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British travel blogger visits world’s first IKEA hotel in Gran Canaria and shares mixed review of stylish but meatball-free stay

Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria

We all know IKEA as the place you go for flat-pack furniture and meatballs — but what happens when the Swedish brand steps into the hotel world? Well, British travel content creator Dave, known on TikTok as @mrtravelon, decided to find out for himself by booking a stay at the world’s first IKEA hotel.

And let’s just say… he had thoughts.

A Stay in IKEA Paradise — Almost

Located in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, the newly opened Las Dunas de Santa Catalina Boutique House welcomed its first guests in early June.

This 27-room adults-only hotel promises stylish interiors, poolside lounging, and a peaceful escape just a short walk from Alcaravaneras Beach.

Dave visited on June 28 and took his 174,000 TikTok followers on a guided tour, showing off everything from IKEA rugs to those classic light fixtures you probably have at home.

He was instantly wowed by the decor, describing the entire place as “just amazing.”

Like Stepping Into a Real-Life IKEA Showroom

What stood out the most to Dave was how every corner of the hotel looked like it came straight out of an IKEA catalogue.

From the double bed to the desk, the lighting to the towels — every detail screamed IKEA (in a good way).

His room even featured a private terrace overlooking the pool, a walk-in shower, a Krups coffee machine, and a big fluffy throw blanket — all part of the brand’s signature functional comfort.

“That’s madness,” he said, clearly impressed.

Breakfast the IKEA Way — But No Meatballs?

Dave followed up with a second video focused on breakfast, which was served on — you guessed it — IKEA plates with IKEA cutlery.

He raved about the continental spread, which included cold meats, cheeses, and a vibrant fruit bowl with dragon fruit, berries, and more.

“This has to be one of the healthiest breakfasts I’ve ever had,” he said, adding that enjoying it poolside was the cherry on top.

But despite all the love, he did call out one glaring omission: the iconic Swedish meatballs.

“There’s only one thing missing,” he joked. “Meatballs, gravy, and hotdogs.

If they put that on the menu — I’d be right in there.”

Fans React with Laughter and Amazement

TikTok followers were both charmed and amused by Dave’s hotel experience.

Comments poured in, with people saying things like “Looks amazing” and “Wow!!!” One viewer joked, “Did you have to assemble the room before staying?” Another chimed in, “Bet the bed came flat-packed with no instructions!”

A Novel Idea That’s Winning People Over

The hotel, managed by Sarton Canarias, offers rooms starting at around £114 per night including breakfast.

It may only be a two-star property, but it’s clear the IKEA charm is working its magic — even if it left guests (like Dave) a little hungry for meatballs.