The Ritz-Carlton, Abama, Spain

rooms

The rooms and suites have been designed with an 'Out of Africa' theme to compliment the hotel's Moorish architecture. The earthy tones create a warm and welcoming space. Arranged between the Citadel and the Villas, all rooms boast private terraces from which to enjoy spectacular views. Choose from a double or deluxe double room with a sea or garden view, complete with four poster bed.

Then there are the spacious suites. The Junior Suite or One Bedroom Suites feature a separate sitting area and floor-to-ceiling windows that open out onto the terraces. For a little more luxury, there's the Presidential or Royal Suite, with two bedrooms, private terrace and jacuzzi from which to enjoy panoramic views. The Imperial Suite, at the top of the Citadel has unparalleled views and a private pool.

For a little more privacy choose one of the Tagor' villas. Tagor is known colloquially as 'peaceful' and these are strictly adults-only. Complete with personalised check-in and personal villa attendant, these also offer fully furnished terrace, floor-to-ceiling windows and a pool.

facilities & activities

With seven pools, including exclusive villa pools, an adults-only infinity pool and two natural lagoon pools, carved into the volcanic rock, you could choose a different one each day and still be spoiled for choice by the weekend. Alternatively, there's a private sandy beach reserved especially for guests. Enjoy the soft sand and rumble of the Atlantic whilst you sip a fresh juice from the beach-side bar.

The hotel is also home to one of the three top golf courses in Spain. It's probably the combination of stunning Atlantic views, the varied terrain and the unique design (the brain child of Ryder Cup player Dave Thomas) that make this a true destination for golf enthusiasts.

There's an array of other sports on tap too. For starters there are seven tennis courts, four paddle courts and a training academy, or head off-resort and explore the incredible terrain on horseback or foot. A huge choice of water-sports, from deep-sea diving to jet-skiing are on offer. For a little relaxation afterwards head to the award- winning spa with its beautiful outdoor cabana and deluxe treatment rooms.

The hotel also organises plenty of interesting excursions locally. Enjoy a guided Jeep Tour or take to the skies with a helicopter ride and marvel at the jaw-dropping views. There's a cable-car to the summit of Mount Teide (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or burn some calories by hiking to the top to revel in the views. Hire a private catamaran and spot dolphins and whales in the glittering Atlantic Ocean, or just wander around the lush gardens at the hotel, with their hidden nooks and crannies.

Spend your evenings soaking up the vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment at Cubanika Bar, the relaxing music of the Piano Bar or the nightly entertainment on the spacious alfresco terrace.

dining

You'll find an incredible choice of restaurants (two Michelin-starred) offering all types of fare, from Argentinian steak, to fish and chips, to tapas. Set on the slopes of the Teide Mountains, all have spectacular settings that add to the charm. MB - the signature restaurant, offering authentic Basque cuisine boasts two of the coveted Michelin stars. Japanese Kabuki (the proud owner of another Michelin star) uses fresh and seasonal local ingredients fused with an Asian flare.

Alternatively, choose from fresh seafood at El Mirador, succulent steak at the Pampa Grill or Italian delicacies at Verona. You'll find lighter bites at the many bars - choose from pool-side or beach-side, or fresh authentic tapas complimented by local wines at the Tapas Bar. Savour a cocktail at Los Chozos and enjoy local Canarian specialities. The Sports Bar, Piano Bar and Cubanika have live entertainment every evening (we've also heard whispers of legendary chunky chips and a signature chocolate cake, but we'll leave that to you to discover!).

family

The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes families feel at ease and there are plenty of activities to keep children busy – from ball sports, to the pools, to the sandy beach. For children aged 4-12 there is a complimentary 'Ritz Kids Club'. Open daily from 10am they'll be immersed in a variety of arts, crafts, theatre and sports. With 300sqm of indoor and outdoor space and a programme developed exclusively with Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ocean Futures Society, they'll leave brimming with new-found knowledge about the world, its waters, culture and environment. For a small supplement they can stay for the 'Fun Evening'; open every evening from 6pm until midnight. Alternatively, babysitting can be arranged directly with the hotel and there is the option of a private nanny should you wish.

There are children's menus throughout which include a small salad, a choice of entree and drink (NB only children aged 6+ are allowed at the Michelin-starred restaurants). All baby equipment such as high chairs, bottle warmers and cots can be provided on request. The spacious rooms and suites, with king-sized or twin beds, have plenty of room for a family and interconnecting rooms are available on request.

location

The hotel is found on Tenerife's lovely south-western shore and above the peaceful resort of Guia de Isora. This enchanting little village offers sweeping views over the banana plantations and Atlantic, along with a pretty harbour and promenade. It's a 25 minute drive from the main airport and valet parking is available. Alternatively, transfers can be organised directly with the hotel.