Casa de Hilario

A cluster of 7 stylish rooms on the edge of one of Lanzarote’s prettiest whitewashed villages

Knowing what to do and where to go can make the difference between a phenomenal holiday and a mediocre one. Owner José Ignacio Amigo is akin to having your own personal Lonely Planet at hand. When you arrive at Casa de Hilario he will sit you down to find out exactly how he can help. His contacts and local knowledge mean you will enjoy his hospitality but also ensure that you have precisely the kind of holiday you’re looking for.

Converted from an 18th-century cottage, this pretty white property looks like a normal family abode, albeit an affluent one. But since 2006 José and his partner Tatiana have been hard at work behind the façade designing, adapting and building 7 double rooms. Using bold colours and contemporary fittings, they’ve created compact yet stylish accommodation for those keen to avoid the Lanzarote crowds. This boutique guesthouse is close enough to walk into Yaiza village, but far enough out to be classified as a rural residence. Trekking and mountain biking trails are literally on the doorstep; needless to say, José can sort you out.

Highs

• José: he'll do his damnedest to please, from lending you his yacht club pass to taking you on guided walks and bike rides himself
• The small swimming pool: heated from November and with views of the ocean
• Spectacular village-, ocean- and mountain views
• Location: great for Playa Blanca, Timanfaya Mts, La Geria vineyards
• Yaiza: a pretty village of sugar cube houses and palm-fringed plazas
• Dining options: there’s a splendid Canarian restaurant right next door, and although it’s a short drive away, sister property La Casona de Yaiza is among the best restaurants on the island

Lows

• This is a guesthouse, not a hotel, so service is intermittent, and there's no restaurant or bar
• Weak WiFi signal; although it’s free, thick stone walls make connecting with hyperspace a hit and miss experience
• The bold decor may not be to everyone's taste, but we liked it
• Recent feedback suggests rooms can be cold and the village very quiet out of season
• If you plan on hiking, biking or other José-related activities, you should check he'll be there before booking