When I was there in December, I took the chance to capture a few shots “off the beaten track” to give some idea of what this part of the island is really like, once you leave the town itself.

You can walk up from the town centre, basically up the hillside, into an area called San Antonio and then turn right, and you will come across one of the two main barrancos or river beds that run down through the town.  Just across the river, we found a balcony where the flowers had taken over:

Puerto de la Cruz Balcony - Over-watered?

Perhaps the owner had over-watered them..

Just up past a few houses and we come to one of the many little lanes that run through the banana plantations that literally surround the town.  This particular lane is one of several that run parallel to the coast, behind the town, and it makes for a tranquil walk through the bananas, where the only sounds are the birds singing and the leaves of the banana plants rustling in the breeze.

Puerto de la Cruz Bananas

When we were walking here, we met a grizzled old man walking the opposite way, carrying a big bucket of paint.  Now, my Spanish is not that good, but his English was non-existent, but he was determined to get his message across.  After literally 10 minutes, we came to understand that he had a lovely renovated house to sell, right here amongst the bananas where it was so peaceful and quiet, and by the look of us it would be just what we wanted!  Well, I have to admit I was tempted to take a look, but we would have been wasting his time and I could not face much more of the barrage of Spanish dialogue that was being thrown upon us.  So we said our goodbyes and on we went.

After about 20 minutes, we came to another of the radial roads that run up the hill from the town, but by now we were well to the left (south west) of the town, above the Loro Parque and the little rocky outpost of rough old houses known as Punta Brava.  Being so high up still, we had a great vantage point to get a rare panorama of Puerto de la Cruz from the south west looking north east, as these next two shots show.

Notice how the hillside is green and look at the ancient terracing:

Puerto de la Cruz Terracing

In this final shot you can see the town itself, although most of it is hidden, down on the flat land at the base of the great hillside that rises steeply from the back of the resort.  Only the tallest of buildings in the flatter main part of the town are visible, the beige and white tower on the left being by far the highest building in Puerto de la Cruz (the infamous Bel Air apartment block – built decades ago and probably never to be repeated):

Puerto de la Cruz from the South-West

Well that’s it for now, but watch this space for more information and pictures from the beautiful resort of Puerto de la Cruz.  Meanwhile, if you’re itching to go there (as I am) then take a look at our great hotel deals here: Puerto de la Cruz Hotels.

Puerto de la Cruz is, for the British, one of the less well-known resorts of Tenerife, but those who discover this charming town are often converted and return year after year.

Most Brits head for the popular resorts along the south coast of the island, such as Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas, but to miss out on the very special town of Puerto de la Cruz in the north would be a real shame, as we will find out..

This is the first article in a series on Puerto de la Cruz, and in it I want to give you a quick overview.

Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, 16 December 2009

The first and most obvious contrast between Puerto de la Cruz and the traditional Brit resorts of the south is the beautiful scenery studded with palms and exotic flowers wherever you look.  The south is barren, brown and dry, apart from in the carefully-tended hotel grounds, whereas here in the north of the island, everything is lush, green and very pretty.  As you drive from the airport in the south, heading further north, on the approach to Santa Cruz you suddenly notice that the hills are greener, the countryside covered in trees and flowering shrubs.

The next contrast between the resorts in the south and Puerto de la Cruz is the mix of holidaymakers.  In Los Cristianos, most holidaymakers are British,  whereas in the north, most are German, with a strong contingent from mainland Spain and a smattering from other northern European countries, including the UK.  So, you certainly don’t get the beer-swilling Brit brigade here.  It’s more..  sedate, cultured and classy.  That’s not to say that the tourist

Puerto de la Cruz Street

industry here is in any way unwelcoming to the British.  The hotels, restaurants and bars are staffed with people who seem to be able to talk just about every language necessary including British, so you there are no worries on that font.  Personally, I find it very pleasant and somehow exotic to be in a cafe or bar surrounded by Spanish and German customers – it adds to the feeling of being on holiday for me.

Finally in this overview, the other big contrast between Puerto de la Cruz and, say, Los Cristianos is the coast.  In the north around Puerto, the coast is rocky and has fewer beaches.  What beaches there are have black sand, compared to the golden sand of Los Cristianos in the south.  In Puerto de la Cruz itself, there are a couple of black sand beaches, but the sea is often too rough for swimming, so a massive series of lakes and swimming pools was built along the main promenade in the “new” town – known as Lagos Martianez.  Acres of terraces, plants, trees, cafes, bars and about seven

Lagos Martianez Tenerife, 15 December 2009

pools of varying shapes and sizes and some of them massive.  It’s the main reason why many people choose to come here, and a good number spend most of their days in this superb complex of pools and gardens, open to the public from 10am every day with a great value entry fee of about 3.5 euros.

