The entrance to the Jardines del Teide is a unique one as it is open air?well almost. The lobby's roof is not attached to its walls, meaning the space is both bright and cool in temperature. The reception desk, manned by polite, friendly personnel, is situated to the right, while the rest of the room is filled with fountains, plants and modern art pieces on the walls. There is a fantastic view of the coast straight ahead as you walk in to the sound of chill out music but perhaps the most original of all the features are the parrots in cages just outside on the perfectly positioned terrace. Outside are two main swimming pools as well as one for children. It is here you can fully appreciate the architecture and landscaping of the hotel with the attractive stone work and terraced outdoor spaces of the hotel acting as a backdrop to the multiple trees and plants. One of the pools is heated during winter, although both offer a great setting in which to take advantage of the sun's rays. The smaller of the two (that which is heated) is possibly slightly less exposed, however both are calm, clean and relaxed and offer plenty of space for guests. In addition, there are two solariums set aside for adults only just by the pools.
Just next to the main pool is the miniclub which is will keep the little ones occupied throughout the day and which is lucky enough to have some excellent animators. These very same put on a daily schedule of entertainment for grownups too, but care is taken so as not to disturb those who do not wish to partake in such activities. In fact, this is very much an example of how the different groups at the hotel live in harmony and everyone gets on with their personal holiday habits smoothly and without hindrance. This is not something the hotel has forced but more a situation engendered by the nature of the hotel complex itself. The evening's entertainment takes place indoors within a professional setting and includes acts brought in from outside such as singing and traditional dance. The hotel has a small, basic fitness room with a few machines, including the Power Plate, and is expecting more to be added soon. There is no wellness centre, but massages are available at extra cost and there is a hairdresser in site too. Other services at the Jardines del Teide include all sorts of activities such as pool, ping pong and squash, an internet corner with coin-operated PCs, an arcade room and a professional photography studio.
The grounds and public spaces of the hotel are lovely to wander round and are in impeccable condition. Getting to the room is easy and quick and the open corridors make a nice change to some of the dingy passages at other hotels.
Amy Adejokun
Section editor
