Finca La Gaviota – El Granito

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Finca La Gaviota – El Granito? The name itself tells you everything – it’s literally perched on this granite outcrop that feels like it’s been carved straight from the Tenerife landscape. I mean, when you’re driving up Camino la Sabina (and honestly, GPS gets a bit confused here, so keep your eyes peeled for the number 52), you start to understand why they call this place “the little granite rock.” The setting is just… well, it’s properly dramatic without being showy about it.

The thing about staying in Icod de los Vinos is that most people rush through to see the famous dragon tree and then head back to the coast, but they’re missing out on this whole other side of Tenerife. This finca sits right in the middle of wine country – actual working vineyards, not the touristy kind – and you can smell it in the air, especially in the evenings when the temperature drops. The owners clearly know what they’re doing; it’s got that four-star polish without feeling stuffy or corporate. Check-in was refreshingly straightforward (none of that resort-style production), and they actually seem to care about pointing you toward the good local spots rather than just handing you a generic area map.

What really works here is how they’ve balanced the rural setting with genuine comfort. The rooms have this solid, substantial feel – you know, thick walls that actually keep things quiet, proper hot water pressure, beds that don’t creak when you move. Parking’s easy, which honestly matters more than you’d think when you’re navigating these mountain roads after a day of wine tasting. The 7.9 rating feels about right – it’s not going to blow your mind with luxury, but it delivers exactly what it promises. I’d say the sweet spot for staying here is late spring or early fall when the weather’s perfect for exploring the vineyards on foot, and you’re not competing with the summer crowds down in Puerto de la Cruz. Plus, you’re only about fifteen minutes from the coast when you want that ocean fix, but far enough inland to feel like you’re experiencing the real Canary Islands – the part that locals actually live in, not just vacation at.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $80. Apartment with Sea View with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities