Fashion’s On Vacation author Emma Edwards shows us some of the best hotels in the Canary Islands for a winter break.
January through March/April have got to be the dullest months of the year in Europe, which, yes, for our distinctly average work-a-day lives, this sucks. But, its a brilliant opportunity to take a week or two out for some Winter sun, as a pick me up from the crisp chills of the aforementioned ‘months of doom’.
The Canary Islands benefit from year round warm temperatures, and are the perfect spot for Winter vacays. Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are the main four to visit, and here we show you some of the best luxury hotels. Winter holidays are all the more exciting, especially as its more than likely freezing at home, so you’re the envy of everyone you know!
Fuerteventura
1. Elba Carlota Hotel 5*
This hotel is located in the Fuerteventura Golf Resort, and is only a short walk away from a range of bars, restaurants and shops, as well as fine sandy beaches. The hotel offers three dining options, including its very own Chiringuito restaurant, which sits on its own island across from the hotel, and serves up sumptuous seafood dishes.
2. Sheraton Fuerteventura Beach Golf and Spa Resort 5*
I really do struggle to find fault with Sheraton resorts, and this is another winner. Benefiting from the luxurious atmosphere of a golf and spa resort, this has the best of both worlds. The resort centre is close by, while the ground of the hotel are secluded enough to enjoy plenty of peace and quiet. It has four restaurants, a lounge bar, pool bar, and a piano bar, all ideal for sipping Mojitos. Chin chin!
TENERIFE
3. Hotel Botanico 5* – Puerto de la Cruz
This hotel is one I have always wanted to visit. It has its own private gardens, which is home to the Oriental Spa Garden, which offers total relaxation. The suites offer breathtaking views of the island’s Mount Tiede volcano and surrounding area, and, if you’re feeling really flush, some have hot tubs on the balcony. There is also four mouth watering a la carte restaurants, including Asian (my favourite), authentic local Spanish, and Italian cuisines.
4. Sensatori Resort Tenerife 5* – Guia de Isora
This beautiful resort hotel boasts a world class spa, countless fine dining options, and the option to upgrade to be a ‘Red Level’ guest. This gets you your access to the fast track reception, separate dining area, exclusive pool and an entire floor on the hotel for Red Level guests. Who do I make my cheque out to?!
5. Dream Gran Tacande 5* – Costa Adeje
Another grand property designed in the style of a Canarian mansion, the Dream Gran Tacande overlooks the beautiful Playa del Duque beach, and has its own on site spa, two outdoor pools, a piano bar, a sun terrace, and authentic Mediterranean a la carte cuisine. The resort of Costa Adeje is the perfect base to explore the island too. Take a trip to the famous Siam Park waterslides or visit the local markets.
Gran Canaria
6. Sheraton Salobre Golf Resort 5*
This glamourous spa hotel is nestled among spectacular views of the dunes of Maspalomas, and the on site Aloe Spa is the perfect location for complete relaxation away from your day to day life. The intriguing architectural design boasts several pools on various levels, as well as a gym with on site views of the landscapes. A variety of cuisines is available in the four a la carte restaurants, too.
7. Lopesan Baobab Resort 5*
This unique resort features an enchanting design inspired by the neighbouring continent of Africa, and is ideally located to explore what the South of the island has to offer. The hotel has a ‘cave zone’ with its own bar and African themed surroundings, and one of the on site restaurants, Akara, is the only African dining available on the entire island! This is definitely one of my favourite hotels in the Canaries. Its going straight on my wishlist!
Lanzarote
8. Hesperia Puerto Calero 5*
I visited this hotel in 2010, and I absolutely adored it. The white buildings, large pools, spa, amazing al fresco breakfast, and luxurious location are just perfect for a winter getaway. The area of Puerto Calero is gorgeous – just a few minutes walk from the hotel is the small marina, which offers delectable restaurants and bars, as well as a range of elite shops, like Ralph Lauren and Lacoste.
9. Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort 5*
This resort is located in the vibrant Playa Blanca, overlooking the beach, and features traditional Canarian style and elegance. With 8 international restaurants on site, a spa, outdoor whirlpools, tennis courts, volleyball, and Turkish steam baths, this really is everything you need for a completely relaxed break. I really love having a suite in hotels, especially if one of you snores, or if you fancy relaxing in your own space for a while away from the other hotel guests. Its just a bit more like home!
