As good as ever

We love this hotel. It may be old fashioned for some tastes, but its values and ethos make it special, which is why it attracts a lot of repeat business from people who can afford to stay anywhere. This was our third 10-day stay at the Hotel Botanico and it was every bit as good as before. The staff remain as good as you could hope for: warm, courteous, efficient and immaculately groomed – from the gardeners to the concierge staff, the room service staff, restaurant staff, bar staff, reception staff, PR staff and management. Every one is professional and particular because at this hotel attention to detail matters and, for us, makes a world of difference. For example, every room and stairway is spotless, the plants and flowers that add colour everywhere are fresh and beautifully maintained and the acres of gardens which surround the complex are immaculately kept and stunning to walk through. For us, it’s all about the understated elegance; nothing flashy but everything done with style, sophistication and care. It’s just one of those places which make you feel relaxed, comfortable and, most of all, welcome. Take the “star in the Bar” for example; Carlos, a cocktail-mixing magician for whom nothing is too much trouble. Like many of the customer contact staff, he recognised us from our previous visits (one year and two years ago) and even remembered our daughter’s name! It’s small detail like that which makes such a difference. Moreover, if any other hotel offers a better breakfast – in terms of quality and variety of choice – we’d find it hard to believe. Moreover, if you wish, you can eat your breakfast (or lunch) outside in the beautiful gardens. Unusually, the spar facilities are included in the room rate and exercise classes such as Tai Chi, yoga and aqua-robics are provided free of charge. Tennis courts and a putting green are also available as is a free bus to and from Puerto de la Cruz. Nearby the hotel complex are shops, cafes and restaurants while the buses to Santa Cruz stop close by. The only other recommendation we could make would be to choose the right times to stay as the north of Tenerife gets more cloud and rain than the south. That said, the Hotel Botanico remains a brilliant choice whatever the weather. We’ll be going back.