The Ritz-Carlton, Abama ★★★★★

You always know you are in Spain when in the Canary Islands. And yet … the proximity of Tenerife to Africa, means the climate has the unmistakeable warmth and reliable sunshine that make the islands so attractive at any time of the year. The pristine sandy beaches owe a lot to their African neighbour as well, through the prevailing ocean currents. All this, together with the plentiful water supply in the north of the islands, and resulting lush vegetation, makes a paradise of ‘eternal spring’ for the perfect holiday.

The sight of the hotel when we arrived was stunning. Terracotta terraces with hanging balconies, airy stairways curving up through tall palm trees, and the pool so beautifully landscaped to fit in with the surroundings of shady pergolas and natural vegetation… it seems to exude a tranquil harmony between man and nature. From the pool, you look straight out over the sparkling blue of the Atlantic Ocean, a scene transformed by the sunset glow on the water with reflected palm trees.

We went inside, and were greeted by impeccably courteous staff. Our rooms were decorated in cool clean colours, shades of taupe and white with blue splashes. There was a little private balcony, furnished with a settee, table, and chairs, so we could lap up the warm air and the glorious sea view at any time. All 5-star luxury features were provided, with lovely details like the feather pillows, bathrobe and slipper set, and Asprey toiletries in the bathroom. 

After settling in, me into my room and my friend into her suite with a connecting room for the children, we went to explore. So many different places to see! Outdoor seating areas with lovely mosaic-tiled floor and comfortable upholstered sofas and chairs, outdoor bar areas overlooking the pool, little private balconies for dining à deux with lantern lighting and the ocean view, a huge lounge with the trademark terracotta décor for relaxing indoors, and numerous restaurants. Our explorations came to a temporary halt when we discovered the children’s playroom. It is bright and spacious, with furnishing, toys, and activities all designed to be irresistible to the little ones. We could only prise them away with a promise to return the next morning, unless they would prefer the beach! The kids club has a friendly and professional staff and our two instantly took to them. They have their own mini theatre for movie and popcorn nights, sports and art activities all day... in the end we never needed to get a babysitter while enjoying the spa or restaurants. 

We all had our different highlights of the holiday, although we all enjoyed everything! For the children, it was the ride down to the picture-perfect, white-sand private beach on the funicular railway – even more fun than the kid’s club. For me the highlight was the spa. I had a great Ayurvedic massage and loved the whirlpool, Turkish bath steam room, and heated ceramic tile lounge chairs. The decorative tiling just has to be seen to be believed; really lovely.  For my friend, the highlight was the two-Michelin-star restaurant, the M.B (named after Chef Martín Berasategui); dining there was a fantastic adventure. There is the Kabuki restaurant too, which has one Michelin star and is also truly superb.

Between all of us, with our different ‘favourites’, we had a perfect family holiday. We would all love to return to the Ritz-Carlton, especially the children, and so I expect they will be able to persuade us without too much difficulty.