Holiday Time Hotel

Holiday Time Hotel

, Avenida Marítima 33, Santa Cruz de la Palma, La Palma.

The slightly oddly-named Holiday Time Hotel (or Hotel Emblemático Holiday Time) is a boutique hotel right on the Paseo Marítimo in the centre of Santa Cruz. Straight in front is a broad beach of black sand and behind is the quaint old town with its fascinating architecture and cobbled streets.

The day starts with an ample buffet breakfast in typical Spanish style, and could end with a visit to the bar. There are lots of restaurants in the town for other meals and each floor of the hotel has a small guest area for making drinks, etc.

All the bedrooms are similarly styled with a calming cream colour scheme accented by grey tiled floors. Rooms at the front overlook the beach and those on the top floor have a private balcony facing the sea. At the back the rooms have a view of the old town and the nearby plaza. Facilities include en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, safe-deposit box and a television. A courtesy room is provided for late departures with a shower and even bunk beds for a quick nap before a flight.

Behind Santa Cruz the land rises steeply to the highest part of the island and the famous Caldera de Taburiente. Winding roads full of hairpin bends will carry you to many of the most spectacular features, while walkers can press on to see others that are denied to the car-bound. (Nervous drivers need not worry as the roads are adequately wide and well protected.)