Major review: Hotel Botánico on Tenerife - here's what it's really like

Antonio rushes over to stop the rule-breaking at the last second. But however fit he may be for his advancing years, he can no longer prevent the blatant foul in the very first minute. Because when you pull up at the Hotel Botánico, you don’t open the taxi door yourself. Not whilst he’s on duty. The porter makes that clear straight away.

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This is the Hotel Botánico in Tenerife

Antonio is a man of Canary Islands stature. And he has principles. This is his domain. So everything is done by his rules. And those rules state: the doorman opens the door; only then do guests set foot on the grounds of the luxury resort.

Antonio’s cap is half as wide as his shoulders. And it sits low over his face. Anyone expecting a grim, general-like stare beneath it is sorely mistaken: it is people like Antonio who give the Botánico its soul. He is the first member of staff that arriving guests see. And that makes him the central figurehead of this grand spectacle.

Check-in at the Hotel Botánico on Tenerife

A hotel like this cannot afford to lose staff like Antonio. That is probably one of the reasons why he isn’t enjoying his retirement, but continues to open doors, carry in suitcases and welcome new guests on a regular basis.

It is only then that Antonio gets a moment’s respite. At reception, guests are welcomed and checked in in three languages. Antonio passes the guest’s name on to his colleagues, who then handle the check-in process with expertise, whilst always maintaining a personal touch. He then takes over again and accompanies the new arrivals to their rooms.

The ornate lobby of the Hotel Botánico

They pass the large work of art situated in the centre of the lobby. The sculptural lamp consists of 800 crystal leaves that appear to be floating in mid-air. Beneath it lies an amethyst druse. This gigantic gemstone from Brazil weighs in at a hefty 450 kilograms.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Lobby Kunstwerk Skulptur Kristalle — A view of the entrance area at the Hotel Botanico. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

Anyone passing the Edelstein is gently but firmly ushered into the lift by Antonio. He knows every nook and cranny of the hotel, so they reach the rooms in no time at all.

„If you need anything, just ask for Antonio,“ he says as he takes his leave. Anyone wishing to make his broad smile stretch as wide as possible can slip a small note into his hand as a token of appreciation for his help. Yet at no point does Antonio give the impression that this is about a tip. He and the time-honoured hotel have far too much class for that.

This is the Hotel Botánico in Puerto de la Cruz

The Botánico is one of the best hotels on the island. They’re proud to have been the first in the Canary Islands to be admitted to the illustrious circle of the „Leading Hotels of the World“. That was in 1998. And sometimes you can sense the hotel’s eventful history.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Flur Teppich — Shaggy carpets can be found throughout the corridors of the Hotel Botánico. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

The path to the room leads across thick-pile red carpets. These are typical of hotels of this sort. The Botánico stands out a little here in the north of Tenerife. Amidst all the ageing hotels from the 1960s and 1970s, such opulence really stands out. And yet it fits in perfectly here, as the anti-ageing treatments offered to guests at the Botánico at individual prices in the spa area could well do the building a world of good here and there.

In an age of concept hotels, with interiors that are by turns colourful and modern, this hotel seems somewhat out of step with the times. Yet there is a reason for this. The Botánico aims to convey classic chic. And it certainly succeeds – in its very own way.

Peace and relaxation at the Hotel Botánico

Even on the way to your room, it becomes clear that guests can really switch off here. Whether the hotel is full or only a few rooms are occupied, there’s never any hustle and bustle. With one exception: on Saturdays, the locals turn up. When the local high society descends on the bar for a mid-morning brunch or a few long drinks in the evening, things do get a bit lively. Nevertheless, anyone seeking peace and relaxation is in excellent hands at the hotel.

The rooms and suites at the Hotel Botánico

The categories differ mainly in terms of room size. The amenities are similar – apart from the coffee machine and whirlpool, which are standard from suite level upwards: on arrival, all guests receive a fruit basket and a bottle of mineral water. In addition, two cans of still water are provided every day.

The standard room, measuring 30 square metres and featuring a small balcony, is available with sea and Teide views. Whilst the view towards the centre of Tenerife comes at a small extra cost, the view over Puerto de la Cruz is included as standard. And it’s the insider tip when choosing a room. Because it’s particularly peaceful out towards the sea.

