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Crafting Calm: Fabio Leoni’s Vision for Hotel Riomar Ibiza
- Unconventional Luxury Magazine
- May 28
- 4 min read
Fabio Leoni’s path from the quiet rhythms of hospitality to leading Hotel Riomar Ibiza shows how care, presence, and purpose can gently transform the way we experience a place. In an era where luxury is increasingly defined by meaning, emotion, and connection, Hotel Riomar Ibiza stands as a quiet force of transformation on the White Island. At the helm is Fabio Leoni, General Manager, whose vision redefines high-end hospitality by focusing on the essence of human experience. We sat down with him to explore how Hotel Riomar Ibiza translates this philosophy into everyday practice, from its tailored services and team culture to the atmosphere that guests often describe as “a feeling you can’t quite put into words, but never forget.” In this conversation, Fabio Leoni shares an inside look at the philosophy behind Hotel Riomar Ibiza, speaking candidly about his approach to hospitality, the culture he’s built with his team, and the subtle alchemy that makes Hotel Riomar Ibiza more than just a place to stay.
1. Today, the concept of luxury goes beyond material aspects and seeks authentic, personal experiences. How do you interpret this vision at Hotel Riomar Ibiza, and what approach have you adopted to deliver high-end hospitality on a unique island like Ibiza? In today’s context, luxury is no longer solely associated with material wealth; it has evolved into a pursuit of unique and authentic experiences, moments that leave a lasting emotional impact. At Hotel Riomar Ibiza, our approach to premium hospitality is built on two main pillars: meticulous attention to detail and the personalization of each guest’s experience. Every guest has distinct needs and desires, and we are committed to creating tailor-made experiences that meet them fully. For us, true luxury is making every guest feel pampered and worry-free, thanks to a highly trained team that provides service with warmth and genuine care.
We also offer a range of exclusive services- hiking, kayaking, yoga, live music, and curated culinary experiences that allow our guests to relax and truly connect with the island.
In short, luxury for us means creating a personal and authentic connection with each guest, delivering experiences that exceed expectations and are deeply rooted in wellbeing, culture, and the natural beauty of Ibiza.
2. Building a team capable of delivering impeccable service is fundamental for a hotel like yours. How do you select and train the associate at Hotel Riomar Ibiza to ensure the level of attention to detail and understanding required by your discerning international clientele?
Our team is the beating heart of Hotel Riomar Ibiza, as confirmed by the incredibly positive feedback we receive from guests, often praising the human quality of our service. For us, excellence in hospitality starts with people. That’s why we take great care in both selecting and training our staff. We look for individuals who not only possess strong technical skills but also embody key values such as empathy, authenticity, and a natural desire to care for others.
Our recruitment process is rigorous: we assess not only experience but also attitude and the ability to connect with an international, often demanding clientele. Multilingualism, overseas experience, and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone are valuable assets, as they demonstrate flexibility, adaptability, and resilience qualities essential in a high-end hospitality environment.
Once onboard, our team members undergo continuous training, supported by department heads, our HR team, and advanced tools provided by Marriott, one of the world’s leading hotel groups. The training focuses on both operational competencies and soft skills, which are crucial for delivering a high-standard yet sincere and human service.
We also place strong emphasis on company culture and a sense of belonging. We want every team member to feel part of a shared vision. That’s why we communicate transparently about goals, achievements, and areas for improvement, fostering a work environment that encourages growth, collaboration, and everyday excellence.
3. Every hotel has its unique characteristics. Could you share something about Hotel Riomar Ibiza that only those who live it from the inside truly understand, but that reflects the essence of what you offer your guests?
The essence of Hotel Riomar Ibiza is something you can only truly grasp by experiencing it. Beyond the refined design, privileged location, and exclusive services, what makes it truly special is a unique atmosphere- one of energy, balance, and genuine connection. Many guests mention it, and we as staff feel it too: there’s an immediate sense of harmony here. It’s not just a stay, it’s a rejuvenating experience.
Behind the scenes is a team that works with authentic passion. People here are not just colleagues, they are a real community. And this spirit shines through in the service, which is natural, warm, and sincere.
I believe that what truly sets Riomar apart is its ability to foster deep connections: between the guest and the place, among people, and even with oneself. This isn’t something you can design on paper- it emerges from a living, shared culture that everyone truly believes in. It’s this alchemy that allows us to work every day with enthusiasm and achieve outstanding results, financially, in terms of guest satisfaction, and through the engagement of our entire team.
Through Fabio Leoni’s words, the essence of Hotel Riomar Ibiza comes into sharper focus, not as a typical resort, but as a state of mind. Guided by a philosophy rooted in warmth, presence, and intentionality, Hotel Riomar Ibiza offers something rare in today’s fast-paced world: the luxury of stillness, of true connection. Whether through its design, its people, or its curated experiences, the hotel invites guests to slow down, to reconnect with the island, with others, and ultimately with themselves. And it’s this quiet, deliberate vision that places Hotel Riomar Ibiza in a class of its own on the Ibiza hospitality landscape.