In this overview we have just scratched the surface, and you will find plenty of more detailed information here at http://suntrapholidays.co.uk.
Meanwhile, to check availability on some of the great Puerto de la Cruz hotels, take a look at this link: Puerto de la Cruz hotels

Come with me as we take a look at what makes this place so very special:

Maspalomas Confusion

Beach Maspalomas Gran Canaria, courtesy of wikimedia user: Pepelopex

Before we start, it’s worth mentioning that quite a lot of people stay in Playa del Ingles, the busy, lively resort on the other side of the sand dunes to Maspalomas, but “think” they stayed in Maspalomas.  I have seen loads of holiday reviews under the heading of Maspalomas, where reviewers have even stated that they stayed in Maspalomas, when they were actually staying in one of the many hotels in Playa del Ingles. It’s not the same resort – in fact there are three kilometres of sand dunes between them.  Playa del Ingles is buzzing and lively, whereas Maspalomas – the subject of this article – is much more tranquil, scenic and relaxing..

Maspalomas Bungalows

Careful planning means that there are no high-rise buildings here, and you will notice that many of the accommodations are described as “bungalows” and really are little self-contained low-rise houses, usually about 50 or

Maspalomas Bungalows Campo Golf

so to a complex, and often arranged amongst gardens around a central swimming pool well away from the road.

The low-rise buildings mean that the dramatic backdrop of the mountains of central Gran Canaria is often visible, and this sets the tone for the whole resort – scenic, unspoilt, quiet.  There are shops and restaurants here, but they are mostly restricted to purpose-built commercial centres – hubs of entertainment that really come to life in the evenings, but where night-life is self-contained and kept well away from where you are sleeping.

Maspalomas Dunes and Beach

Sand Dunes Maspalomas Gran Canaria

The beach in Maspalomas is a stunner.  Miles of golden sand backed by those atmospheric dunes where you can lose yourself on a sunny wander amongst the trees and bushes with only the pretty little birds for company, or find a little hill to sit on and gaze across the “desert” with the folds of the craggy mountains on one side and the shimmering blue sea on the other.  In the central part of the long beach you will find the Maspalomas naturist beach; it’s a very relaxed place with adults and kids of all ages, so even if you’ve never had an all-over tan before it’s a great place to start.  Look – nobody knows you here, so go for it!

Maspalomas Golf Course (Campo Golf Maspalomas)

Campo Golf Maspalomas Gran Canaria, courtesy of Flickr.com user: jorgecorrea

Maspalomas is a perfect location for golf holidays to Gran Canaria, because the famous golf course, or Campo de Golf, is within easy walking distance of most bungalows and hotels.  This 18-hole, par 73 course is next to the famous dunes and set amongst palm trees with those stunning mountains for a backdrop.  A practice green, driving range, equipment hire, and somewhere to eat and drink afterwards – it’s all on offer here.

Aqualand Maspalomas

For kids aged one to 101, the Aqualand Maspalomas water park with its 30-odd slides is a great Maspalomas excursion.  Well, not really an excursion – it’s just a couple of miles north-west of the centre of Maspalomas and well-signposted.  A taxi to the water park from Maspalomas won’t break the bank, or you can take bus number 70 from the Faro de Maspalomas (the lighthouse).

Aqualand is such a good water park that you can easily spend the day here.  Why not race your friends down the parallel slides of the “Kamikaze”, or maybe bounce off the neck-wrenching turns of the “Adrenalina”.  My favourite is actually “Mamut” – the biggest slide of the lot, where you bounce along and over several heart-stopping drops in a four-man rubber raft.  After all the excitement you can take it easy for a while and have a gentle cruise along the “Congo River” and maybe catch a few waves on the man-made “surf beach”.  Take a look for yourself by clicking the link: Aqualand Maspalomas.

Meloneras, Gran Canaria

Meloneras is the name given to what is really a small area of Maspalomas, by the lighthouse at the far right of the beach as you face the sea.  In recent years it has developed into a sophisticated little village with stylish hotels, shops and restaurants.  Meloneras is the missing piece of the jigsaw for Maspalomas.  Now you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of unspoilt Maspalomas with its bungalow complexes, but take a walk or a very short taxi ride from your bungalow when you want some designer shops, a great choice of bars and restaurants, and a bit of life at night.  Not that there is 24/7 partying here – not at all.  For that, you need to go to the neighbouring resort of Playa del Ingles.  Meloneras is more classy and stylish, its whole ethos aimed towards providing a more up-market experience for the customers of the five star hotels that have recently sprung up here.  In fact, if you see web pages listing five star hotels in Maspalomas, they will almost always be hotels in Meloneras.  So, if you prefer five star hotels in Gran Canaria to self-catering bungalows, Meloneras is the place to look for accommodation.

