Gran Hotel La Toja ★★★★★

Located near the city of Pontevedra and the small town of O Grove, sits the small island of La Toja, connected to the mainland by a bridge. Popular with local Galicians, as well as international visitors; the island is both protected and exclusive.

Here, perched on the edge of the coast like a giant custard cream cake, in bold shades of vanilla and lemon, sits the Grand Hotel La Toja. Ringed by tall pines and exotic palms, and fronted by a large turquoise pool and perfectly manicured lawn, it makes quite a statement.

Staying true to its name, the hotel certainly is grand, as well as being the only five-star spa hotel in Galicia. With its almost legendary status, this landmark hotel offers guests the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the towns and revere in nature and peaceful surrounds.

Despite its grand old appearance, once you enter, you’ll see that modern age comfort prevail in your room. Dressed in tones of beige and ochre, and filled with all manner of deluxe fabrics, it’s understated, yet luxurious. Old world glamour comes in the form of dark wood furniture – headboards and writing desks.

Begin your holiday with a generous buffet breakfast of regional produce paired with sea views, and get ready to explore. You won’t even need to venture out of the hotel grounds before you find plenty to occupy your time. How about a game of tennis, paddle or a swim in the large outdoor pool?

Still feeling active? Then you’re also not far from a beautiful 9-hole golf course located on the beaches of the Arosa Estuary, or the surrounding beaches where you can try a range of water sports, such as scuba diving, surfing and windsurfing.

This area of Galicia, especially around the town of O Grove, is particularly well known for its excellent seafood and it even holds an annual seafood festival. Specialties include octopus sprinkled with paprika, Vieira sea scallops, battered squid rings called calamares and navajas – razor shell clams. To taste some of the best, go for lunch at the Los Hornos restaurant, located five-minutes from your hotel and offering spectacular views over the cove of O Grove.
 
Unwind after all that action and eating by indulging at in the heart of the hotel – in the Spa & Thermal Club, offering you the chance to try out the legendary therapeutic properties of the mineral enriched medicinal waters, surrounding the island of La Toja. The therapeutic properties of the waters was first discovered by the fishermen of the Arousa Estuary and declared a public utility in 1868. Naturally heated to temperatures of between 20 – 60°C, the waters can aid in preventing and helping a range of health issues such as skin problems, rheumatism, respiratory diseases, and sore joints and muscles.

Offering a wide range of facilities, here you can enjoy spa therapy, thalassotherapy and hydrotherapy techniques all in one place, as well as a relaxing Turkish bath, Finnish sauna, aromatic marine Jacuzzi and hydrothermal contrast bath. The large heated pool also boasts luxurious bubble beds, swan neck fountains, cascades and a hot tub. All these health-giving properties, relaxation areas and tranquil pools are sure to make a perfect start (or end) to any break.

End your day by enjoying the delights at the hotel’s Ensenada Restaurant, offering impeccable service, gastronomic delights and a vast wine menu.