The Marie Claire Beauty Team discovers the European island that is your answer to guaranteed sun. Words by Sarah Barnes
Nestled in the town of Playa Blanca, the Princesa Yaiza Resort is a luxury escape with never ending pools and fresh seafood night after night. Just pack your case and book a flight!
Why go
Everything you could possibly want and need for a week of relaxation is right here. Constant sunshine in the high 20s lets you swim, spa, dine and drink away your holiday while getting that much needed Vitamin D that we call crave- in a big resort that has a small family feel.
Just a short drive from the airport and already your muscles will be relaxing and brain fog disappearing as friendly staff check you in, hand over a refreshing drink and whisk away your luggage.
What’s involved
Unpack your summer wardrobe in one of the spacious rooms or suites available – all decked out in contemporary Canarian-style with plump beds and pillows that will have you sleeping for more than eight hours (gasp).
The hotel itself is a warren of tunnels and passages that transport you around the resort before you step out onto well-groomed grounds and bright white washed walls- sunglasses on.
Then, head straight to the vast pools for hours of tanning and floating or to the sandy beach and promenade to wonder along in the sun. Just remember to rehydrate hourly with poolside cocktails.
Where to eat
Gorge till you’re full to the brim at one of the hotel restaurants, with four à la carte and three buffets, you can dine differently every day. Spanish tapas, Italian pasta, Japanese fish and Mediterranean salad options are all available for you to feast on.
A must try is the Isla fe Loboas, the gourmet restaurant that spans the ocean terrace serving up traditional cuisine sourced locally with a beautiful view to match.
You really must:
1. Book yourself in at the Thalasso and Spa Centre for an afternoon of pampering
The pool itself is a must see. A meeting point in-between the saunas and wet rooms with a starry ceiling so that you feel as if you are floating in a galaxy.
50 treatment booths offer full body experiences to combat fatigue, stress and re-energising. You will be treated to magnesium massages, calcium mud wraps and head-to-toe exfoliation, leaving with your head in the clouds and your body like jelly.
2. Remember it’s 6pm somewhere and there is no wrong time of day to order cocktails
Relax in the Mararia bar with sprawling wicker sofas and marble pillars away from the mid-day heat with a mojito in hand.
Then after dark, the low lit 4 Lunas bar, just steps away, serves up fruity drinks while you soak up the live performances from local artists, way into the night.
3. Let your kids explore Kikoland
The hotel is completely family friendly with beach volley, football pitches, tennis courts and a play area all mapped out for children to run free in.
As well as the multitude of swimming pools to splash around, there is a amphitheatre for music shows and themed parties too.
Rates for a Basic Superior Room at Princesa Yaiza start from £169 per night including a buffet breakfast, based on two people sharing.
For further details or to book your escape, visit www.princesayaiza.com or call 0034 928 519 300.
