Perched above Puerto de la Cruz in northern Tenerife, the 134-year-old Gran Hotel Taoro has undergone a meticulous three-year restoration, transforming the property into a refined five-star retreat. While its original grandeur and architectural character have been respectfully preserved, the renewed Gran Hotel Taoro has been thoughtfully reimagined to meet expectations of today’s luxury traveller.
Gran Hotel Taoro originally opened in 1890 as Spain’s first grand luxury hotel and has a special place in the history of Spanish hospitality. Over the decades, it has welcomed European royalty, aristocrats, writers, and international travellers, including celebrated author Agatha Christie, who stayed in 1927, penning part The Mystery of the Blue Train during her visit and drawing inspiration from Tenerife’s striking landscapes.
The restoration has been overseen by Tropical Turística Canaria, part of My Way Hotels & Resorts, with Dragados leading the structural works. Acclaimed Canary Islands-based architects Virgilio Gutiérrez and Eustaquio Martínez directed the architectural preservation and renewal, ensuring that the building’s neoclassical character was retained. The interiors have been redesigned by Dishot Insular, led by Ana G-Anleo Velayos, bringing new life to the historic property with a design approach rooted in natural materials, contemporary elegance, and a deep sensitivity to the original structure.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Hotel Designs.
