

Dunas de Formentera
THE HOTEL
For a hotel that’s been open for a year (since summer 2024), for locals and regular visitors, it feels as though the property has always been part of the island, with its thoughtful design and sustainable ethos. Among the sand dunes of Migjorn beach, the hotel’s low-key, chic interiors are by the Palma-based studio Antonio Obrador, whose work includes hotels like Cap Rocat in Mallorca. The large rooms and suites – some in the main building, some in private bungalows – are connected by pathways and boardwalks through the dunes. They’ve been designed with friends and family in mind – some are large enough to add beds for kids.
We arrived barefoot and felt immediately relaxed after being carted to our room in a buggy across the dunes. That laidback atmosphere is immediately evident: low-key luxury wrapped in soft white sand, with notes of wild juniper drifting through the air. There’s a quiet beauty to Formentera itself – far removed from Ibiza’s party scene – and the hotel taps into that mood perfectly. Even when it’s full, it feels like you’re on your own private island, tucked between sand dunes with the Mediterranean in sight.
THE ROOMS
The hotel has just 45 rooms and suites. Some are inside the main building, others are housed in standalone bungalows. Guests will notice how spacious they feel – many are over 50 sq m, which is generous for Formentera – and how private they are too.
Inside, the décor echoes the landscape: sandy tones, off-whites, soft terracotta and natural textures like linen and wood. Pops of Mediterranean blue run throughout, adding just the right amount of colour against the neutral palette. My suite had a large terrace with a shaded seating area and a view over the dunes and sea – perfect for slow breakfasts and evening glasses of rosé.
There are thoughtful extras: 24-hour reception, room service delivered to your balcony, and buggies on hand to whisk you between different parts of the hotel. Families are welcome – infants under two stay free and children of all ages are allowed – but it’s worth noting there are no specific kids’ facilities, so it’s best suited to teens or babies who travel light.
THE FOOD
Caliu, the hotel’s all-day restaurant is in a central position, with sea and pool views. The menu changes daily, depending on the morning’s catch and what’s in season, but expect plenty of simply grilled seafood and Mediterranean produce. One evening, I had grilled prawns followed by a sea bass baked over fire. There are also a huge pizza ovens if you fancy Neapolitan pizzas with focaccia drenched in olive oil. And when you don’t feel like leaving your room, you can order light plates, lunches and cocktails to your room.
Each morning, breakfast is delivered to your doorstep in a wicker basket. Expect freshly baked pastries, toast with homemade jams, yogurt, seasonal fruit and juices – all served alongside freshly brewed coffee. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a relaxed morning on your balcony, with the sound of the waves setting the tone for the day ahead.
THE SPA
While there isn’t a formal spa here, the deep saltwater infinity pool is a welcome relief in the heat. Just a short walk from the beach, it looks straight out across the sea. There are sun loungers dotted around the pool and staff on hand to bring drinks or snacks when you’re in the mood to linger. And of course, if the beach calls, you can stroll down barefoot within minutes.
THE EXTRAS
In line with Formentera’s sustainability ethos, a commitment to eco-friendly practices is central to Dunas de Formentera. There are programmes addressing waste, recycling and decarbonisation, and much of the hotel was designed by reimagining and preserving an existing small property.
Practicalities: you’ll need to fly to Ibiza first, then take a ferry or private boat across to Formentera (there are multiple crossings each day). Once you arrive, cool beach bars and buzzy restaurants are just a short drive away.
THE VERDICT
Formentera has long been Ibiza’s sleepier sibling – and Dunas de Formentera is the perfect base from which to soak up its understated charm. Chic, relaxed and perfectly in tune with the landscape, it’s a hotel that invites you to slow down, switch off and savour the simpler things – delicious seafood, sunsets over the dunes, and long days spent barefoot by the water. I left reluctantly, shoes in hand, already plotting my return.
Lugar Venda De Ses Clotades, 4449, 07872 Formentera, Balearic Islands, Spain
Visit DUNASDEFORMENTERA.COM
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