Well, that’s the end of this Suntrap Holidays Guide to Maspalomas.  Thanks for reading, and if you would like to check availability and current offers on holidays and hotels in Maspalomas, you can use the quick search box on the top right..

Suntrap Holidays Rating: 9.5/10 BOOK THIS HOTEL

This amazing five star hotel in Tenerife is the realisation of a unique concept amongst Golf del Sur hotels, a combination of environmental sympathy and pure luxury.

if you want to know what that really means in terms of what it’s like to stay here, this series of four articles by Suntrap Holidays will show you the way. In case you came here first, here are links to the other three articles in this series:

Part 1: Sentido San Blas Reserva Ambiental – Location and Outdoor Areas
Part 2: Sentido San Blas Reserva Ambiental – Bedrooms
Part 3: Sentido San Blas Reserva Ambiental – Food and Drink

Before we go any further, here is a quick summary of the facilities at the Sentido San Blas Reserva Ambiental Hotel, Golf del Sur, San Miguel de Abona:

And now, come with me and explore the public spaces within this very special Golf del Sur hotel..

The poolside ambience is second to none here.  Never again will you want to return to one of those towels-on-the-sunbeds places.  Here, an expanse of terracing is equipped with luxury designer furniture set in stylish landscaping punctuated by contemporary architecture:

Golf del Sur Hotels San Blas Reserva Ambiental Pools

Your stay begins with a warm welcome in the contemporary reception hall:

Reception

Then perhaps a cocktail at the bar will get you into the holiday mood:

San Miguel de Abona Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Bar

Later, you can work off those calories with a little exercise.  Anyone for tennis?

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Tennis Court

.. or perhaps even volleyball by the sea:

San Blas Reserva Ambiental Volleyball

If the heat of the sun gets a little too much, you can always move indoors and do a circuit of the gym – the likes of which you will not find in many Golf del Sur hotels:

Sentido San Blas Reserva Ambiental Gym

After all that exersion, you deserve a little pampering in the relaxation suite.  Perhaps a visit to the sauna:

Golf del Sur Hotel San Blas Reserva Ambiental Sauna

.. or maybe a soothing massage is more your style:

Hotels in Golf del Sur - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Spa

Then, fully refreshed, you will be ready to enjoy a stylish evening at the hotel after dark:

Sentido San Blas Reserva Ambiental Night

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Floodlit

Well that just about wraps up our series on this very special hotel. Certainly not a place for that cheap and cheerful break, but on the other hand the Sentido San Blas Reserva Ambiental has some amazing offers at the moment and surprisingly you can often stay here for very little extra compared to the other top Golf del Sur hotels. Paying that little extra to stay in the absolute lap of luxury – well, all I can say is take full advantage of the current prices while you can get them.

You can check live pricing and availability here:

Golf del Sur hotels, San Blas Reserva Ambiental Hotel.

Don’t miss the current offers!

Back to Part 3 of this series

Photos with kind thanks to http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

Suntrap Holidays Rating: 9.5/10 BOOK THIS HOTEL

This is part three of our series on the San Blas Reserva Ambiental, a truly outstanding five star hotel in Tenerife and the jewel in the crown of Golf del Sur hotels.

In part one we looked at the amazing swimming pools and location, then went on to showcase the luxury bedroom suites in part two. Here in part three, come with us and you’ll see what a fantastic dining experience is in store for you here.

First, a summary of the hotel and room facilities:

Now for some great pictures – really get a feel for what it will be like to sample the tempting culinary delights in the hotel’s restaurants or enjoy a drink in the bar:

In the evening, a dinner buffet is on offer if you stay here on a half-board basis. This really is five-star dining and you simply won’t find better in any of the other Golf del Sur hotels.

LA CUEVA DE ATXONA RESTAURANTE BUFFET

This is the space you will visit for breakfast, included in the price, with its sumptuous range of hot and cold dishes You can even put some sparkle into the start of your day with a glass of Cava.

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental La Cueva	San Blas Reserva Ambiental Buffet	Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Seafood
San Miguel Hotels, San Blas Reserva Ambiental Salmon	Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Dining	San Blas Reserva Ambiental Bar

LA PROA RESTAURANT “Top for food out of all Golf del Sur hotels”

Surrounded by water, La Proa is a very special five-star hotel restaurant, not just because of the food bit also because of its inspired design and location.

San Blas Reserva Ambiental La Proa Restaurant	Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Service	San Miguel Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Tapas
San Blas Reserva Ambiental Outdoor Dining	Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Great Food	San Blas Reserva Ambiental La Proa

In our next article in this series on the San Blas Reserva Ambiental, we’ll take a look at some of the activities you can enjoy in and around the hotel.

