Reviewed by
Olivia Allen
Just north of the iconic Timanfaya National Park, in a sleepy, unassuming, authentically Canarian village, is this beautifully converted 19th-century mini-estate. The white-washed house and outbuilding have been converted into 4 charming one-bedroom apartments and studios, plus a separate two-bedroom cottage within the old bodega (wine press). All are stylishly renovated, with nifty kitchenettes, restored antiques, potted palms and succulents spilling from every corner (hence the house's name); and - perhaps the trump card - a shared courtyard with pool and alfresco dining area. This is where guests tend to relax and socialise: swimming in the pool, cooking up a storm on the barbecue, and marvelling at the island’s rugged volcanic hills from the comfy loungers.
Although it feels a million miles from the bustling resorts of this small island, the house's central location means there are plenty of activities at your fingertips. The landscape has an extensive network of cycle routes (4 of which are on your doorstep), beaches are a short drive away, and you can explore the charred terrain on one of the many trekking and hiking tours available in the area. Grab your family or friends and embark on a few sun-warmed adventures - you'll soon be thankful for that notorious Lanzarote breeze!
Although it feels a million miles from the bustling resorts of this small island, the house's central location means there are plenty of activities at your fingertips. The landscape has an extensive network of cycle routes (4 of which are on your doorstep), beaches are a short drive away, and you can explore the charred terrain on one of the many trekking and hiking tours available in the area. Grab your family or friends and embark on a few sun-warmed adventures - you'll soon be thankful for that notorious Lanzarote breeze!
Highs
- The studios are great for couples wanting a cosy, self-catering bolthole
- The two-bedroom cottage is perfect for a family, with a double and a twin bedroom, plus a private terrace
- There’s a handy store room with a wetsuit shower, bike racks and a washing machine
- We also enjoyed chilling out in the subterranean library and reading room, converted from an old aljibe (water tank)
- Well placed for cycling, trekking and surfing - and only 15 mins drive from the beaches at Caleta de Caballo and Famara
Lows
- Car hire is essential if you want to make the most of the island - the village is quiet, with only two eateries and a supermarket
- Kitchenettes are only equipped for light meals; and studio guests wanting to dine outdoors will have to use the communal table
- Be aware you'll be sharing the pool with guests of the other studios and apartments
- It's self-check-in, with no staff on site - but we found local reps responded quickly via Whatsapp
- No kids allowed, except in the cottage; and all the studios are double-bedded (no twins)
Best time to go
With almost perennial good weather, Lanzarote is a year-round destination. The winter months are the busiest as northern Europeans seeking sun flock to the island. If you are planning an active holiday, you might want to avoid the more extreme heat of July and August.
Our top tips
Be sure to pick up some aloe-vera beauty products. They’re a Canarian speciality and great for looking after sun-drenched skin. There are even a couple of museums dedicated to this spikey plant!