Idyll Suites

Adults seeking a supremely comfortable base for a thoroughly relaxing holiday on Gran Canaria's sunny south-west coast should look no further than the recently opened Idyll Suites. Situated halfway between Puerto de Mogan with its picturesque marina and the larger and livelier resort of Puerto Rico, Playa del Cura is a small, quiet resort of around a dozen hotels and apartment complexes hugging the hillsides around a natural, crescent-shape beach of fine dark sand.

Opened in late 2016, Idyll Suites occupy an ideal position less than 150 metres from the beach, just across the coast road. Whilst they are sufficiently elevated for each suite to enjoy lovely ocean views from its terrace, the incline walking back from the beach is reasonably gentle compared to other accommodation in Playa del Cura, and the suites themselves are accessible by two lifts.

The 49 spacious suites are spread across six linked buildings and offer accommodation of an excellent standard, attractively decorated in Mediterranean style. Each has a comfortable living-dining room with satellite TV (limited English-language channels), a modern open-plan kitchen area with fridge, 2-ring ceramic hob, microwave oven, kettle, toaster and coffee-maker, a separate bedroom with twin beds or a double bed, and a mosaic-tiled shower room with a walk-in shower, double washbasin, WC, bidet and hairdryer. Quality mattresses and high thread-count organic cotton sheets ensure a comfortable night's sleep, while ceiling fans and a special natural ventilation system have been installed to eliminate the need for air-conditioning. A small local charge applies for the use of the safety-deposit boxes, whilst WiFi is provided free of charge for one device per guest. Each suite also has a large (18 sq metre) south-east facing terrace with a table and chair for dining al fresco, two sun-loungers, a retractable canvas awning for your choice of sun or shade, and last but not least, views of the sea and the coastline. Superior Suites are situated on the higher floors and thus offer the most panoramic views, but apart from this the layout and facilities are identical.

Whilst the suites' individual terrace provide plenty of space for soaking up the rays, the communal pool area is just as enticing and - thanks to the property's adult-only policy - just as relaxing. The large infinity swimming pool is heated to a temperature of 24 degrees C during the winter season, and incorporates massage jets at one end. The spacious sun terrace is stocked with ample sun-loungers, and pool towels and mattresses are provided free of charge to allow you to sunbathe in comfort. There are also a number of Balinese beds which can be reserved for a local charge.

Idyll Suites are available on self-catering or bed-and-breakfast basis, with a wholesome buffet laid on each morning for those choosing the latter option. Those who prefer to self-cater will find Playa del Cura's small shopping centre with its supermarket and pharmacy right next door. Whilst Playa del Cura does not boast any notable nightlife, there are also a couple of bars and around half a dozen restaurants within walking distance. Idyll Suites' own restaurant, Delicias, is considered one of the best in the resort, and guests staying at the suites are entitled to a discount off their bill (please note this is closed on Sundays).

The local bus stop and taxi rank are equally close by. Regular buses passing through Playa del Cura cover the short distance to Puerto de Mogan to the north, and run south through the larger resorts of Puerto Rico, Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles all the way to he island capital Las Palmas in the north-east of the island, making this an ideal base for those who enjoy exploring on public transport. Numerous other beaches can also easily be reached by bus - or even on foot it you don't mind a bit of a hike - including the sheltered, man-made Playa de Amadores with its soft pale sand of crushed sea shells. Golfers will find the Anfi Tauro golf course less than 2 km away, and for those who choose to hire a car in order to explore the island in more depth, Idyll Suites provides free underground parking.

Other facilities include a laundry room with washing machines and tumble dryers, available for a small local charge. Maid service is provided 5 days a week, with towels and linen changed as requested. A credit card pre-authorisation or cash deposit is required at check-in as a security against breakages.

Idyll Suites' surprisingly modest official 3-star rating is due to factors such as the absence of air-conditioning and the fact that reception is not open 24 hours, but in our opinion the quality and spaciousness of the accommodation, the level of service and the peaceful ambience are all deserving of a higher rating, so we are happy to recommend these suites to anyone seeking a quiet, convenient and comfortable base in one of the island's most reliable climate zones.