When I told friends I was off for 36 hours in Ibiza, most of them looked horrified assuming I was off for a non-stop rave in San Antonio, but they could not have been more wrong…
Taking in the sparkling sea from my ‘downward dog’ pose in the yoga tent, I had a true pinch-me moment of gratitude. Whilst everyone in the UK was facing the drudgery of a drizzly Monday morning commute, I was bathed in the warm Formentera sunshine, remembering how to breathe & learning how to quiet the stereotypical working girl ‘monkey brain.’ This is Gecko Beach Club Hotel in a nutshell, a haven of luxury wellbeing on Formentera’s prettiest coastline.
Having left London on an early morning flight, by lunch time we’d already reached the hotel, our transfer made all the more seamless by one of Gecko’s staff aptly named ‘Angel’, who transported us to our boutique stay via air-conditioned minibus directly from the ferry port (an equally pleasant 30 min ride in warm sunshine straight from Ibiza). On arrival, we shed our autumn layers and indulged in Sangria with a delicious lunch of local fresh fish in the chic all white beach side restaurant, just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Platja de Migjorn beach.
Formentera is famous for its bohemian vibe and a delight to explore, albeit at a leisurely pace – it’s the ideal antidote to bustling city living & its sister party island. After a lazy day on the beach gazing into the crystal clear azure waters & occasionally taking advantage of the hotel’s free paddle boards, we set out for a late afternoon adventure. Gecko’s super friendly team, headed up by the talented Joost Kruissen, gave us great recommendations, including taking a trip to the famous local hippy market, La Mola. Just a short taxi drive up meandering hills, as somewhat braver tourists & locals zipped past us on their scooters –all tanned legs & sunkissed complexions…on our return journey it also provided the most spectacular sunset views. Walking around the artist’s stalls we shopped for jewellery, gourmet food and wine taking in ice cold Coronitas at sundown whilst the local musicians gathered a small crowd in the centre as kids & grandparent’s alike tapped their feet along to the beat.
Back at the hotel we enjoyed a decadent dinner of local dishes such as traditional gazpacho & paella alongside more modern fusion dishes; all beautifully crafted by Chef Juan Diego Craywinkel and his team. Highlights included the lobster stew & the delicate Asian crab salad, but we both agreed that the Iberico ham was hands down the most succulent we’d ever tasted.
In short, our late summer sojourn at Gecko was a slice of heavenly relaxation- with every detail perfectly catered for and wrapped up in the caress of 26 degree sunshine. Needless to say, I’ve already planned how we can trade in next October in London to move here permanently for the Autumn season…!
The hotel
The rooms
Dining
The Best Bit
If you’re after a real respite away from the crowds and desperate to grab some vitamin D in the late Summer sun, Gecko is undoubtedly the place for you. Whilst famous for its fantastic yoga retreat (with several opportunities a day to relax or power up in classes) the hotel caters to everyone’s passions. From relaxing massages in the outdoor spa, to adrenaline-charged water sports & boat trips on the Mediterranean sea, or simply enjoying the beautiful beach and magical pink sky sunsets. Gecko has it all, with views that were simply magical.
Don't Miss
Super chic shopping in the hotel’s private boutique where handpicked pretty charm jewellery sits alongside a delightful capsule edit of glamorous beachwear, and the latest best picks from dreamy Parisian label Mes Demoiselles.
While You're There
Definitely pop into the local town Sant Francesc for Instagram-worthy restaurants. Indulge in the yummiest tapas ever at the wonderful outdoor Bona Espina, surrounded by cactus. Whilst there, watch the stars through the camo canopy whilst sipping cocktails and don’t forget to pick up a Fashion blogger must-have oversize straw bag at one of the many shops and boutiques.
The Need To Know:
Click here to visit the website
Address: Playa de Migjorn, Ca Mari 07860, Formentera, Islas Baleares, España
Rooms: 30
Restaurant? Yes
Pool? Yes
Spa? Yes
Gym? No
Rates: From €235 per room per night, based on two sharing on a B&B basis