La Posidonia: The Ibizan Spa With Cascading Cliff Pools

The eight pools at La Posidonia spa in Ibiza are filled with seawater and heated to different temperatures. They’re partially shaded by a curved roof supported by mock-classical pillars. You can wallow in the waters or prop yourself up at the edge and gaze down on thatched houses and trees and across to the Mediterranean. And if you think being here is just a lovely bit of downtime, know that the spa has higher ambitions: this is thalassotherapy, in which the saltwater and underwater jets act to relax and invigorate the skin and muscles.

La Posidonia, part of the five-star Hacienda Na Xamena, takes its name from a seagrass that forms undersea meadows off Ibiza and neighbouring Formentera. Its cascading pools are open to guests, and visitors can get a piece of the action by purchasing packages that combine an hour in the pool with pica pica (healthy tapas and a fruit juice), lunch or dinner, plus options such as yoga, massages, manicure and skincare treatments.

The hotel itself was Ibiza’s first with five stars, and has been family-run for 50 years. The stupendous sea views are a big part of the appeal here – most of the 77 rooms overlook the water – but there’s also a gym, several swimming pools, a tennis court and a high-end restaurant, and you can rent bikes to explore the surrounding hills.

La Posidonia is on Ibiza’s north coast, not far from Port de Sant Miquel, with its white sand and water sports. Other parts of North Ibiza are quieter, with secluded coves, walking trails and an alternative vibe. Ibiza Town and the airport are on the other side of the island – but they’re still only 30 minutes’ drive away.