Ibiza is mourning the death of Manel Aragonés, founder and director of Sunset Ashram, who passed away on Tuesday aged 72. Deeply connected to nature, music and freedom, Aragonés was a defining figure of the island’s alternative spirit.

Known simply as Manel to the many friends he made on the island, he became a symbol of an Ibiza that values authenticity over excess. His philosophy shaped not only a venue, but an entire way of experiencing the island.

An Intimate Farewell Facing Es Vedrà

Family and close friends gathered on Thursday afternoon for a private farewell at his home, overlooking Es Vedrà. This landscape held deep meaning for him.

Attendees placed candles, flowers, photographs and small personal objects. Conversations flowed quietly, mixed with long silences. The ceremony stretched naturally into sunset, a moment Manel always treated as sacred.

Those close to him described the gathering as emotional yet peaceful. Many recalled his intensity, generosity and constant energy.

From Catalonia To Ibiza

Born in Catalonia, Manel arrived in Ibiza decades ago and quickly embraced its alternative and countercultural scene. Over time, he became one of its most recognised faces.

The island did not dilute his character. Instead, it sharpened it. He lived guided by intuition, spiritual curiosity and respect for the natural world. Manel Aragonés Ibiza became synonymous with that mindset.

His life also included deep pain. The death of his son in a traffic accident marked him profoundly. During that period, he lived for years in a cave facing Es Vedrà, with permission from the landowner. That retreat proved transformative rather than destructive.

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Creating Sunset Ashram

At Platges de Comte, Manel changed how Ibiza experienced sunset. As founder of Sunset Ashram, he shifted schedules, rhythms and priorities.

He designed an experience where the sunset set the tempo. Visitors learned to slow down and “give holidays to the intellect,” as he often said. This approach soon became part of Ibiza’s collective identity.

Sunset Ashram did not chase trends. It followed light, sound and atmosphere.

Defender Of Nature And Free Music

Manel also defended nature and music as shared experiences. He rejected heavy commercialisation and opposed monopoly control over sound on beaches.

His ideas placed him at the centre of public debate, especially after authorities restricted music at Sunset Ashram. For him, music represented freedom, joy and collective expression.

A Generation Fades

His death follows that of other countercultural figures, signalling the end of an era. Many see Manel Aragonés Ibiza as part of a disappearing generation that shaped the island’s soul.

With blue eyes, magnetic presence and unfiltered honesty, Manel leaves a deep mark. Ibiza feels quieter without him.