Hotel San Roque

Reviewed by Laura Dibben


SENSE OF SERENITY..............

In the quaint village of Garachico, at a stone’s throw from the deep blue waters of the Atlantic and the natural volcanic rock pools of Tenerife’s north-west coast, nestles the elegant Hotel San Roque. Originally built for the Genoan aristocrat Cristobal de Ponte (founder of Garachico in 1497), time had taken its toll on this 18th Century manor house, leaving it in a state of great disrepair. In 1990, the Carayon family entered this historical monument for the first time only to be immediately enveloped by a sublime sense of serenity; they knew instantly it was to be theirs. Two years later they embarked on what they refer to as “the greatest adventure of their lives”, and following some four years of meticulous restoration, fuelled by a passion for art, history and tradition, the Hotel San Roque was born. Little did they know the fruits of their labour would become Tenerife’s premier boutique hotel!

Entering into this splendid and unique treasure is like stepping into another world where time stands still. An aura of peace and tranquillity pulls you in, and before you know it you have left all your worries at the door. A harmonious balance of avant-garde design and tradition is evident at first glimpse of the patio courtyard, where a modern steel sculpture somehow blends in seamlessly with the centuries old wooden galleries and columns that surround. From furnishings to art work, many original pieces by renowned contemporary artists can be appreciated throughout the Hotel. A second patio courtyard houses an inviting (heated) swimming pool and the ever necessary sun loungers for soaking up that glorious sunshine. Take in the splendid panoramas from the roof terrace, or partake in convivial conversation in the salon, where a selection of quality liqueurs can be enjoyed from the Hoffmann Bar.

The avant-garde, Bauhaus-inspired décor continues through to the bedrooms, of which there are 20 in total. Arranged around each of the patio courtyards, the rooms comprise of 9 Doubles, 7 Duplex Doubles, 2 Junior Suites, 1 Duplex Suite and one impressive 3-storey “Tower Suite” with a sea-facing roof terrace – a favourite room amongst the honeymooners! Gleaming hardwood floors, pitched beamed ceilings and walls of Venetian stucco painted in rich, bold colours add to the charm and elegance of the Hotel. Rooms are equipped with all the amenities that one would expect to find in a hotel of this calibre: satellite TV, DVD and CD player (DVD and CD library in reception), heating and air-con, well-stocked mini-bar, safe, telephone, Jacuzzi bath, quality toiletries, fluffy bathrobes and slippers, hair dryer and pool towels. I loved the open-plan Jacuzzi in the Junior Suites – very romantic!

Breakfasts are served at your leisure in the main dining room, “Anturium” (open exclusively to guests of the Hotel), which spills out into the poolside patio courtyard. Tapas and some hot options are on offer for lunch (room service also available), with dinner being a more gourmet affair. The best local and organic ingredients are innovatively used in the creation of their daily fixed menu (special requests and dietary needs are catered to with some advance notice) that is prepared caringly under the watchful eye of Chef Pep Nogué. A creative fusion of Canarian and Mediterranean cuisine delights the palette in a refreshing, (year round) outdoor setting.

The friendly staff are at hand to cater to your every whim, without ever being intrusive. Bicycles and fishing equipment are free to borrow, and sailing excursions, horse riding, golf (at 15km), as well as soothing massage treatments and even tickets to the symphony can all be arranged with reception.

An ideal Hotel if you are looking for an exclusive and refined environment in which to “get away from it all”. Honeymooners, winter sun seekers, art lovers and those who appreciate the better things in life, this is the place for you. Like the Carayon family who walked in and felt an inner peace, you will feel the same – I did!!