It might be known more for its meatballs and budget furniture, but IKEA is making waves with its newest venture – and there’s not a flatpack in sight.
The Swedish retailer has opened a hotel in the Canary Islands and rooms are already being snapped up.
Las Dunas de Santa Catalina Boutique House is on Gran Canaria, just a short walk from Alcaravaneras beach.
Offering double or triple rooms with pool or garden views, the modern hotel has a small outdoor pool, sun loungers and a restaurant with a terrace where breakfast is served.
Breakfast is included in the cost of a room, which starts around £114 a night.
It’s a two-star site, so don’t expect anything too luxurious, but the rooms are light and modern with some blue and yellow cushions and bedspreads the only nod to IKEA’s iconic colourful logo.
The hotel features on the Booking.com website where it’s already received strong reviews just weeks after opening.
“The place is newly opened and very well maintained, with a beautiful decor that creates a relaxing atmosphere, and the facilities are very comfortable,” said one guest.
“The staff was very pleasant and attentive at all times and the breakfast was quite good. We would repeat without hesitation. Thank you very much.”
Another said: “I really liked the quietness, you can’t hear any street noise, and the pool area is beautiful.
“They also treated us wonderfully at all times. The cleaning was great and the breakfast was delicious.”
Describing the hotel, Booking.com says: “Las Dunas de Santa Catalina Boutique House in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria offers adults-only rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and parquet floors.
Each room includes a work desk, minibar, and TV.
“Guests can relax on the sun terrace, in the garden, or by the year-round outdoor swimming pool.
“The property features a solarium and outdoor seating area. Free WiFi is available throughout.”
It says the beach is a five minute walk away, with a park, an aquarium and scuba diving available nearby. Gran Canaria Airport is around 25 minutes away by car.
IKEA’s only other hotel is in Sweden, but there are already plans for a second hotel in the Canary Islands.
