Hotel Botánico: Best 5-Star Luxury Hotel 2026
Nestled in the lush north coast of Tenerife, Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden stands as a timeless 5-star sanctuary blending European elegance with profound Thai-inspired serenity. As a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World since 1998, this Gran Lujo property offers more than just luxury -it's a full immersion into 25,000 m² of exotic subtropical gardens, an award-winning 3,500 m² Oriental Spa often hailed as one of Europe's finest, and refined accommodations with ocean and Teide views. In 2026, with its recent renovations and unwavering focus on wellness, sustainability, and tranquility, it remains the premier choice for those seeking a peaceful, nature-immersed escape away from Tenerife's busier southern resorts. Whether you're a couple craving deep relaxation or a solo traveler in need of reset, this review dives into why Hotel Botánico feels like a private botanical haven with world-class spa magic.
My stay at the Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden in Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife felt like stepping into a serene subtropical sanctuary with a strong Thai inspired elegance. This 5 star Gran Lujo the highest luxury rating property a member of The Leading Hotels of the World since 1998 sits in the quieter La Paz area of Puerto de la Cruz on the north coast. It's right next to the famous Jardín Botánico Botanical Garden and surrounded by its own 25000 square meters of lush exotic gardens full of over 200 plant species bonsai corners a serene swan lake with black swans and koi carp gliding around waterfalls and hidden paths that make wandering feel meditative.
Arrival and Check In I arrived mid afternoon. The entrance sets the tone immediately a chic renovated façade in light grey and white with panoramic windows and a revamped reception featuring a massive aquarium with moon jellyfish that shift colors rose pink purple gold yellow under soft lighting plus an eye catching ceiling installation of 1800 floating crystals over a huge amethyst.
Check in was smooth and personal staff offered a welcome herbal infusion or cava and they had my details ready. The hotel is family friendly overall but it has an exclusive adults only wing for certain room categories which adds a layer of tranquility if you book into those.
The Room I stayed in a Superior Deluxe Ocean View in the adults only wing spacious recently renovated with a Far Eastern touch rich fabrics vintage textures silk accents and antique inspired furniture. The king bed was incredibly comfortable with high thread count linens and the bathroom featured Italian marble dual sinks a deep tub rain shower and premium amenities. Floor to ceiling windows overlooked the Atlantic and distant Teide views on clear days plus a private balcony perfect for morning coffee. Smart TV fast fiber optic WiFi USB ports everywhere and thoughtful touches like a pillow menu and aromatherapy options made it feel refined rather than flashy.
The Oriental Spa Garden The Absolute Highlight This is what the hotel is famous for a 3500 square meter award winning spa often called the best in Europe and the Mediterranean immersed in subtropical gardens. It's a true universe of sensations with a strong Thai influence. The thermal circuit is complimentary for guests and includes an indoor outdoor pool Japanese sauna Turkish bath ice temple a chilling contrast after heat whirlpools hydrotherapy jets and unique features like underground music in relaxation areas and garden waterbeds for floating massages. I spent hours there alternating between the sauna steam and ice fountain then lounging on outdoor loungers surrounded by tropical plants. Treatments are next level I booked an 80 minute massage with warm volcanic basalt stones from the Canaries combined with golden oils and sacred flower fragrances the therapist used ancient techniques blended with innovative tech and I emerged feeling completely reset. There are also alfresco Thai pagoda cabins for outdoor massages under golden roofs rose petal baths and exotic sand scrubs. The team of nearly 30 professionals is highly skilled and the whole area has that hushed aromatic calm with pipe music drifting through the gardens.
Gardens and Grounds The 25000 square meter Botánico Gardens are a standout not just manicured lawns but a living collection with banana trees exotic palms bonsai and a koi filled lake. Paths wind through shaded spots ideal for reading or napping with lighting that makes evenings magical. It's like having a private botanical escape peaceful bird filled and perfect for recharging amid nature.
Dining The hotel has four à la carte restaurants plus more casual options. Breakfast was extensive and excellent fresh local fruits papaya gofio artisanal breads smoked salmon made to order eggs and a quiet buffet area with ocean views. I loved La Belle Époque for Mediterranean Italian great pastas and seafood and the Asian inspired spot for sushi and wok dishes with Thai flavors. The international restaurant offered variety and everything felt high quality with attentive service. Drinks can be pricey inside but nearby Puerto de la Cruz has affordable bars a short walk away.
Overall Vibe and Unique Touches The atmosphere is elegant tranquility with oriental elegance think bamboo accents silks and a blend of European luxury and Thai serenity. It's not adults only throughout families are welcome in main areas but the adults only wing and spa provide escape pockets. Art collection throughout local and Asian pieces sustainability focus and thoughtful details like the jellyfish aquarium or library with pool tables and sports TV add character. Puerto de la Cruz location means easy access to black sand beaches Loro Parque zoo and the historic town center free shuttle available but the hotel itself is so immersive you might not leave much.
It's a peaceful nature immersed luxury retreat rather than a beach party spot perfect for wellness couples or anyone seeking calm with top tier spa facilities. The Oriental Spa Garden alone makes it special I'd return for another deep reset amid the gardens and Teide views. Highly recommend if you want refined Canarian luxury with an exotic twist.
