Casa Doña Carmela GuestHouse – Adults Only

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Casa Doña Carmela? It’s tucked away on Calvo Sotelo in a way that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something the cruise ship crowds haven’t found yet. I mean, you’re still in the heart of Santa Cruz – literally a few minutes’ walk from the main shopping district and that gorgeous García Sanabria Park – but somehow it feels removed from all the tourist chaos. The building itself has this understated elegance that’s very Canarian, honestly. None of that flashy resort nonsense, just clean lines and local character that actually fits the neighborhood.

The adults-only policy is something I didn’t fully appreciate until I was there. Look, I love kids, but there’s something refreshing about sipping your morning coffee on their terrace without the soundtrack of splashing and screaming, you know? The whole vibe is just… calmer. More thoughtful. The owners – and I’m pretty sure Doña Carmela is still involved somehow – have created this space where you can actually unwind. The rooms are simple but well-thought-out, with those little touches that show someone cares: proper reading lights, decent water pressure (crucial after a day hiking in Anaga), and blackout curtains that actually block out the streetlights. Speaking of which, Calvo Sotelo can get a bit busy during the day, but it quiets down nicely at night.

What really sets this place apart is how it connects you to the real Santa Cruz. You’re not stuck in some resort bubble – you’re walking the same streets locals use, grabbing coffee at the same cafés. The Saturday morning market at Nuestra Señora de África is maybe a ten-minute walk, and honestly, that’s where you’ll find the best fresh produce and local specialties. The staff here gets that – they’re not trying to keep you locked in the hotel spending money on overpriced drinks. They’ll point you toward the good tapas spots (there’s this incredible little place around the corner that does the best papas arrugadas I’ve had on the island) and help you figure out the bus system if you want to explore beyond the city. I stayed here during Carnival season, which was absolutely mental in the best way possible, and even then the guesthouse felt like a peaceful retreat at the end of those long, wonderful nights. The 9.3 rating isn’t just numbers – it reflects that rare combination of location, value, and genuine hospitality that’s getting harder to find these days.

Rooms

• Double Room with Private Bathroom with 1 double bed for 2 adults
• Superior Double Room with Private Bathroom with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Double Room with Private Bathroom with 1 double bed for 2 adults
• Double Room with Private External Bathroom with 1 double bed for 1 adult

Reviews

• Cristinaghenea from Romania (10/10)

  We went to Tenerife on our honeymoon and split our vacation between the north and south of the island. That's how we ended up at Casa Doña Carmela, where Amos took care of ensuring we had all the comfort we need.
  
  The accommodation is very well positioned, not too close to the center to avoid the hustle and parking issues, but not too far either. Moreover, it's very close to the tram station that quickly takes you to the center (only 2 stops).
  
  The accommodation has a beautifully arranged rooftop terrace where you can sunbathe, enjoy your morning coffee, or simply relax. A big plus is also the breakfast offered every morning, very tasty and varied enough.
  
  But what made us feel best here was Amos and the wonderful lessons we learned from him: kindness, care for their beautiful island, and efforts against food waste!
  
  Thank you, Amos, for these lessons and for all the advice on where to spend the best time in Tenerife!

• Dóra from Netherlands (10/10)

  The whole accomodation has a really nice atmosphere, the room was clean, the breakfast was super, and I haven’t experienced better hospitability elsewhere than here.

• Althea from Spain (8/10)

  There are few rooms and, therefore, travellers. It was cozy and calm. They give you personalised breakfasts and the staff is very nice.

• Pamela from Canada (8/10)

  The breakfast was spectacular! The free water in the room was a nice touch. The mattress and pillows were very comfortable. The terrace was a peaceful oasis.

• Karas from Czech Republic (10/10)

  We stayed there for only two days, but it was fantastic! Amos is very friendly, helpful, and makes amazing breakfasts. If you have any issues, Amos responds immediately and offers assistance. Thank you!

• Marcinislandia from Iceland (10/10)

  Great owner, very helpful, delicious breakfast is 6 types to choose. Elastic booking hours.

• Lana from Serbia (9/10)

  Great breakfast- you can choose between 6 options.
  The room was small, clean, with AC.

• Patricia from Germany (10/10)

  Simple but comfortable and friendly host

• Laurie from Spain (8/10)

  Amos was incredibly helpful and attentive. Breakfast was tasty and filling each morning. Room was comfortable and rooftop terrace was very nice. We went up there in the evenings a couple of times with an after dinner coffee or glass of wine.

• Hanna from Poland (9/10)

  Super-friendly and helpful host Amos, quiet neighbourhood in the local district, delicious breakfast, beautiful terrace! Highly recommend 🙂

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities