Nativo Hotel Ibiza: eco-boutique hotel with wabi-sabi tranquility above Santa Eulalia
Where Ibiza is often called laidback luxury revolving around the beach, the owners of Native Hotel Ibiza for another option: understated, sustainable and, above all, a very (remarkably) good price-quality ratio. This boutique hotel is located in Siesta, a wooded coastal neighborhood just outside Santa Eulalia des Riu on the east coast of the island. And that is, quite simply, one of the nicest bases on the island.
The hotel features 99 rooms and suites, designed according to the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy: beauty found in the everyday, in imperfection and authenticity. Okay, that’s good. In practice, this means light, airy spaces in soft, earthy tones, with natural and artisanal materials, stone walls, and a touch of retro glamour. The toiletries are from the Sicilian brand Ortigia – a huge favorite here at Barts Boekje. 10 points. Nativo is part of NCalma Hotels, the same group behind the nearby Aguas de Ibiza, also a tip.
The showpiece of the hotel is the rooftop terrace with adults only pool, Restaurant and bar. On the east coast, you can catch the golden morning and evening light over the Mediterranean Sea here, and on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 8:30, there is free yoga for guests who sign up in advance. Adults-only on the roof, but otherwise the hotel is remarkably kid-friendly: thanks to those nice spacious rooms, due to the aforementioned excellent value for money (we don't want to call the hotel 'budget', but by Ibiza standards it actually is) and because of the large number of toys you find in the 'sandbox' near the reception and in and around the pool. The spacious Boheme Suites are particularly well-suited for families, and beneath the pools (there are several, and from a number of rooms you can jump straight in from your bed!) there is a shallow pool that is pleasant for the very little ones. Children of all ages are welcome. Dogs and cats up to 8 kilos are also allowed, for a surcharge and subject to a number of house rules.
There is also plenty to experience culinarily. During the day, the restaurant serves fresh, organic homemade dishes: sharing platters, salads, a poké bowl, burgers, pastas, pizzas, and the permanent Nativo Club Sandwich. In the evening, restaurant Humo is the place to be: the rooftop restaurant is open for the kids then too, and you can enjoy a delicious meal with a sea view.
Nativo is located about 18 kilometers from the airport (you'll be there in no time) and a short distance from Santa Eulalia: the harbor and the center are within walking or cycling distance. The famous Las Dalias hippie market is also nearby. Please note: the hotel is located in a residential area, so a car is handy, and parking can sometimes be a bit tricky. No problem: just mention that you are a hotel guest and the parking lot barrier will open for you almost right at the door.