Papaya Cottage Punta del Hidalgo La Azócar

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Papaya Cottage? It’s tucked away on this narrow road called Camino Juana Luisa that honestly feels like you’re driving into someone’s neighborhood rather than heading to a hotel. I mean, Punta del Hidalgo isn’t exactly the flashy tourist strip most people think of when they picture Tenerife – it’s this quiet fishing village on the northern coast where locals actually live and work, not just where they pose for Instagram.

The cottage itself sits in what used to be called La Azócar, which old-timers still reference even though it’s technically just part of Punta del Hidalgo now. There’s something refreshingly authentic about staying here – you’re literally surrounded by Canarian families going about their daily routines, kids playing in the streets, and the kind of small-town rhythm that makes you slow down whether you want to or not. The Atlantic here isn’t the calm, touristy water you get down south; it’s proper ocean with waves that actually sound like waves, especially at night when everything else goes quiet. Sometimes the wind picks up and you can taste the salt air through the windows, which I actually loved but might catch some people off guard if they’re expecting that sheltered resort vibe.

What really sets this place apart is how it manages to feel both polished and genuine – and honestly, that’s harder to pull off than you’d think. The cottage has this lived-in comfort that makes you want to kick off your shoes immediately, but everything works properly and feels thoughtfully maintained. The owners clearly know their stuff because little details are just… right. Like, there’s proper coffee (not that instant nonsense), the shower pressure is actually decent, and they’ve got the kind of local knowledge that only comes from people who’ve been in the area for years. The whole setup feels more like staying at a friend’s really nice place than checking into a standard hotel room. And parking – which can be a nightmare in these old coastal villages – isn’t the usual stress-inducing hunt for a spot.

The location really grows on you too. Sure, you’re not stumbling out onto a beach boardwalk lined with bars and restaurants, but there’s something to be said for being in a place where the grocery store owner knows everyone’s name and the local bar serves food that actual locals eat. Plus, if you do want the busier scene, you’re not exactly stranded – just don’t expect to walk everywhere. The whole northern coast has this dramatic, rugged beauty that’s completely different from the southern resort areas, and honestly, after a few days of those morning walks along the coast path, you start to wonder why everyone crowds into the tourist zones. It’s the kind of place where you end up extending your stay if you can swing it, because once you settle into the rhythm of the village, leaving feels premature.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $80. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $80. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Lovely accommodation and super nice hosts😊 – Iurii from Israel – 29 June 2025 (10/10)

  We loved everything about the property. It’s newly renovated and really well equipped. We had everything we needed including a nice small coffee machine and coffee capsules. The bed is super comfortable. Usually, I wake up twice a night but in this bed I slept like a baby.
  The hosts are wonderful people, always in touch and willing to give you some recommendations how to spend your vacation in Tenerife in the best way possible.
  By the way, the accommodation is 3 minutes away by car from Chinamada and Cruz del Carmen. These are two hiking trails through the mountains. You’ll find some strikingly beautiful views there💯
  
  What could be improved: No complaints at all.

• Cosy place for the hike lovers – Elizaveta from Czech Republic – 29 June 2025 (9/10)

  Far from the busy touristic areas, very cute cottage. Very kind owners who recommended us places around. Close to the hike path starting points.
  
  What could be improved: Automatic outdoor lights were annoying, as were randomly switching on.

• The accommodation was lovely and the gardens were fabulous. – Joanne from United Kingdom – 17 June 2025 (9/10)

  The cottage and gardens were fabulous and the hosts couldnt have been more helpful
  
  What could be improved: You need a car, you are a drive from anything, so couldnt pop to the bar in the evening and had to drive to the shops. North of the island is much more overcast than the south due to the volcano.

• Nice and modern apartment close to Anaga National Park – Natalie from Germany – 8 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very nice, clean and modern apartment with friendly hosts who gave us great recommendations for hikes and places to see 🙂
  
  What could be improved: The apartment is a bit difficult to find and reach by car in the beginning. But it gets easier 😉

• Peaceful stay in a stylish tiny house with a wonderful host – Zoltan from Hungary – 2 June 2025 (9/10)

  We had an amazing stay here and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet, nature-focused getaway. The two rental tiny houses are located right next to the owner's home, set in a beautiful garden. Both houses are tastefully decorated with stylish IKEA furniture and are fully equipped, especially the kitchen – we had everything we needed. The bed was incredibly large and unbelievably comfortable – one of the best we’ve ever slept in!
  
  Victor, the host, was warm, welcoming, and always happy to help. He even has an adorable little puppy that made our stay even more delightful! Victor personally recommended great hiking spots and local sights, and even provided laundry detergent so we could wash our clothes.
  
  The surrounding area is much more suited to hiking than swimming. The local beach was nearly empty, and the weather stayed windy and cloudy for all four days of our stay – but we actually enjoyed the calm, peaceful atmosphere that came with it.
  
  One thing to be aware of: if you're arriving with a larger car, the narrow, uphill street after turning off the main road requires some extra attention, as does pulling into the property itself. It’s manageable, just worth knowing in advance.
  
  Also, in the listing photos, the two rental houses are shown side by side with interior views – so they both have just one room.
  
  All in all, a perfect stay – especially if you're looking to disconnect, hike, and relax in a beautiful setting with a fantastic host.

• Exceptional – Kateryna from Spain – 10 April 2025 (10/10)

  Amazingly beautiful please and very nice hosts! Must visit!

• A great stay! – Juliette from Norway – 9 March 2025 (9/10)

  Great area for hikes in beautiful surroundings. Nice and attentive hosts. Absolutely recommended!

• Exceptional – Zuzanna from Poland – 20 February 2025 (10/10)

  Papaya Cottage is an absolute gem! The bed was incredibly comfortable, and falling asleep to the soothing sound of the ocean was pure bliss. The location is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape—far from tourist crowds, yet within walking distance to restaurants. The cottage itself is beautifully designed, extremely clean, and feels like a little oasis. The owners were amazing, making the entire experience even more special. Highly recommended for anyone looking to relax and recharge in a stunning setting!

• Best spot we've been to on Tenerife – Sebastian from Germany – 6 January 2025 (10/10)

  Wonderful place! Excellent, modern apartment with beautiful terrace. Calm yet close to the sea and excellent hiking tracks

• Peaceful and relaxing. – Lena from Poland – 2 December 2024 (10/10)

  It's a peaceful little oasis with a beautiful garden , the neighborhood is not great but it doesn't matter at all.Little cottage is spotlessly clean, modern , comfortable , kitchen is very well equipped and great shower. Relaxing view of the ocean in the distance. Very good starting point for hiking in Anaga mountains.The owners Nayra and Victor live on the property and they are very kind , generous and helpful.The acess to the property is really easy, it's only 200 m uphill from the main street on a good road.
  
  What could be improved: Would be nice to have a teapot .

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities