Teranka Hotel

Formentera, Spain

The Balearics know how to party, but they also do profound, away-from-it-all quiet if you know where to look. Kick off your heels and sink into the sand at one of Spain's island gems on stunning Formentera

Summer wouldn’t be the same without dropping anchor in the Mediterranean for a little taste of what the region does best: sun, sea and relaxation – and it’s no secret that the Balearic Islands are the poster children for outstanding natural beauty. Notably quieter and smaller than its closest neighbour, Ibiza, Formentera – accessible only by boat – draws a grown-up crowd of sun-worshippers. And Teranka is the newest and most noteworthy luxury pad to join the scene, having briefly opened its doors last year.

Away from the crowds, on the south-facing, secluded Migjorn beach, Teranka takes advantage of pockets of pine trees, golden sands and the gentle azure sea. These act not only as a backdrop but also an inspiration for the hotel’s founding ethos (its name combines words meaning ‘land’ and ‘anchor’), design philosophy and locally sourced menus. Dine under the stars at the Teranka Rooftop, poolside or in the garden restaurant, with Iberian ham platters, creamy burrata mainstays, Formentera lobster and all the fresh seafood you can eat.

With interiors that only add to the surrounding beauty, 35 minimalistic rooms and suites are spread across three handcrafted stone buildings, complemented by a natural colour palette drawing on hues found in the sea, land and sky. Choose from ‘Mar’ (sea) rooms that are close to both the shoreline and the hotel’s inviting pool; check in to the ‘Tierra’ (earth) rooms for your own private terrace garden; and for those who crave privacy, pick the ‘Cielo’ (sky) rooms for larger living spaces and rooftop terraces. Art also plays a central role, and you’ll discover a rotation of exhibitions and bespoke collections that reflect the relationship between nature and man.

As you might except from an island blessed with unrivalled waters, Formentera does sports exceedingly well. Hit the tranquil, crystal-clear waters for snorkelling, sailing or embrace the laidback lifestyle Formentera does best and simply float. Leave your heels at home as this is the place to swap nights out for wellness, and non-beach days can be spent with a ritual massage, in a Pilates class or with immersive sound meditation. You will come back energised in more ways than one.

Doubles from £328. 00 34 871 873030, teranka.com

Words by Megan Dickson.

This review was taken from the July 2023 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.