Saved by Gardens and Spa

This ugly building has been exquisitely decorated with Thai artefacts and on one side has a beautifully planted garden with black swans, a heron and a large swimming pool. These areas face South and get the sun. We made the mistake of booking a sea-facing room, forgetting that the sea is on the North side of the hotel, so gets no sun. Our room, an "Ambassador" junior suite was large, but soulless, lacking any warmth; in the cool evenings, even the aircon was unable to introduce any heat. Our sea-facing room overlooked the carpark and the large putting green, which was being mowed most of the time. Then there was the town, of no architectural interest, and, in the middle distance. the sea. A room facing th garden would have been preferable in every way. There are no tea/coffee making facilities in the room. When I asked for a kettle, I was firmly told that this was not available and room service could provide a tea tray for two at 7 euros. When I explained that my wife likes a cup tea on waking, the reply was that room service operates 24 hours a day. We walked into town, purchased a small kettle, mugs, tea and milk, and that was that. The public areas are a different matter. They are comfortable and inviting, helped by very friendly and efficient staff. Breakfast is the usual buffet, with lots of choice including an egg chef. The bar offers evening entertainment of good quality. Drinks come with nice snacks and canapes. We took dinner on our first night in the Oriental Restaurant. It is a pleasant room, but the food and the service are both indifferent. The next day, we had lunch at the poolside restaurant, and it was pretty poor. After that, we discovered some much better restaurants within five minutes walk across the road. We ate in three of them, all totally different - see separate reviews. The Gardens are beautifully planted and a delight to walk round, about an acre including the pool. The Spa is very special indeed, with indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzis and relaxing air beds, all free to guests. We didn't try the treatments, but other guests spoke highly of them. Puerto Sta Cruz has few attractions, but there are some interesting excursions nearby. However, the best reason I can suggest for a visit here is the drive from the north of the island through its spine and past the Observatory and Teide, to the South. Quite stunning!