Meanwhile, to check availability and book at the keenest prices, you can click this link: Golf del Sur hotels, San Blas Reserva Ambiental Hotel.

Go to Part 4 of this series.

Back to Part 2 of this series.

Photos with kind thanks to http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS, ZurcodraciR, marierose and tirsomaldonado.

Suntrap Holidays Rating: 9.5/10 BOOK THIS HOTEL

Opened in 2008, this totally unique five star hotel in Tenerife is set on its own nature reserve next to the sea – and it’s currently setting the standard for Golf del Sur hotels..

If you have already taken a look at part one in this series, you will have a feel for what the San Blas Reserva Ambiental can offer. Here in part two, first we have some quick facts about the hotel, and then some fantastic pictures so you can really get inside those rooms and feel what it’s like to stay here:

Most Luxurious Bedrooms of Any Golf del Sur Hotels?

Come with me as we take a tour of the fantastic rooms in this amazing five star hotel.  First of all just take a look at those beds.  Each room and suite has two massive beds like these and doesn’t it just make you want to jump on board, close your eyes and forget about the world for a while:

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental luxury beds, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

And here’s a shot of another room, slightly different as they all are, and this time looking towards the sumptuous bathroom.  Notice the glass walls around the bath area – this can be transformed into a more private space by sliding discreet wooden screens into place, yet when they are open the glass makes for a very contemporary feel.

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Glass Bathroom, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

The next shot shows the fantastic bathroom in more detail.  A spacious tub, separate loo and also a separate shower room, so rare even for luxury hotels.  No expense has been spared here, with designer fixtures all round – just look at that funky basin:

Hotels in Golf del Sur - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Luxury Bathroom, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

Swinging the camera round gives you a great view of the lounge area, with its comfy sofa, mood lighting and exquisite mural:

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Lounge,courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

Here’s another room and another great colour scheme.  This time we’re looking out from the bathroom to give you an idea of the sheer space.  The glass bathroom walls enhance the spacious feel – but remember you can always draw the wooden screens across when you take a bath:

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental From the Bathroom, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

And here’s another view from that bathroom, looking towards the dressing table/desk area with its comfortable yet contemporary chair:

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Bedroom, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

These amazing rooms really have to be the best you will find in any Golf del Sur hotels, and in this final shot you can see the desk/dressing table in more detail, with its 32-inch flat-screen TV and complimentary satellite channels.  You will also find a wired high-speed internet point here:

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Desk, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

Well that’s it for our tour of some typical bedrooms of this most special of Golf del Sur hotels.  I hope these great pictures have given you some inspiration and hope for your next holiday in Tenerife.  Look out for part three in this series of articles when we take a look at the hotel’s impressive public spaces..

Meanwhile, you can check availability and get some great prices here: Golf del Sur hotels, San Blas Reserva Ambiental Hotel.

Go to Part 3 of this series.

Back to Part 1 of this series.

Photos with kind thanks to http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS, ZurcodraciR, marierose and tirsomaldonado.

Suntrap Holidays Rating: 9.5/10 BOOK THIS HOTEL

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Pools courtesy: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

Opened in 2008, this totally unique five star hotel is set on its own nature reserve next to the sea – and it’s already a massive hit with discerning travellers.

For example, on Trip Advisor, out of 45 reviewers, 40 rate this hotel above average or excellent, and the a massive 88% would be happy to recommend it to others.  On Expedia, only three

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Floodlit, courtesy: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

people have reviewed the hotel at the time of writing, with it being so new, but the average mark was 94% and they would ALL

be happy to recommend the hotel.  So, it’s clearly very popular compared to some of the other Golf del Sur hotels.

For the first time here at SuntrapHolidays.co.uk we’ve got so much information that you really need to know and so many great photos that we’re split this review across several articles.

Here in part one, we’re going to take a look at the outside of this stunning complex, a real jewel in the crown of Golf del Sur hotels:

Location

The San Blas Reserva Ambiental Hotel sits next to the sea in the mouth of a ravine that forms the hotel’s very own nature reserve.

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Terraces, courtesy: http://www.sanblas.eu/ZurcodraciR

The whole ethos of this magical place is about being in harmony with its natural surroundings.  The design and materials used in the buildings, terraces and gardens reflect this ethos and it all makes for a tranquil, relaxing place that gives the impression of being in tune with nature.

Of course, that ideal can never be fully realised by a 331-bed, luxury hotel that has to meet the needs of demanding five-star hotel guests, but at least here, unlike in other Golf del Sur hotels, there has been a valiant effort to respect Tenerife’s environment and habitat.

