Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas

Across the sand dunes stands a low white palace, shimmering like a mirage – it’s the Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas. This superb five-star hotel overlooks the famous undulating sands of Playa Del Ingles on Gran Canaria – and with its palm trees and sapphire pools it is more like the desert oasis of an Arabian prince than a bucket-and-spade holiday. Amid terraces and gardens, there are two huge pools, a whirlpool, waterbeds, waterfalls and a separate children’s pool; add to that tennis courts, a wellness centre, gym, sauna and whirlpool, along with a selection of shops and a beauty salon. The beach is 800 metres away across the dunes – a marked path will show you the way.

Inside, the Riu Palace is a combination of cool elegance and warm opulence; the service here is first class and you will feel completely indulged throughout your stay. The main restaurant combines buffet and waiter service in classically refined surroundings, while the contemporary Crystal Fusion restaurant serves delicious a la carte. The bedrooms enjoy sumptuous furnishings with stylish period detailing – but of course there are plenty of mod cons such as flat screen satellite TV, air conditioning, minibar and all of them have a balcony or a terrace. The centre of Playa Del Ingles is two kilometres away.