Down below lies the rarely used putting green for golf beginners and those who want to perfect their putt. Beyond that, there’s nothing for quite some distance. Every now and then, a car drives down one of the side streets. And apart from that, there’s the chirping of birds and – very early in the morning, when the town is still asleep – despite the distance from the coast, which is bridged by a shuttle service during the day, even the sound of the sea.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Zimmer Bett — A view inside one of the rooms at the Hotel Botánico on Tenerife. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

The Junior Suite offers the same level of service with a little more space (56 square metres). The Senator Suites are as large as 68 square metres and have their own terrace. If that’s not enough, you can also book Penthouse Suites. These are up to 83 square metres in size and, with a 117 sqm terrace, offer plenty of opportunities to get away from your flatmates every now and then.

Those who want to be absolutely sure can stay in one of the three bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, in the Presidential Suite. Guests can then spend time together in the separate kitchen or the shared living room. Across the 420 square metres, guests are surrounded by exquisite Thai fabrics, unique carpets from Madrid, and a variety of antiques and works of art.

Celebrities at the Hotel Botánico

Legend has it that various Hollywood stars have stayed there. No wonder, Tenerife is increasingly being discovered as a filming location for various big-budget films. Politicians are also said to have stayed at the Botánico. It is rumoured that Bill Clinton even hired an entire floor for himself and his guests during a golf tournament in 2005.

Pool & garden – the showpieces of the Hotel Botánico

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Pool Liegen — The pool loungers are made of solid wood. Inflatable mattresses make sunbathing particularly comfortable. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

In a house like this, one can only speak of a down-to-earth atmosphere to a limited extent. However, anyone who is content with the – at least relatively – modest living space will, sooner or later, find themselves heading to the garden bar and the swimming pool during the day. Both provide the perfect setting for a pleasant time in the sun. The solid wood sun loungers are upholstered with extremely comfortable air cushions, and the bar offers wide armchairs to lounge in.

The pool is open to visitors aged 16 and over. It is supervised by a lifeguard all day and cleaned regularly. The lush garden keeps the staff very busy, but it makes for a breathtaking atmosphere.

Although there are usually only a few guests in the pool at any one time, when swimming you should at least expect to come across the odd leaf or twig, which the staff will then skilfully fish out of the pool.

If the usually peaceful pool is still too hectic, you can finally unwind in the adjoining garden. The grounds feature a large koi pond, which can be crossed via two bridges.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Garten Palme Teide — When the weather is fine, visitors can see Mount Teide from the hotel garden. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

More than 200 different species of trees and plants provide shade, inviting guests to linger on one of the benches or on the well-tended lawn. Guests are only asked to move on when one of the robotic lawnmowers starts work. Fortunately, however, these little helpers move rather sedately – and are very quiet too.

The sumptuous breakfast at the Hotel Botánico

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Frühstück Buffet — A view of parts of the breakfast buffet. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

It’s a different story when the numerous gardeners get to work. The lavish breakfast buffet draws most guests away from the large dining room and towards the tables by the pool bar. And that’s where the weeding and mowing take place in the morning. This is because the small patches of lawn around the pool and bar, in particular, are still cut by hand to the standard of the Canary Islands. And, unfortunately, this usually happens right at breakfast time.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Frühstück Omelette — Breakfast includes, amongst other things, freshly made omelettes. Anyone who wishes can sit by the pool bar. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

As well as omelettes freshly prepared to order, a wide variety of cheese and cold meat specialities are on offer. These are accompanied by fruit, a selection of pastries, bread, muesli, yoghurt and much more. A range of speciality coffees and teas are also served, along with a variety of freshly squeezed juices. On Sundays, sparkling wine is also available.

Wellness & Spa at the Hotel Botanico

Once guests and their stomachs are satisfied, a spot of sunbathing offers not only the well-maintained grounds but, above all, the much-desired tranquillity so often touted in brochures.

Those who wish to indulge further can enjoy a massage in one of the 20 private treatment rooms. The adjoining 3,500-square-metre spa area also offers the perfect setting to unwind, with Ayurvedic treatments, a thermal circuit in the heated pool, a Japanese sauna, a laconium, a Turkish bath, aromatherapy, an ice grotto, a sensory shower and a hydromassage pool.

The restaurants at the Hotel Botánico

In the evening, guests can dine in several restaurants. „The Slim“ is aimed particularly at fitness enthusiasts and those who do not wish to break their diet whilst on holiday. „The Oriental“ serves Thai haute cuisine with a South-East Asian influence. Meanwhile, „Il Pappagallo“ serves Mediterranean cuisine, whilst „Palmera Real“, the pool bar, serves local dishes from the Canary Islands as well as the hotel’s signature snacks, ranging from club sandwiches to Caesar salads.

Perhaps Tenerife’s friendliest hotel staff

A whole army of staff are on hand at the Hotel Botánico in Tenerife to ensure all this runs smoothly. The majority of the staff assist guests in three languages – Spanish, English and, in most cases, German too. Almost all of them possess the friendliness and patience that Antonio conveys as soon as you arrive.

