Casa El Morro

Sitting between 3 national parks above a pretty Canarian village, these self-catering suites are quirky, rustic and ever-so-laidback

A cross between a Moroccan riad and an executive hippy hideaway, Casa El Morro is laid back to the point of being horizontal. Balinese beds beckon round every shady corner, and the sweet smell of incense adds to the floaty atmosphere. Getting back in tune with nature is one of the major lures - the gardens are awash with citrus trees, Canary Palms, figs and lavender; several walks begin and end close to the guesthouse; and there are more strenuous activities close by, including windsurfing and mountain-biking.

Owner Raquel Hidalgo spent 10 years converting this 18th century mansion above the village of Uga into a rustic hideaway. Seven self-contained suites for 2-5 sit round a central balconied courtyard, each with its own kitchen and terrace. Part Arabic, part Canarian and part East Asian, the decor is as eclectic as the clientele. Young families to serious trekkers, painters to stressed-out professionals, there's a broad range of visitors enjoying carefree days in this stunning, lunar landscape.

Highs

• Relaxing to the extreme: the atmosphere is so informal, you feel like you own the place
• Eco friendly furnishings: much use of recycling, solar power and non-toxic wall finishings
• The personal touch: Raquel shares many of her belongings so that it’s like staying at a close relative’s
• Sweet aromas: incense, candles and essential oils perfume every cranny
• Chill-out zone: the large pool is surrounded by Balinese beds and other weapons of mass relaxation
• The setting: close enough to walk to the village of Uga, but far enough away to feel pleasantly isolated

Lows

• Small lizards stroll around the bedrooms like paying guests
• Mosquitoes can be a problem, though nets are provided for your bed
• A noisy neighbour lives across the road, prone to sporadic outbursts of vitriol aimed at no-one in particular
• The pool is a little chilly from November till May/June
• There's a minimum stay of 1 week, but shorter stays during the low season are considered