La Hacienda del Buen Suceso

A splendidly restored hacienda estate – the oldest in the Canaries – set in a sea of banana trees with views for miles around

You could be forgiven for thinking you are a distinguished plantation owner as you wander through these grounds: with 50 hectares of banana trees, the estate is the oldest in the Canary Islands (it was established in 1572). It's still a working plantation, though chances are that manual labour will be the last thing on your mind during your stay. This is a place to relax, indulge, soak up the sun.

Ten years ago, the prominent Marquesado family decided to convert their colonial property into a luxurious rural hotel. There's a glorious sun-baked pool, shady verandas and comfy wicker sofas scattered about the terraces. Some rooms have wonderful views over the grounds - an astounding sea of green which envelops the hacienda's sweeping ochre-brick buildings. Sumptuous dinners are served in the old stables, and service is faultless - no banana skins here. The name holds true: this place is a great success.

Highs

• Expansive grounds set in a rolling rich-green sea of banana trees
• Pretty original features: wood-beam attics and wrought-iron beds
• Attentive and friendly staff, and a helpful English-speaking manageress
• Unusual-shaped pool with no shortage of sun-loungers (not much shade, though there are umbrellas)
• You're only 45 mins from the sandy (and popular) beaches of the south and 15 minutes to the seaside promenades of Las Palmas

Lows

• Recent reports of food, especially main courses, rather disappointing and menus unchanging throughout the week
• You might want to check that there is not a wedding planned during your visit, as it can take over the hotel
• Be sure to stock up on big bottles of water for the room – the mini-bar only has tiny, fizzy water bottles that don't do the trick in the heat