Parador Conde de La Gomera

Offering an excellent level of comfort in stylish surroundings, combined with a superb location and fabulous views, the Parador Conde de la Gomera is one of the jewels in the crown of the renowned Paradores group. This very handsome building was designed along the lines of a traditional Canarian mansion with such attention to detail that visitors are often surprised to discover that it is actually of relatively recent construction.

Together with the fabulous cliff-top location just above the harbour of the small island capital, San Sebastián, it gives the impression of an old fortress guarding the harbour and many an hour can be idled away relaxing in the sub-tropical gardens, watching the coming and going of boats or simply gazing across the sea to mighty Mount Teide on the neighbouring island of Tenerife.

Recently renovated, the 60 guestrooms are very spacious and beautifully furnished in a classic style befitting the hotel's overall ambience. Each has all the amenities you would expect to find in a four-star hotel, including air-conditioning, ceiling fans, mini-bars, satellite TV, telephone, safety deposit boxes and modern en suite bathrooms with hairdryers. Superior rooms with balconies or terraces and sea views can be requested at a supplement.

The public areas are equally elegant, and the hotel's restaurant has a very intimate atmosphere, as well as an reputation reputation for its cuisine. In the mornings, a generous buffet breakfast is presented here, whilst for dinner, guests opting for the half-board option may choose from the delicious table d'hôte menu, served at the table. After dinner, there are several inviting lounges to relax in, linger over a drink from the bar or just chat to your fellow guests.

A 15 - 20 minute walk downhill takes you to the centre of San Sebastián, where there are a few more restaurants, cafés, bars and shops, as well as the bus station, for those wishing to explore a bit of the island without having to hire a car. The nearest beach is a similar distance, although many guests prefer to stick to the hotel's freshwater swimming pool, in order to make the most of the spectacular panoramic views. The walk back from the town to the hotel is uphill and quite steep in parts, but taxis are fairly inexpensive.