Finca Malvasia Vineyard

The Finca sits in the island's wine region, right in the middle, so getting around is easy. When the weather wasn't quite right for the beach, I went to a couple of César Manrique museums and properties, and they were fantastic. There's so much to see on the island. I've stayed at Finca Malvasia before and love its simple decor and style, with the César Manrique influence. It's rustic and charming, and I'll be back.

The pool, with its wide views over the countryside, was a real treat for lazy afternoons with a book or a glass of local wine. You can also walk straight from the Finca into the Volcanoes. We had a restful week as a couple and already want to return. Our apartment was clean, private, and roomy, with a cozy bed, a well equipped kitchen, and a terrace that was great for slow breakfasts and stargazing. The place is beautifully designed, rustic but elegant, with carefully chosen decor and a locally sourced welcome pack. It sits among volcanic scenery and vineyards. Richard stopped by every few days to offer tips for outings, and we'd suggest renting a car to see more of the island and its landscapes.

The location is great and the service was okay, but the price feels wildly out of step with the condition of the place. The pool was very dirty, with plants, volcanic stones, and other debris blown in by the constant wind. Someone came to clean it only once a week, and it really needs daily cleaning. The bathroom had wooden blocks with what looked like mycosis, green in the attached photo, and something yellow coming out onto the floor. All the bathroom fixtures were badly rusted and seemed not to have been replaced in years. The kitchen wood was badly worn and poorly maintained, and the shower products were very poor quality. You can hear the neighbours talking from the bathroom because the sound insulation isn't good. There are no trash bins, so guests are asked to take rubbish to the city bins.

A stylish place to stay if you're after something different and want to get away from the crowds. Finca Malvasia has what you need, with well equipped accommodation that still feels rustic, plus a shared space with a big brick barbecue, pool, and yoga house. The views surround this little oasis, and it's just over ten minutes from the airport. We'll be back.