You will find the San Blas Reserva Ambiental right by the sea at the eastern end of Golf del Sur, not far from the old fishing village of Los Abrigos.  Strictly speaking, it’s classed as one of the San Miguel de Abona hotels, but most people still refer to the area as Golf del Sur because of the magnificent golf course on the doorstep.

This course, 27 holes set in a stunning green oasis with the sea on one side and mount Teide on the other, is a joy to

Hotels in Golf del Sur - Golf Course, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

behold.  The hotel offers concessionary deals on green fees too, because a good proportion of its customers come with the intention of playing at a couple of rounds.  The official site for the course is here:  Golf del Sur golf course.

Like all of the Golf del Sur hotels and apartment complexes, the San Blas Reserva Ambiental is a very convenient 10 minutes’ drive from the airport, so if you are on a short Tenerife mini-break no time is wasted traversing the island before your little Tenerife holiday can begin.

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Canoeing, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS

Being close to the airport, you will see and hear the planes going overhead, but believe me, it’s not going to be an annoyance because they are far enough away and sufficiently infrequent that it’s not an issue.

Outdoor Facilities

A total of eight pools wind their way through this amazing complex.  For the adults there are two heated pools and three ambient pools, and for the children no less that three dedicated pools.  The landscaping and planting has been carefully considered as you can see from the photos.  You know those cheap white plastic sun beds – the ones that adorn the poolsides of so many Tenerife hotels?  Well you’ll not find any here.  No expense has been spared and the poolside furniture is every bit as high quality as that found inside the hotel.

Fancy a little canoeing?  No problem, there is a navigable sailing lake on-site, surrounded by natural stone and plants

Golf del Sur Hotels - San Blas Reserva Ambiental Panorama, courtesy of: http://www.sanblas.eu/tirsomaldonado

typical of the local area.  As well as canoeing, this pretty lake is also used for sports and games laid on as part of the hotel’s programme of activities.

Well that’s it for the outside.  Enjoy the great pictures and look out for part two in this series of articles about this very special Golf del Sur hotel, when we move indoors..

Meanwhile, you can check availability and get some great prices here:  Golf del Sur hotels, San Blas Reserva Ambiental Hotel.

Go to Part 2 of this series.

Photos with kind thanks to http://www.sanblas.eu/SANBLAS, ZurcodraciR, marierose and tirsomaldonado.

Suntrap Holidays Rating: 9/10

The Sunset View Club apartment complex, with fantastic views over the ocean, has the trees and green fairways of a championship golf course as a perfect backdrop.

Apartments in Tenerife - Sunset View Club Pool

It’s a popular place for sure.  For example, out of 18 customers on TripAdvisor, 16 rated it very good or excellent, and all but two would recommend it to others.  Meanwhile over on Travel Republic, at the time of writing a staggering 96% of customers rated the Sunset View Club four or five out of five – an amazing score and one that owners of other apartments in Tenerife can only dream of.

But what makes this three-star, self-catering accommodation so special that we chose to review it here on Suntrap Holidays?  Let’s take a look at the good – and bad – points:

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is it?

The apartments in Golf del Sur are amongst the most southern of all apartments in Tenerife, but the resort does not look anything like the usual arid countryside of this end of the island because of the famous golf course that envelopes the resort like a giant green oasis.

The Sunset View Club apartments are within easy walking distance of the many shops, bars and restaurants that line the

Tenerife Apartments - Sunset View Club Pool

main promenade of Golf del Sur, a place with a safe, relaxing feel.

Short transfer times are guaranteed because the complex is only 10 minutes from the airport – about 15 euros by taxi.   The people who stay here say that while the planes are clearly visible going in and out, aircraft noise is not loud enough to be a problem, and several people say they quite like watching them!

You can take a look at our resort page for a detailed look at how the resort measures up:  Golf del Sur Facts

Who is it best suited to?

The night-life in Golf del Sur is laid back and low-key, so full-on clubbers will be happier in Playa de las Americas 15 minutes down the coast.  Hotels in the resort tend to be quieter and with less in the way of activity and entertainment programmes than those in the larger resorts such as Los Cristianos.

This means that if you come here with small children you’ll probably all love it, and the same goes for couples and singles whose disco days are getting sparse.  If you have older children or you come here as one half of a young couple you may find that it is just too quiet here compared to other

Tenerife Apartments - Sunset View Club Room

apartments in Tenerife.  That is, unless you are into golf or the great outdoors, because there are some great walks on the doorstep and Tenerife’s surfing capital is round the corner in El Medano.

How does the accommodation compare to the usual standard for apartments in Tenerife?

These one-bedroom apartments are described by people who stayed there with words like “clean”, “comfortable” and “spacious”.  The bedroom has twin beds and there is also a sofa-bed in the living room.  Most apartments have a sea view and whereas the upper floors have large balconies, the lower floors have a patio and a little walled garden that leads straight out onto the pool area.

