Hotel Villa Vik

Situated just west of Arrecife, the quiet residential suburb of Playa del Cable is where many of the capital's more affluent citizens have chosen to build their homes. One of the grandest of these private villas was converted a few years ago into a small, exclusive hotel for those seeking luxurious accommodation in the most intimate of atmospheres.

Built in typical Lanzarotean style, with whitewashed walls and extensive use of black lava stone, Villa Vik boasts just 14 rooms and suites. All are beautifully furnished and decorated, and naturally they all come equipped with satellite TV (limited English-language channels), direct dial telephone, complimentary safety deposit boxes, air-conditioning and minibars, as well as splendid en-suite bathrooms stocked with quality toiletries. The standard rooms all have balconies or terraces facing the pool and garden, whilst the suites have large enclosed - and thus very private - patios with Jacuzzis. Sockets for cabled internet access are provided in all the rooms, whilst there is free WiFi access in the reception and on the public terrace.

From the moment you arrive at Villa Vik, an air of elegance, discretion and tranquillity is evident. Walking through the public areas feels almost like visiting a gallery, for interesting pieces of art from the owner's private collection are on display throughout the building, and the stylish furnishings have been chosen to complement these art works. In the hotel's small restaurant - or on the adjacent terrace - a wholesome breakfast sets you up for the day, whilst you decide whether to spend the day exploring the island or just relaxing, cocooned in the privileged ambience of this exclusive retreat. In case of the latter, plenty of teak sun-loungers are provided by the large, heated swimming pool, whilst a rather clever feature of the lovingly tended gardens are the zocos, the traditional semi-circular lava stone walls used elsewhere on the island to protect vines from the wind.

When you can tear yourself away, it takes just a few of minutes to stroll down to the rocky shore, and from here it is just a 20-minute walk along a well-lit coastal footpath to Arrecife proper, and to the sandy Playa del Reducto. In the opposite direction, the same path leads via several other beaches past the airport all the way to the western end of Puerto del Carmen. The hotel also provides bicycles for its guests, so car hire is not essential for those simply planning a relaxing holiday with the odd foray into the nearby town, but those keen to explore further afield will want to hire their own transport. There is no need to drive in the evenings, however, as a daily-changing table d'hôte menu is served every evening. During the summer season, your holiday at Villa Vik automatically includes half board, whilst from November onwards the hotel also offers a B&B option for those who prefer to dine out in other local restaurants some of the time.