La Isla Y El Mar

Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote, Spain

The moment you step into the glass-walled lobby of La Isla y El Mar, you'll be able to see how beautifully it sits in the landscape and respects it.

This boutique five star adult only hotel is on a hillside overlooking the sea, with low-rise buildings arranged on terraces that drop away gently from the entrance.

Grey-stone, white-washed, mirrored structures are interspersed with patches of greenery - palm trees and banana plants set in black volcanic pebbles - and vast boulders have been left in situ as a reminder of Lanzarote's dramatic scenery. It's all supremely cool, intimate and harmonious.

The hotel's chic design isn't solely about respecting the immediate environment, but the environment in general. Sustainability is taken seriously here, so they use geothermal energy to power the air-conditioning, intelligent systems to control the lighting and all manner of clever ways to minimise water use.

All this has earned La Isla y El Mar an A energy rating and a UNESCO-backed BioSmart certification. Not that guests will be aware of all this as they chill out in the two pools (one with massage jets), indulge in a soothing ritual in the small spa or soak up the ocean panoramas from their private terrace. It's just there in the background

The hotel's light and airy buffet restaurant is a perfect spot in which to start the day, with a wide choice of international breakfast favourites; it's also open for dinner, where there's the same emphasis on quality fresh produce and global influences.

An evening alternative is Kentia Gourmet Club, where you can enjoy everything from tapas and cocktails to more avant-garde creations in an eclectic African-themed setting.

Pool Bar Flamingo is open during the day for drinks and snacks overlooking the water; even more laid back is the Chill Out Bar, whose terrace is just the place to unwind with a glass of wine and something light to eat.

Discover an array of facilities and treatments dedicated to your well-being at the Health and Beauty Centre. From rejuvenating beauty rituals to therapeutic massages and personalised treatments featuring the latest trends, to cater to your every need.

Unwind in the spa or engage in a workout session at the gym before indulging in the massage jets of the dynamic pool.

Just a short distance from La Isla y el Mar you'll discover one of the Canary Islands' premier golf courses, crafted by renowned architect Ron Kirby. The course's gentle hills harmonise with the volcanic surroundings, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Fuerteventura island.

Cycling enthusiasts can delight in Lanzarote's diverse routes and mountain passes, providing an opportunity to explore the island's captivating volcanic landscape.

The 81 generously proportioned suites wouldn't look out of place in an interiors magazine. They are decorated in a sophisticated palette of soft greys punctuated by touches of mauve, green or turquoise, with stylish, modern designer furniture and sleek bathrooms featuring volcanic stone walls.