it’s also a place where the sea is crystal clear, and the stars have a magical way of bringing you back to yourself every single night. For the co-founders of Oranja - Naomi and Will - "Ibiza lends itself so well to a balanced lifestyle," said Naomi. "It’s why we moved here in the first place. We love a party, but we also love our fitness and a clear mind alongside exploring what the Isla Bonita has to offer."
Fueled by their zest for life, they have created a vibrant new way to holiday and are proud Mom and Dad of Oranja - a fitness retreat based on the island. Calorie counting, detox diets, and juice cleanses? Not their style. They promote a balanced lifestyle, think organic feasts, adventures in nature, sun-soaked workouts, and a cheeky glass or two of sangria.
I sat down with the duo to talk about all things balance and prioritising their health while living on one of the most sought-after party destinations in Europe.
When life gives you oranges, how do you turn them into juice? What’s your go-to strategy for overcoming stress and burnout?
N: These questions are great, we love the zesty theme! Headphones in, trainers on, banging playlist plugged in, and get out for a run. Whenever I feel a bit overwhelmed or stressed, a run always sorts me out. Switching off from screen time and the demon scrolling does me a world of good.
W: Going offline and getting out on a hike with a few juicy cliff jumps and sea swims. Being out in nature always helps me reset, followed by a cheeky siesta.
How do you ensure you stay fresh instead of feeling all squeezed out?
N: Early nights… I get huge satisfaction from climbing into bed around 21:30 and getting my solid 8 hours of sleep, waking up in #smugcity. Keeping on top of hydration throughout the day helps me to stay fresh and focused too, 2.5-3 liters a day.
W: Ditto to this, early nights (most of the time) are a game changer in Ibiza.
Do you think it's possible to lead a healthy life on the island while still enjoying all the zest it has to offer?
N & W: Absolutely, Ibiza lends itself so well to a balanced lifestyle, and it’s why we moved here in the first place. We love a party, but we also love our fitness and a clear mind alongside exploring what the Isla Bonita has to offer. We have a good healthy weekly routine, but if a fave DJ of ours is playing one week, or we’re invited to party at the beach with pals, we won’t say no. Life’s short, so squeeze what you love out of it.
What's your secret ingredient for keeping your day to day wellness rituals zesty rather than feeling like a chore?
N: We both have our own weekly workout plans. I'm a spin instructor and lead weekly Oranja sessions at Club Hipico, Santa Gertrudis. We ride under the orange trees, so I get my weekly spin fix there with an awesome crew. I try to get 3-4 runs in a week, one of those runs with “Island Runners,” a run club set up by some friends here. I like to throw in two strength sessions a week, plus getting out on daily early morning walks with our dog, Frank, so lots of variation to keep it zesty!
W: It took me a while to find the secret ingredient; variation of outdoor workouts is key for me. Calisthenics, hiking, running, and group exercise all bundled into one week keeps things juicy. Shout out to the Wildmen, for a weekly beasting, we work out every Saturday at the calisthenics park in Marina Botafoch. Weighted runs and an intense group workout followed by breakfast at Massa with some top guys.
Favourite place to escape in Ibiza?
N & W: Ses Balendres - It’s a beautiful bay which you can only access by hiking or by boat.
It’s a challenging hike, but the views are incredible, and the water is so clear and welcoming. Mega tranquil vibes here. But we really are spoiled with so many special spots on this island, it’s hard to choose!
What’s your go-to meal / snack / smoothie for energy that lasts you all day long?
N: Most days, without fail, I’ll whip up a protein breakfast shake. I’ve been having this for years now, and it massively energises me and keeps me feeling full and satisfied all day!
Breakfast Shake
Frozen banana (makes it extra creamy when frozen)
Almond milk
Innermost vanilla protein
Greens powder
Peanut butter
Cinnamon
Oats
If I have more time and feel like getting funky in the kitchen, I’ll whip up a spicy shakshuka or fried chili and sesame eggs with homemade guac… delish. Ooh, and guilty pleasure has to be a cheeky almond croissant, love ‘em!
W: I used to struggle with getting my protein in without feeling like I was ready for a siesta afterward. So hands down, my post-workout breakfast is this MEGA yogurt bowl with a ton of protein. I eat one every day; it tastes insane and keeps me energised and full.
Protein Breakfast Bowl
Greek yogurt
100% whey protein
Oats
Peanut butter
Honey
Blueberries
Raspberries
Figs
Kiwi
What’s your current go-to feel-good track you turn up when your head’s in a spin?
N: Oof, it’s a toughie, I’m always listening out for new music as I switch up my playlists every class. Current artists I’m loving: Dennis Cruz, Solomun, Famax, ANOTR… the list goes on. Check out the Oranja Spotify link for some fiery workout playlists.
W: “Papi (Bhabi)” by Eden Shalev and “The Chant” by Duke Dumont. Both naughty tunes.
If you haven't already, get yourself booked onto a juicy escape with Oranja. I'm heading there in October to shake off the high-season work chaos. They're hosting shorter, budget-friendly retreats that instantly gave me zero excuses not to join in and squeeze the last drop out of summer.
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