Hotel Club Sunway Punta Prima

Composed of dozens of bungalow and low-rise apartment blocks scattered over 37 acres of grounds, the Hotel Club Punta Prima feels more like a small village than a hotel. The arrival experience is a little underwhelming since the reception area is dated with mismatched furnishings. However, vast gardens are more impressive, with well-tended lawns, broad palms trees, and bursts of colorful bougainvillea. Footpaths connect the various parts of the complex, which is a little too expansive. The more remote rooms are a bit of a trek to get to from the main building and pool. The clifftop setting does give the place an open and breezy atmosphere with plenty of peace and quiet, and of course some spectacular sea views. Couples make up most of the clientele and the majority come from Italy -- some English-speaking guests have complained of language issues with the staff. 

The complex is situated set back from a long cliff overlooking a wide expanse of sea on the north coast of Formentera. It is set on the outskirts of the popular resort of Es Pujols, and the location feels relatively remote -- it's at least a 10-minute walk downhill into town and to its sandy beach. The views on the way are certainly spectacular though some might find the sheer drops a little vertigo-inducing. Ses Illetas -- named best beach in Europe by TripAdvisor in 2016 -- is around a 15-minute drive, as is the ferry port of La Sabina. There's no airport on Formentera, the island is only accessible via ferry crossing from Ibiza, which takes around an hour.

The 125 rooms range from the rather pokey Standard Doubles (at 100 square feet or nine square meters) up to the relatively spacious One-Bedroom Apartments (at 373 square feet or 35 square meters). Triple and upgraded Double Rooms split the difference. Decor throughout is simple, featuring knotty pine furniture, tiled floors, and textured plaster walls that will look rustic to some and dated to others. All rooms open to furnished balconies or terraces, mostly with garden views, though some are treated to glimpses of the sea. So-called Mountain View rooms are inaccurately named, though these tend to be larger and have exposed beams. 

Air-conditioning comes as standard, as do flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges. Free Wi-Fi is advertised, though coverage can be spotty. Apartments add lounges with sofa beds (and sleep up to four). Bathrooms are old-fashioned and some are poorly maintained, but are generally clean and have walk-in showers, hairdryers, and basic toiletries.

Since Hotel Club Punta Prima is  set away from most of the resort's restaurants, thankfully dining is a strength. Half-board rates are standard, and cover a buffet breakfast and dinner -- both offering a good selection of quality food (with a leaning towards Italian cooking), which can be enjoyed alfresco. Packed lunches are also included, but these are basic and unappetizing. The hotel's saltwater, overflow-style pool is a relaxing spot with plenty of loungers and superb sea views, plus there's a separate splash pool for kids (though little else for the little ones). A spacious wood deck sun terrace provides more sunbathing space and sea views, and below that is a small man-made beach. Although access to the sea is rocky, there's some excellent snorkeling just off the coast. Sports facilities are limited to a volleyball court.