They’re well-equipped too.  For a start, you can watch your favourite soaps because the satellite TV in the rooms has a good range of UK channels (but please tell me you’re NOT going to sit there all week watching Coronation Street or I’ll have to kill you).  There’s also a phone and a safe (for a small charge) – and get this – there’s a DVD player, not something you see in many Tenerife apartments, so bring along a few of your DVDs, they don’t weight much.

There is a of course a bathroom with a bath/shower, and the each kitchen has a fridge, microwave, kettle, hob, coffee

Tenerife Apartments - Sunset View Club Living

maker and a good range of utensils.  There is talk of a toastie maker being seen in some of the apartments but don’t hold me to that because I don’t think they all have one.

Now, did you know there’s one thing that always gets a mention in reviews if it’s not provided or if you have to hire one?  Yes, you guessed it, I am talking about that most sought-after of appliances – the hair-dryer.  No worries here, because at the Sunset View Club apartments a hair-dryer is provided free of charge.  Yay!!

What about food and drink?

In common with most apartments in Tenerife, board basis here is self-catering, but you’re not going to go hungry.  For a start, there’s a snack bar on site, and then there is the Tasca Maco restaurant, offering a great range of international and Canarian dishes.  Takeaway meals are available from the restaurant too, so you can go and eat them on your balcony in the evening sun, you little devil.

Of course, there are also many places to eat nearby.  Literally across the road you will find a large square with several bars and restaurants, and you can walk to the resort centre within minutes for an even wider choice.

Apartments in Tenerife - Sunset View Club Dining

For your self-catering needs, there is a Netto mini market just across from the apartments where you can buy reasonably-priced wine, beer and other essentials (are they any?).

What’s outside?

The grounds of the complex are clean and well-maintained.  You’ll find a good-sized pool with plenty of sun beds and umbrellas.  There is also a children’s pool, and – I don’t belieeeeeeve it – a huge outdoor whirlpool hot tub that would make even Victor Meldrew smile!

You won’t find many apartments in Tenerife so close to such a great golf course, (check out the Golf del Sur official golf course website).  To guarantee your place, book before you arrive, but there’s not usually any problem and if you book at reception you’ll get specially-negotiated discounted green fees.

The beautiful natural beach of La Tejita one way, and busier Los Cristianos the other way, are both about 10 minutes away by car and there is a frequent bus service.

Are the staff friendly?

The reception staff here are said to be extremely helpful and friendly, which is always a joy to report as it is something that unfortunately you don’t always find in all apartments in Tenerife or anywhere else for that matter.

Steph in the restaurant also deserves a special mention for her outstanding service, as does the chef, who often takes time to come and chat to diners and explain the menu, even creating special dishes if you fancy something in particular.

John the lifeguard is also very popular with guests who have got to know him over the years; he’s English but speaks fluent Spanish, and is so helpful, a real credit to the place.

Is there Internet access?

Yes, wireless internet access, or WIFI, is available for a small charge.

What other facilities are on offer?

Optional services available for a charge include massage and treatment rooms and a launderette with washing and drying facilities.

Verdict

The Sunset View Club is immensely popular and a great place for a quiet, relaxing holiday in an apartment that’s superior to the average standard of apartments in Tenerife.  Here at Suntrap Holidays we rate it 9/10.
You can check availability and the current very competitive prices by clicking this link: Apartments in Tenerife.

Where is Golf del Sur?

Located on the southern-most part of Tenerife, most Golf del Sur hotels are technically in San Miguel de Abona, but the resort itself, being built around the prestigious golf course, tends to be known by the course name of Golf del Sur, which can be confusing.

Golf del Sur - Typical View

The resort is something of a green oasis thanks to the trees and fairways of the massive golf course that it’s built around.  It’s mainly a collection of apartment complexes with the hotels of Golf del Sur dotted amongst them rather then being the dominating feature.

Golf del Sur hotels and apartments are great if you hate long transfer times, because the resort is only about ten minutes’ drive from the airport, so you can start your holiday without delay.  Being so close to the airport, you will see the planes going overhead, but aircraft noise was not an issue for people who have stayed here.  That’s not to say you can’t hear the planes, rather that the noise level is not high enough to disturb you.

Nearby, about ten minutes to the west, is Los Cristianos which is close enough for the odd night out or a day on the lovely beach there, and Playa de las Americas with its bustling scene is a few minutes further down the motorway.

Golf del Sur Hotels - Golf Plaza Spa Resort Hotel

What’s on offer in the area?

Within easy walking distance you will find the centre of the resort with its wide choice of shops, bars and restaurants, many of them serving English dishes as well as local cuisine.  There’s a marina where you can go on organised fishing trips, and a pleasing promenade where you can stop off for a coffee or even a cocktail.

