All trips to Formentera begin by boat and the lack of airport on the quietest and wildest Balearic Island adds to its castaway charm. For a hideaway with a luxurious, barefoot feel, Teranka ticks all the boxes with its proximity to the island’s azure waters, a gallery-worthy art collection, and impressive line-up of culinary and wellness experiences.
The lowdown
From the team behind the much-loved Marbella Club Hotel in Andalusia, this serene beachfront hotel has brought a new level of toes-in-sand style to Ibiza’s bohemian little sister. Guests come here for a real escape and Teranka inspires truly restorative stays, whether that’s making the most of the wellness programme, immersing yourself in the natural beauty on the doorstep, or simply slowing down and unwinding within the sanctuary itself.
Set the scene
The Teranka experience starts at the ferry port with a Land Rover waiting to whisk guests on a scenic 20-minute drive to the south-east of the island, where the glittering Mediterranean Sea is glimpsed beyond bleached-blonde beaches and clusters of pine trees. Teranka itself is located at the end of an unassuming sandy track on a protected, beachside estate and its peaceful energy can be felt from the moment you step through the centuries-old Catalonian door.
Style points
There’s a pared-back scheme here, prioritising a sense of calm while reflecting the island’s coastal palette. The effort to use local materials and artisan techniques such as weaving and ceramics can be admired throughout, and the art collection — curated by Katrina Phillips and featuring predominantly female artists — ensures the spaces feel distinct.
Tell us about the rooms
Each of the 35 rooms and suites feels restful and cocooning thanks to the neutral colour palette and use of natural materials such as linen headboards, jute rugs and cane furniture. Pick between a Mar Room (‘sea’) for a spot in the main house with a sea or pool view, a Tierra Suite (‘earth’) to be amongst the gardens and for a little more space, or a Cielo Suite (‘sky’) for the elevated views.
The food & drink?
The restaurant is stretched out across a wooden deck and spills onto the sand for a laid-back dining experience. Breakfast is a true highlight with an extensive buffet, cold pressed juices and a selection of made-to-order hot dishes. The lunch and dinner menus showcase Mediterranean classics including locally caught fish, creative salads and rice options like paella. Come sunset, heading to the rooftop for ceviche and cocktails is always a good idea.
Anything else to note?
The hotel’s extensive list of activities and events means this is the sort of place you could really never leave. Start the day with a yoga or Pilates class on the deck in the sand dunes, or a session in the outdoor gym — one so aesthetically pleasing even the most workout shy would be tempted to pick up a dumbbell — before enjoying an afternoon of pottery or painting and an evening relaxing with a sound bath or spent stargazing. It’s equally easy to while away a few days horizontal by the outdoor pool which is lined with the comfiest daybeds for lounging.
However, it would be remiss to sleep on the island’s spectacular coastline, best discovered by electric bike which can be borrowed from Teranka free of charge. Formentera is crisscrossed with over 100km of green routes made for exploring by two wheels, and some of the island’s best beaches, the charming town of Sant Francesc, and twice-weekly hippy market at Pilar de la Mola, are all within breezy pedalling distance.
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