It is striking just how much joy a brief greeting in passing brings. It seems unusual for guests to say ‚good day‘ of their own accord. This is met with sincere smiles and infectious joy.

These are the Botánico’s awards

If guests were to count the awards and certificates – which are displayed on a wall not far from the lobby, somewhat tucked away – the hotel has around 100 of them. These include accolades from tour operators, independent reviewers and subject-specific awards, such as those for the spa facilities.

The overall condition: the hotel has seen better days

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Gebäude — The Hotel Botánico features extensive wooden panelling. In places, this makes the building appear rather dark. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

However, all this has also left its mark. The Hotel Botánico is a building that was constructed not too long after the neighbouring hotels in Puerto de la Cruz. It was most recently refurbished during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this, more power sockets were installed to meet guests‘ current energy needs. Modern smart TVs are also a hit with guests – for example, as they allow guests to use streaming services such as Netflix.

Yet the hotel cannot deny its origins. In the Canary Islands, people are quite fond of putting off necessary work until tomorrow. Although this ‚tomorrow‘ does not necessarily mean the following day. And so, whilst the rooms are considered to have been refurbished, anyone who sits on the balcony and lets their gaze wander will spot a hopelessly rusted bracket beneath the freshly painted wooden railing.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Zimmer Balkon Kritik Geländer — Not all „Leading Hotels of the World“ have rust under the balcony railings. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

Other parts of the balcony also fall short of one’s expectations. Sometimes these are minor cosmetic flaws; at other times – as in the case of the railing – such oversights could even be dangerous.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Zimmer Balkon Kritik Lampe — Particularly given the recent refurbishment work, this could have been sorted out more effectively with minimal effort. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

Room service at the Hotel Botánico

The situation is similar in the bathroom: the high standards of housekeeping dictate that staff should always adopt the same positions as guests do during their stay. If this were done regularly in all rooms, certain things would surely have been noticed. For example, the fact that scribbles made with a red felt-tip pen during the refurbishment can still be seen on the marble tiles in the bathroom. Or that, in the room we inspected, the label from a cola bottle was stuck rather randomly beneath the air-conditioning unit for no apparent reason.

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Zimmer Klimaanlage Kritik — A drinks label was stuck to the air-conditioning unit in the room being tested, with no explanation as to why. On the second day of the stay, our tester removed it himself. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

Limescale stains on the shower head or dust on items on higher shelves do nothing to detract from your holiday relaxation. In fact, the room service is as professional as it is friendly, efficient and, not least thanks to the evening turndown service, always attentive:

Hotel Botanico Teneriffa Zimmer Bett aufgedeckt — The bed is made by the evening room service staff. A rug is intended to make getting into bed more pleasant. Meanwhile, the lampshade remained crooked throughout the entire stay. Photo: Johannes Bornewasser

However, anyone who measures themselves against the ‚Leading Hotels of the World‘ must be prepared to face criticism for things that, for example, would be considered an absolute no-go at Brenner’s Parkhotel. The benchmark is high and the criticism is rigorous, yet both must be applied and voiced.

Book the Hotel Botánico and check prices

The Hotel Botánico in Tenerife is one of the finest hotels in the Canary Islands. Its target audience extends far beyond older, well-heeled couples. The hotel caters to those with the necessary means, yet offers the perfect place to recharge one’s batteries for everyone from those seeking a simple, peaceful poolside holiday to gourmets and spa enthusiasts alike.

Anyone thinking of staying at the hotel used to be best advised to visit the hotel’s website. These days, however, typical travel websites are sometimes significantly cheaper. Prices start at around 200 euros per night, including breakfast, for a single room, and around 250 euros, including breakfast, for two people in a double room. In several spot checks, this website here offered the cheapest deals.

Review of the Hotel Botánico: Our verdict

Guests may have to turn a blind eye here and there to the fact that some areas exude the charm of bygone decades or could do with a refresh and a polish. However, they are then rewarded with extremely attentive service and superb pool and garden facilities.

And last but not least, there are the interesting conversations. From the receptionist to the head porter, all the staff are happy to take the time for a quick chat. Although Antonio sometimes has to interrupt him in a friendly manner. Otherwise, the next guest runs the risk of making their first mistake the moment they arrive.

Photos: All the highlights from the Hotel Botanico on Tenerife

Photos: This is what the Hotel Botanico in Tenerife looks like

Note: Our author did not identify himself as a hotel reviewer. Furthermore, Teneriffa News paid for the entire stay himself. The stay described therefore provides a realistic picture.