“breathtaking walks”

There are some breathtaking walks along the coast here too – you hardly ever hear this mentioned in Golf del Sur reviews but it really is an excellent base for walking.  The coastal path running west from Golf del Sur to Costa del Silencio is especially scenic.

The coastline here is rocky, and from many parts of the resort you can hear the waves crashing onto the rocks, but there is a special pool right by the sea, set into the rock, where you can bathe safely.  If you want to spend some time on a sandy beach, you can drive east for 10 minutes to the bright lights of Los Cristianos with its lovely beach and

Golf del Sur Hotels - La Tejita Beach by flickr.com user: liferfe

designer shops, or drive west for 10 minutes to reach the natural golden sandy beach of La Tejita – one of Tenerife’s best and definitely the best beach within easy reach of any of the Golf del Sur hotels.

“all-over tan”

La Tejita is a kilometre of golden sand beach and turquoise water, natural and unspoilt, just to the south-west of the enigmatic Montana Roja or red mountain that provides a dramatic backdrop and shelter from the prevailing easterly breeze.  If you turn left when you reach the sea, walking along the beach towards the red mountain, you will see a beach hut, selling drinks and snacks, then you will come to a rocky breakwater running into the sea.  Beyond this outcrop is a little secluded bay about 100 metres long – a pretty naturist beach where you can get rid of those bikini lines once and for all and get a superb all-over tan.  No?  Ah, go on, do it – nobody knows you here!

If you fancy a longer walk, you can scout around the base of the red mountain, still with the sea on your right, and after about a mile you will reach the even longer sandy beach of El Medano.

Near Golf del Sur - Under Montana Roja by flickr.com user: liferfe

“best surfing beach in Tenerife”

El Medano beach is the best surfing beach in Tenerife – a favourite for windsurfing, kite-surfing and, well, just surfing, because El Medano faces south-east and is well-placed to catch the prevailing wind.   The sea is a constant 60 degrees Fahrenheit and surf’s up for 290 days of the year.  On average.  In the resort centre you can hire equipment and clothing, and there is a great crowd of resident surfers who will give advice and get you organised with professional surfing lessons if you need them.

El Medano near Golf del Sur by flickr.com user: liferfe

If you want to see El Medano without the walk around the red mountain, you can drive directly to the resort along the coast road – about 15 minutes from your Golf del Sur hotel or apartment.

Who are the Golf del Sur hotels best suited to?

Golf del Sur is peaceful and relaxing, yet wherever you stay in the resort you will be within walking distance of bars, restaurants and shops.  The whole place has a safe, community feel, like a green enclave in the parched surroundings of southern Tenerife.

“not exactly bangin”

This makes Golf del Sur hotels great for families with younger children, but late teens and young adults may find themselves looking for something to do at night because it’s not exactly “bangin” here.  There you go, I’m trendy I am, know all the terms.  Rock and roll.

“Golf del Sur – best golf course in Tenerife”

Of course, many people come here for the golf course that the resort is built around, and it’s a cracker.  One of the biggest and best golf courses in Tenerife, the 27-hole, par 70 Golf del Sur has wide fairways punctuated by ravines, sand traps and water hazards that make for challenging play.

There are three separate nine-hole courses offering three championship course combinations.   The “North” is 2949

Golf del Sur Hotels - Ocean Boulevard Hotel

metres, the “South” is 2957 metres and “Links” course is 2853 metres.  Each is similarly-rated with two par three, five par four and two par five holes.

“out in the waves”

A word of warning – seriously overshoot the green on the third hole of the “Links” course and you can forget trying to retrieve that ball because it will quite likely have landed with all the other wayward golf balls out in the waves!

Standard green fees at the time of writing are 34 euros for nine holes and 56 euros for 18 holes in summer.  In winter the fees are 50 euros for nine holes and 85 euros for 18 holes.  There are reductions for groups and residents, and many Golf del Sur hotels offer concessionary rates.

For more information, this is the golf course’s official site: GolfdelSur.net

Verdict

Golf del Sur is a great place to stay, whether you choose one of the hotels or an apartment complex.  Relaxing and scenic, with its own championship golf course; Tenerife’s best beaches on the doorstep; awe-inspiring cliff top walks; a friendly little resort centre; and within easy reach of a day out in Los Cristianos or a lively night in Playa de las Americas.  What more could you want?

For some great deals on accommodation in Golf del Sur, just click the link – easy! Golf del Sur hotels and apartments.

Suntrap Holidays Rating: 9/10

The Reveron Apartments is a lovely little complex in a quiet area of the attractive resort of Los Cristianos, near to the beach and resort centre but far enough away for pure relaxation.

