Hotel Jardin Tecina

This hotel offers a unique and memorable experience, characterized by its stunning cliff-top location and village-like architectural design, which integrates seamlessly with its extensive botanical gardens. Guests are consistently impressed by the tranquil atmosphere and the breathtaking sea views. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a relaxing escape, families who appreciate varied activities and dedicated kids' entertainment, and golfers looking for a challenging course with scenic vistas. Active travelers will also find ample opportunities for sports and wellness. To make the most of your stay, consider booking a room in a recently renovated section and be prepared for the hotel's terraced layout, which involves some slopes and steps.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts a wide array of facilities designed to enhance the guest experience. Guests can enjoy several swimming pools, including a large main pool, a children's pool (though some found the new play tower an eyesore), and an exclusive adult-only pool area. The gardens are meticulously maintained and widely praised for their beauty and variety. For sports enthusiasts, there are excellent tennis facilities, a well-regarded golf course with convenient transfers, and a comprehensive gym offering various classes and equipment. The spa receives mixed feedback, with some guests enjoying the facilities, while others noted a lack of staff for massages or issues with non-functioning jets. A unique feature is the cliff elevator providing direct access to the beach and lower-level restaurants, adding to the hotel's charm and convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Following a recent renovation, many guests found the rooms to be new, comfortable, and clean, often featuring spacious bathrooms and walk-in showers. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, feedback on room comfort is mixed, as some guests reported being allocated unrenovated rooms which were perceived as old, tired, or dark, with outdated bathrooms and worn fixtures. Some reviews mentioned issues with leaking showers, poor ventilation, or unpleasant odors (such as drains or mustiness). A few guests also reported encountering insects in their rooms. Housekeeping service varied, with some finding it excellent and attentive, while others experienced superficial cleaning or a lack of replenished supplies.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive varied feedback. The main buffet restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes for both breakfast and dinner, with changing themes and show cooking, and many guests found the food to be of good quality and fresh. However, some guests found the buffet to be crowded and noisy, with food sometimes served lukewarm, and noted a lack of variety in breakfast options, particularly regarding fish. The à la carte restaurants, such as Club Laurel and La Trattoria, are generally highly praised for their delicious tasting menus and pleasant atmosphere. Conversely, the Gara restaurant received mixed reviews, with some guests finding its menu uninspiring or service lacking. A common point of contention is that bottled water is not included with meals and must be purchased, which some guests found inconvenient given the hotel's price point.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a fantastic cliff-top location that provides spectacular sea views and a sense of tranquility. It is conveniently situated just a short distance from the airport and offers easy access to the charming town of Playa Santiago, which can be reached via a pleasant walk or the hotel's unique cliff elevator. This elevator also provides access to the beach and some of the hotel's restaurants located at the lower levels. While the location is highly praised, guests should be aware that the hotel grounds are built on a steep terrain, featuring numerous slopes and steps, which may pose challenges for guests with mobility issues. A large parking area is available for those arriving by car.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professional demeanor. Many guests highlighted the attentive service provided across all departments, from reception to restaurant staff and the animation team. The animation team is particularly commended for their engaging and varied activities, including sports, fitness classes, and entertaining evening shows, which significantly enhance the guest experience. While most interactions are positive, some guests reported mixed experiences with the check-in process, occasionally encountering long queues or minor issues with booking systems. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing excellent service is a recurring theme, contributing significantly to guests' satisfaction.

Additional Information
A significant highlight of the hotel's evening entertainment is the talented resident pianist, Anne-Tina, who is widely celebrated for her captivating performances and ability to play a diverse repertoire, making her a strong reason for many guests to return. The hotel recently underwent a major renovation, which has updated many areas, though some guests noted that certain finishes still appeared rushed. Guests should be aware that bottled water is not provided free of charge in rooms or at meals, and there is an extra charge for spa access. Some long-time guests expressed disappointment that the new management has done away with previously designated non-smoking room areas. The hotel's restaurant booking system and room key cards occasionally presented IT issues, requiring staff assistance.