Hotel Of The Week: Abama, Tenerife

Forget the crowded playas. Check into the Abama and you'll get a more sophisticated view of Tenerife

Tenerife isn't all about fish 'n' chips, sangria and white stilettos. These days it's courting a more sophisticated crowd with swish new high-quality hotels. One of this new breed is Abama, a luxurious stopover with a range of swanky facilities, including a golf course and academy and a spa from the designer of Thailand's fabulous Chiva Som. But while Abama has everything expected of a five-star hotel, it has rejected the trend for sleek concrete and glass, opting instead for a Moorish look.

The location

Set amid a banana plantation on the slopes of Mount Teide, 40 minutes from the main airport and barely a couple of miles from the beach.

The comfort factor

There are 300 rooms in the main building, a third of them suites. Many have large balconies looking out over the Atlantic and the beautiful green island of Gomera. Most rooms have huge beds. The terracotta tiles on the floors, strewn with rugs, and the exotic plants and dark wood furnishings keep the Moroccan theme going inside.

The bathroom

Bathrooms are equipped with deep baths, walk-in showers and double basins. A generous selection of Hermès toiletries is provided, as are Abama slippers.

The food and drink

Abama offers gastronomy from around the world. A three-star Michelin chef is in charge at the El Patio fine dining restaurant, which features a tasting menu at €90 (£61) per head. Dinner with wine in one of the other restaurants will cost about €100 for two. There are three bars, including the Tanganika for cocktails and a quieter piano bar.

The people

Discerning British and Spanish families. Ladies after a dose of pampering in the spa, men who want to play some serious golf.

The area

You are on the edge of the greenest part of the island. The Teno peninsula is a short drive, where you can spot whales, or climb Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak. Hop on a cable car (€22) and you can reach the summit - 2,000m above sea level - in eight minutes.

The access

Disabled access. Children and pets welcome.

The damage

Double rooms from €350 per night. One-bedroom suites from €700, two-bedroom suites from €950. Children under six stay free and from seven to 11 pay 50 per cent of the rate when sharing their parents' room.

The address

Abama, Carretera General TF-47, km-9, C P 38687 Playa San Juan, Tenerife (00 34 9 221 26000; abamahotel resort.com).

The writer flew courtesy of British Airways (0870 850 9850; ba.com), which offers return flights to Tenerife from £210