Apartments in Tenerife - Reveron Apartments

It’s a very popular place indeed and there are dozens of glowing reviews from guests.  For example, over on TripAdvisor, 86% out of 15 reviewers rated the Reveron Apartments very good or excellent and all but one reviewer would recommend it, which is a level of popularity that other apartments in Tenerife can only dream of.  It’s the same story on Alpharooms, where 15 customers rated it on average an amazing 96%.

But what is it about the Reveron Apartment complex that makes people rave about it so much?  Here at Suntrap Holidays it’s our job to find out, and we have..

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is it?

Located towards the Eastern end of Los Cristianos, the Reveron Apartments are about 800 metres or about 10 minutes’ walk from the centre of Los Cristianos and about the same distance to the beach.

It’s location slightly out of the main hub of the resort means that the apartments are quiet and relaxing.  Having said

Apartments in Tenerife - Reveron Apartments Terrace

that, there are many bars and restaurants very nearby even before you get to the centre of the resort, which is down a gentle slope (not steep enough to be called a hill).

If you want an evening in lively Playa de las Americas, it’s about five euros for a taxi from here.

Being in Los Cristianos, the Reveron is just a short hop from the airport so your transfer time will be about 20 minutes in a taxi or a bit longer if you are on a coach.

Who is it best suited to?

The Reveron Apartments are great for couples and singles of all ages who are looking for a relaxing holiday in a quieter area of town.  If you are into night-life and pubs, you may find it too quiet in this part of Los Cristianos.

I don’t recommend the place for families with small children because there is no children’s’ pool or anything much for the kids, it’s not that kind of place.  I honestly think you would be better off choosing other apartments in Tenerife if you have small children – read our reviews of  other Tenerife apartments or use the search box on the right.

The slight slope down to the harbour and beach may be too much for people with walking disabilities, but you can always get a taxi on the way back for about four euros.

What about food and drink?

There is a restaurant called Little Italy that’s actually next door to the complex where you eat if you are on a BB or half-board basis, and you can also buy meals here if you are self-catering.  Having said that, you can find a huge choice of great places to eat within easy walking distance, and if I’m honest I would prefer self-catering or B&B here as the half-board evening menu on offer at Little Italy is not the full restaurant menu.

How do the rooms compare to the usual standard for apartments in Tenerife?

Tenerife Apartments - Apartamentos Reveron Living

Immaculately clean, well-maintained and spacious are some words that customers have used to describe these apartments.  Each has twin beds, living area, private bathroom and a kitchenette with hob, microwave and fridge.  There is also a TV, phone and room safe for a small charge.

There are two types of accommodation here – studios and one-bed apartments.  The apartments are larger and all have a balcony, whereas the studios are smaller and only some of them have a terrace, others have no balcony or terrace.  So, if you want a balcony it’s better to pay a little more and have an apartment, where you are guaranteed one.  The other option is to go for one of the cheaper studios and request one with a terrace when you book, but it’s not guaranteed.

What’s outside?

When it comes to the swimming pool, it’s not so much “what’s outside?” but “what’s that on the roof?” – because that’s where the pool is – quite unusual for apartments in Tenerife, having a pool on the roof!  As you can see from the picture, being on the roof means that whilst relaxing in or around the pool you get stunning panoramic views right

Reveron Apartments, Tenerife - Pool

down to the harbour and across the ocean in one direction, and up into the mountains in the other.

If the main pool area gets busy, there is a second sun terrace also with sun beds that’s usually quieter.

A slight drawback of the rooftop location is that there is no room up here for a pool bar.  There is also no children’s’ pool, which is one reason why I don’t recommend the place for families.

Are the staff friendly?

The staff here are described as friendly, lovely and helpful.  They have been observed welcoming guests who have been before – there can’t be many apartments in Tenerife where that happens!  The cleaning staff here are said to be especially vigilant and vigorous in their scrubbing, keeping everything immaculate.

Is there Internet access?

There is a terminal with a pretty fast connection by all accounts, on a pay-as-you-go basis costing one euro for 10 minutes at the time of writing.

What other facilities are on offer?

There is a fitness centre and gym and judging by the reviews it is better than what you will find at many Tenerife apartment complexes.  That’s if you get one at all of course.

There’s also a sizeable lounge with satellite TV, and you can use the table tennis and snooker table for a small fee.  Oh, and Jocky, there’s a darts board too, just the place for that photo of the mother-in-law.

Verdict

This complex is in my opinion far superior to the average standard of apartment in Tenerife.  Clean, quiet and with fabulous views of Los Cristianos from the unusual rooftop pool, I give it an impressive 9/10.

You can take a look at availability and book at a great price by clicking this link: Apartments in Tenerife.