LABRANDA Corralejo Village

Formerly the Dunas Caleta Club, this resort was closed and gutted in 2016 to be reborn as a chic, boutique property. In stark contrast to the other heavy, earth-toned resorts in the area, Labranda Corralejo Village is all sleekness and light. The result is a refreshing, trendy take on a beachy Spanish getaway. The lobby, strung up with wireframe pendant lights dangling over long white couches, sets the tone. Everywhere, pillows in geometric prints emphasizes the fashionable look, and blond, slat-wood panels ground the extensive white surfaces. Throughout the hotel, from the two pools to the “Rock Bar” club to the 110 rooms, this design-conscious look prevails, so it may come as a surprise that the property is truly family-friendly. But the extensive amenities oriented toward kids and the boisterous atmosphere overall, gives a rare combination -- a resort that’s both family-oriented and fashionable. Still, even travelers without kids can appreciate that this property delivers on style and boutique intimacy without compromising on its extensive features.

Labranda has an excellent location, a half a block from the main commercial street of Corralejo, which is bursting with shops, restaurants, and bars. A supermarket is a block away, and a Burger King is right on the corner. The small beach of Waikiki is a seven-minute walk away. But the larger sand-dune beaches the area is known for (the Grandes Playas) require a drive of six minutes. The airport is a 38-minute drive away.

Rooms are where the Labranda breaks away from the competition. Many neighboring resorts suffer from dark interiors, dated furnishings, and a tired, Old World style, which makes this resorts 110 rooms a burst of fresh air. The airy white decor, accented with teal details, hits a beachy vibe that’s still stylish. Midcentury-inspired armchairs, streamlined couches, and box-frame coffee tables feel lifted straight out of a chic decorating magazine. Variegated wood headboards stenciled with cheery messages like “Happiness” add to their youthful appeal. Large photo canvases of Fuenteventura adorn the walls.Rooms have identical layouts with small living rooms furnished with sofa beds, separate bedrooms, and bathrooms. All rooms have furnished balconies or terraces that overlook the pool as well. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, safes, mini-fridges, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning (not a given for resorts in this area). Beige-tiled bathrooms are equally modern, with walk-in showers, toiletries, and hairdryers. One more modern touch -- rooms are accessed by keycard (which isn't always the case in other Fuenteventura resorts). Be aware that rooms are not wheelchair accessible. 

For a hotel of its size and “boutique” status, Labranda has a robust list of features. Its two heated pools act as the heart of the resort surrounded by loungers. A small but up-to-date gym is available, with showers that are also open to guests who want to freshen up before check-in or after check-out. Spa access is an additional charge with a sauna plus beauty and massage treatments on offer. Guests also have access to a sandy volleyball court, a tennis court, and a multi-purpose court that’s hung with basketball hoops. Right by this area is a “quiet zone” set with loungers, where guests can escape the louder energy of the pool or the animation. For families, a kids’ club entertains children from 4 to 12. Cribs and high-chairs are also available for free. Older kids, 13 to 18, can hangout in the teens’ club -- a rare amenity for resorts in this area. Other family-friendly perks include a playground, bike rentals, and ping-pong and pool tables.Dining takes place in the resort’s buffet restaurant, which includes show cooking. By the restaurant is a stage with nightly animation shows. The Rock Bar by the restaurant provides entertainment including live music and DJs spinning. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout.