Historic Restoration Brings New Life to Iconic 19th Century Property recalling Memories of Yesteryear when it was frequented by European Royalty and Aristocracy, Poets and Writers including King Alfonso XIII, the Duke of Kent and Agatha Christie
The historic Gran Hotel Taoro, Spain’s first luxury grand hotel, will reopen its doors as a five-star urban resort in spring 2025 following an extensive three-year renovation project after 50 years of closure. The 134-year-old property, owned by the Cabildo of Tenerife, will be managed by My Way Hotels & Resorts, which currently operates other luxury properties in Tenerife including Las Terrazas de Abama Suites and Los Jardines de Abama Suites.
“This property is more than a piece of history; it has long been part of the identity of Puerto de la Cruz, a beloved landmark for the people of Tenerife,” said Gustavo Escobar, General Manager at Gran Hotel Taoro. “Following an extensive and meticulous renovation, it is set to reopen in the spring of 2025, ready to recapture its original splendour, glamour and sophistication – a chic meeting point and ‘the place to be.’ It’s an honour to be leading what was the first large luxury hotel in Spain to open its doors in the nineteenth century. We are creating a new benchmark on the island for luxury experiences with unique architecture, an exceptional location, notable gastronomic offer, sumptuous gardens, and the perfect base to discover the authentic Tenerife.”
Location and Rooms
Located on a hilltop overlooking Puerto de la Cruz, the restored hotel will feature 199 rooms and suites, with Presidential Suites in the towers, each providing a careful balance between historical elegance and contemporary comfort. The renovation has preserved the building’s original neoclassical architecture while incorporating modern amenities and colonial interior design elements. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of Mount Teide, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains from both their rooms and the hotel’s expansive terraces, and a watchtower.
Culinary Excellence
Gran Hotel Taoro aims to establish itself as a distinguished culinary destination in northern Tenerife, with multiple dining venues led by acclaimed national chefs. Each of the three restaurants will offer unique gastronomic experiences crafted to provide memorable culinary journeys.
Wellness and Relaxation
The hotel will be home to the Sandara Wellness & Spa Taoro, offering guests a luxurious retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. This new wellness centre adds to the hotel’s comprehensive luxury offerings. A fitness centre also offers panoramic views and the latest Tehnogym equipment.
Guest Services
A standout feature of the hotel’s service offering is the exclusive X-Plora concept, delivered by a dedicated concierge team. This bespoke service will design and execute unique activities both within and beyond the hotel grounds in the island’s charming villages and natural wonders, providing guests with exclusive experiences unavailable elsewhere in Tenerife.
Business and Events
The hotel’s adjoining Congress Centre will cater to high-level conferences and meetings, making it an ideal destination for both leisure, wedding and business travellers. Historic themed spaces, including the Agatha Christie and Humboldt meeting rooms, pay homage to the property’s distinguished past guests and cultural legacy.
Rich Historical Legacy
Throughout its illustrious history, Gran Hotel Taoro has hosted numerous distinguished guests, including the Duke of Kent, King Alfonso XIII, and celebrated author Agatha Christie. During her stay in 1927, Christie wrote part of her novel “The Mystery of the Blue Train” and found inspiration in the island’s landscapes for her short story “The Man from the Sea.”
The property holds particular significance in British-Tenerife relations, representing a vital chapter in the evolution of the island’s tourism in the late 19thand early 20th centuries. These connections were initially established through historic trade links, primarily in wine and banana exports, which helped create the infrastructure that enabled the opening of luxury hotels like the Taoro.
Sustainability and Innovation
“Beyond its valuable legacy, architecture, and luxurious offerings, the hotel is also defined by its commitment to sustainability and innovation, merging tradition with modernity to provide a truly exceptional experience,” added Escobar. The restoration project demonstrates this commitment through careful preservation of historical elements while incorporating contemporary sustainable practices.
Outdoor Spaces and Gardens
The hotel features outdoor spaces with stunning panoramic views, accessible from the moment guests arrive in the lobby. The property’s French gardens, featuring lush vegetation and exotic plants, provide a tranquil setting that has been carefully maintained throughout the restoration process.
Bookings for Spring 2025 onwards are now live at https://granhoteltaoro.com/en/ Rates starting from 290€ on a BB basis.
