Peaceful and beautiful surroundings

Just returned from a 9 day stay at this beautiful hotel. The gardens and surrounding views were stunning. We found all the staff very friendly and helpful and a big thank you to Ana on floor 3 who helped make our stay more comfortable by finding a mattress topper as I found the beds a bit firm for me. The facilities in the room were very good and we were thankful for the fridge and kettle.(would have appreciated a more comfortable arm chair however) Bottled water. along with fruit and chocolates were left each day. We enjoyed our visits to the wonderful spa which was peaceful and very relaxing. Breakfasts were very good with plentiful choice , again in beautiful surroundings but sadly had mixed feelings about the birds in the aviary. We however should have researched the half board option more throughly and soon realised there were few options on the menu that didn't have supplements added. Along with the high charges for water, bread and wine meant a substantial increase in our bill. Much of the food especially in the Italian restaurant was far too salty and the meals in general in both restaurants lacked fresh vegetables and variety. Certainly not much option for vegetarians or vegans. We tried the tasting special menu one evening and this was so minimal and pretentious we felt hungry not long after. The restaurants in our opinion were too formal, inflexible and too theatrical which at times made us feel uncomfortable. eventually we gave up and ate out which was a far better option. HB would be ok for a couple of nights but no more. Lunches and drinks by the pool were also expensive and mediocre.( there is a good supermarket next to the hotel) Overall a lovely holiday we went on a few trips to the Botanical gardens, Puerto de la Cruz and Orotava which made our trip to Tenerife memorable.