Hotel La Quinta Roja THe Senses Collection

Contemporary elegance meets colonial charm at this small boutique hotel occupying a 16th-century mansion, where polished interiors remain fit for its former resident, the Marquis of Quinta Roja. Hardwood floors and beamed ceilings cocoon elegant living spaces, both indoors and out, and the hotel's two floors wrap a gorgeous outdoor courtyard. Stylish wicker seating, greenery, and water features create a peaceful space, with just the odd trickle from a centerpiece fountain. Galleried balconies forming outdoor hallways provide upper-level lounging zones, and the rooftop terrace has a sauna and hot tub. Families are welcome, but serenity here is better suited to getaway couples. Removed from crowds swarming the region's South, the hotel's rural setting equally appeals to nature lovers, and the free-to-use mountain bikes are great for excursions.

The hotel sits on Plaza de la Libertad, in the heart of Garachico's historically renowned village. The medieval San Francisco Convent and Town Hall are opposite. Dating back to 1552, San Miguel Castle's bulwarts and watchtower are a four-minute walk. Authentic restaurants here dot quiet streets, and Casa Gaspar's seafood specialities are three minutes away on foot. Amid the Atlantic's crashing waves, El Caleton's volcanic rock pools offer natural bathing. Guests also get free passes to the public swimming pool, near the aptly named "Piscina" bus stop. All are a two-minute walk. Buenavista Golf Course is a 16-minute drive, and it's an hour's drive to Teide National Park. The nearest Tenerife North Airport is a 45-minute drive. Allow up to 90 minutes by car from Tenerife South Airport.

Air-conditioned rooms aren't the largest or most opulent, but they're attractive and charming. They come in ground-floor Standards, and upper-level Plus and Suite categories. Ruby, pistachio, or cobalt blues provide accents to rich wood floors, furniture, and high beamed ceilings. Drapes around heavy wood shutters enclose Standard Room seating inlays, and checked fabrics on wicker chairs add homey, rustic-chic touches. Suites named after the region's flora offer more living space, and can accommodate extra beds. Desks accompany small satellite flat-screen TVs, safes, phones, and CD players, but rooms lack kettles or mini-fridges. Mosaic-tiled bathrooms are done in either blue or white, and some have green-marble countertops for a more elegant touch. All have decently sized walk-in showers and hairdryers, but toiletries are limited. Ground-floor rooms afford patio access, and a lucky few upper-level ones have private balconies. Views are of the picturesque square, and its pedestrian format keeps things quiet. Rooms can be fitted with cribs. Beds are two twins pushed together, but this is common for the region and Europe at large. 

Locally sourced, fresh products dominate the free continental buffet breakfast. Breads, croissants, homemade cakes, and jams accompany cold meats alongside cheeses, boiled eggs, cereals, and tropical fruits. Garden breakfasts are especially popular. The breakfast room doubles up as the hotel's "Tasca" bar, where guests can sample regional wines and tapas. The outdoor courtyard is the hotel's showpiece. Wicker seating and loungers in whites provide quiet reading spaces, and still waters at one end have cute tortoise statues near exposed stone. It's worth the climb up to the roof terrace for its sun deck, sauna, and whirlpool, and views are breathtaking from the hotel's watchtower. A small gift shop sells local goods. Guests get free passes to the nearby public pool. Bikes are free to rent, and excursions and car rentals can be arranged for a fee. The hotel doesn't offer parking. While street parking is free, the narrow streets are awkward for cars; a paid parking lot is nearby. Room service is available from morning until late, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.