The Ritz-Carlton, Abama
When it’s grey in Europe, people aren’t flocking to Tenerife for its cultural scene. It’s the island’s climate, beaches and bars that draw tourists here. It’s the first week of winter when I arrive, and England is officially wet and windy. Stepping off the plane and into sunshine feels like that four-hour flight has transported me somewhere much further away.
The Canary Islands, often compared to Hawaii’s volcanic islands without the rain and hefty price tags, are amazing. Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canaries, and Abama is a little slice of heaven on the island’s jagged southwest coast. The Ritz-Carlton Abama is situated on 400 acres of gardens along Tenerife’s sun-drenched west coast and offers an incredible way to experience the Canary Islands. The hotel boasts two Michelin- starred restaurants and 10 eateries in total. There is a gym, spa, seven heated pools, a renowned goal course and an exclusive beach with stunning views over the nearby cliffs.
Surrounded by banana trees, mountains and the sea, the Ritz-Carlton Abama is a stunning resort. It is positioned atop a cliff looking out over to La Gomera, being one of - if not the - most incredible views on the island. The coral-pink paint that covers all of the Moorish-style buildings reminds you that Morocco is not far either. The hotel rises up out of the hillside like a glorious pink Kasbah, nestled amongst lush vegetation and tumbling down in sweeping terraces towards the sea. Nothing blows the cobwebs away than the juxtaposition between pink and cloudless azure sky to get you in the holiday mood…cue the cocktails!
Our gorgeous Citadel Suite
We stayed in the hotel’s stunning Citadel King Suite, housed in the citadel of the property. The clean, sleek feel of the lobby extends to the rooms lending a tranquil and calming feel, which is often just what’s needed to help you unwind. These premium rooms all have large plush beds, balconies with chairs for catching those late afternoon rays and shower and bath facilities.
Our room had a subtle North-African feel to it, adorned with tribal artwork and pottery - which I loved. Along with the separate dining and television room. Our enormous bathroom was made entirely of marble, and we had a beautiful balcony that overlooked the tropical garden and uninterrupted view of the Atlantic Ocean. One of my favourite things to do on the trip was to wake up early every morning and sit on the balcony, soaking up the early morning sun and listening to the birds chirping. In the evenings after dinner, we would sit with a nightcap and gaze up at the stars – it really was paradise.
Ritz-Carlton welcome wagon
Our bathroom - fully kitted with Asprey toiletries
This last one might seem odd to note but my travel partner and I differ considerably when it comes to washing! They are an ardent shower fan, however; I love to wallow in warm bubbly waters until I am sufficiently pruned and will only venture to the shower when I need to wash my hair. The option of both and being separate bathroom entities is a real plus for the rooms at the Abama. Finally, on the topic of luxurious bathrooms, the Abama generously provides a gorgeous range of toiletries courtesy of Asprey: Purple Water collection. Pictured is the main bathroom, but there is a separate toilet room adjacent to this if both parties need to use the loo. Perfect for those post-breakfast toilet runs.
The star of the show - the Del Mar infinity pool
The Abama resort complex is extensive, with a championship golf course, tennis courts, private villas, fitness centre and spa, the main citadel and pool areas down to the Tagor Villas and the beach. Despite the sprawling expanse of the resort, it is remarkable how unique and secluded each area is.
My favourite feature is of course the infinity pool, exclusive only to villa guests, although we were kindly given access by my contact. We had booked the trip as a relaxation from home and to switch off. I rarely spend time off my phone or relaxing as my usual 9-6 is so hectic, so the majority of our time at the hotel was spent by this pool, soaking up the warm winter sun and reading (although I’ll admit I did do a tiny bit of work).
The Del Mar infinity pool at sunset
Playa Abama - the resort’s exclusive beach
As guests of the Abama, you can freely use the beach and sun loungers. The hotel offers exclusive access to the beach with its Resort train and the concession on the sand for all Ritz-Carlton guests. Views from the beach particularly at sunset are stunning.
Our stunning Spanish spread at the hotel’s ‘El Mirador’ restaurant
El Mirador restaurant is the hotel’s on-site Canarian dining destination, situated at the very nose of the resort. As with any island, seafood is a must, and as the freshly grilled squid arrives with a salad of local avocado and a side of the island’s special wrinkled potatoes (rolled in squid ink to make them black), I see why Tenerife could soon be one of the top food trips in Europe. The fare was sensational, served by polite and well-mannered staff, and with a lot of Albariño.
El Mirador’s glorious Seafood Paella
Breakfast is at the Veranda restaurant in the main Citadel. With a full buffet breakfast on offer, there is a large array of favourites available daily. From waffles and pancakes, to fresh tropical fruit, yoghurt Spanish cold cuts, omelets, English breakfast - the list is endless.
Breakfast at the Citadel
Txoko restaurant’s famous truffle and Ox cheek.
The Ritz Carlton Abama offers everything I need for a holiday and a break from the harsh winter season in England. Fabulous food, drinks, service, amenities and a whole host of additional extras. This is a truly special place and one which I will continue to return to. As always, leaving is the hardest, least enjoyable part. There’s so much to love about the Abama and so much to explore in Tenerife. I can always tell the success of a trip if I start thinking about planning my next visit before actually leaving, and I can safely say I’m guilty of doing this on day two!
Thank you Arianna and The Ritz Carlton Abama for such a sensational stay x
Address: Guia de Isora Tenerife, Spain - The Ritz-Carlton, Abama