Casa Las Carballas Isabel

Hotel Description

You know what’s funny about Casa Las Carballas Isabel? I almost drove right past it the first time – tucked away in this tiny hamlet called Las Abiertas, it’s basically a handful of houses scattered across the hillside above Icod de los Vinos. But honestly, that’s exactly what makes it special. While everyone else is fighting for parking spots down in the touristy bits of Tenerife, you’re up here in what feels like the real Canary Islands, where the only sounds at night are maybe some distant roosters and the wind through the pine trees.

The place itself is this charming rural house that Isabel (yes, there’s actually an Isabel) has turned into a small hotel, and I mean small – we’re talking maybe half a dozen rooms max. It’s got that authentic Canarian architecture going on, you know, with the wooden balconies and traditional stonework, but everything’s been thoughtfully updated without losing the character. The rooms are simple but really comfortable, and here’s the thing that surprised me – the WiFi actually works great, which isn’t always a given when you’re staying in these more remote spots. The 9.7 rating makes total sense once you’re there because Isabel genuinely cares about making sure you have what you need, whether that’s directions to the best hiking trails or recommendations for restaurants that locals actually eat at (not just the tourist traps).

What really sold me on this place was the location – I mean, you’re literally a ten-minute drive from the famous Drago Milenario, that ancient dragon tree that everyone comes to see, but you’re also perfectly positioned for exploring the Teide National Park without having to deal with the crowds staying closer to the main tourist centers. The drive down to Icod proper takes maybe five minutes, and there’s this little family-run restaurant called Casa Gaspar where they do incredible papas arrugadas that Isabel told us about. Plus, if you’re into hiking – and honestly, you should be if you’re staying here – you’ve got trails heading up into the laurel forests that most tourists never even know exist. The only downside, and it’s minor, is that you’ll definitely want a rental car because there’s no way you’re walking anywhere from Las Abiertas. But the parking’s easy, the roads aren’t too scary (coming from someone who’s usually nervous about mountain driving), and once you’re settled in, you’ll understand why this little spot has such devoted repeat visitors.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $171. One-Bedroom Chalet with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 3

Reviews

• New secluded house with an ocean view – Vendulka from Czech Republic – 28 January 2025 (9/10)

  The location of the house is unique – you are at the end of the village with a sea view. The accommodation is totally new, during our stay (January) it was quite cold, so we had a fire in the fireplace, everything was ready to be heated. There are two very friendly cats belonging to the house, so its very cute. There are several tourist tracks just above the house, so you dont have to ride a car to make a track.
  
  What could be improved: Unfortunately, we had a very unpleasant experience last night when someone tried to break into our house. We wrote to the owners who came immediately, checked around the house and made sure everything was ok. So it is not the fault of the accommodation, but at the same time it should be pointed out that the house is almost secluded and not suitable for people who are afraid.

• Espectacular remano de paz y naturaleza – Luz from Spain – 24 January 2025 (10/10)

  La ubicación es magnifica si lo que buscas es tranquilidad y montaña. Bajo las faldas del Teide, en medio de la naturaleza y bajo un cielo estrellado. Los propietarios muy atentos y agradables, nos recibieron y guiaron para llegar por el mejor camino. Las instalaciones están perfectas, todo nuevo, baño muy confortable. Muy bien los calefactores en baño y dormitorio y la chimenea del salón una gozada ( quizás por decir algo le pondría una puerta a la chimenea para que no ensuciara tanto y evitar el humo, aunque asi es mas natural). La cama es muy confortable y en general estaba todo perfecto.
  
  What could be improved: No puedo decir nada porque todo estaba adecuado.

• Un fin de semana espectacular – Irene from Spain – 6 January 2025 (10/10)

  La casa está en una zona alta de montaña con unas vistas privilegiadas. Por la noche se ven perfectamente las estrellas desde la bonita terraza, y por el día el sol hace que sea el lugar perfecto para desayunar oyendo los pájaros trinar. La casita es cómoda, de piedra con preciosos detalles de madera, y tiene todos los utensilios necesarios para cocinar.
  Cerca de varias rutas estupendas para ir de caminata. ¡Volveremos seguro!
  
  What could be improved: Hay que tener cuidado al volver al apartamento, siempre seguir las indicaciones de los propietarios, porque hay una zona de acceso sin asfaltar que puede ser peligrosa de noche.

SURROUNDINGS

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