Risco del Gato Suites THe Senses Collection

Upon arrival, as guests approach the low-rise hexagonal hotel building topped with its asymmetric green pyramid, it is clear the VIK Suite Hotel Risco del Gato is a different kind of hotel. Inside, the reception area isn't as unusual as one may expect, but the quirky interiors upstairs deliver upon the expectations set by the unusual exterior architecture. Shafts of light beam through decorative holes in the roof pyramid, under which lies an avant-garde sculptural water feature made up of of water flowing over crinkled metal plates. The roof pyramid is surrounded by a wood-beam ceiling, and the water feature is the focal point in a circular room featuring a plethora of colored velour sofas, a bar area, and pool table. 

The tiered grounds too -- stretching to almost nine acres -- have attractive desert landscaping with huge cacti, squat palms, and pathways that meander past a small lagoon and sun terraces with sea views. While kids are allowed, the clientele is overwhelmingly couples looking for something different from the norm.

The hotel is set on a hillside towards the south end of the popular tourist resort town of Costa Calma, on the southwest coast of Fuerteventura. It's within easy walking distance (five to 10 minutes) of the town center, which is made up of a few shops, supermarkets, and restaurants. The sands of Sotavento Beach are about a five-minute walk away down a steep gravel path, though expect the odd nudist. The local sewage plant is also not far from the hotel, which is generally inoffensive but can occasionally be picked up on the breeze. The Oasis Park Fuerteventura and surf beach Playa de la Pared are both around 15 minutes by car, while the rugged beauty of the Jandía Natural Park is a 20- to 30-minute drive. Fuerteventura Airport, however, is a fair distance away at over an hour by road.

The quirky architecture of the hotel certainly extends to the property's 51 pod-like suites, each of which consists of a long, half-cylinder shape that contains a lounge area (with occasional partial sea views), bedroom, and dome bathroom at the end. Suites also have their own inner patios with outdoor showers, while doors leads to terraces and small private gardens. Amenities include tea/coffee makers, well-stocked minibars, and flat-screen TVs in bedrooms and lounges. Bathrooms feature whirlpool tubs with portholes to the terrace, as well as step-in showers and twin basins. Wi-Fi does not extend to the rooms.

Breakfast is served buffet-style in the hotel's main restaurant, and is included in the room rate. Half-board rates also include a buffet lunch, while dinner is a la carte. A weekly barbecue buffet with live music takes place on the outdoor terrace. Romantic breakfast and dinner options are also available.

There are two outdoor pools, one of which is heated by solar power, which means water can remain very cold -- though an indoor pool is always heated. A decent-size gym overlooks the garden, and a small spa has a sauna, whirlpool tub, and treatment rooms. There's a playground for kids, and tennis courts available (though these are closer to the nearby sewage plant).