TRAVEL
and creativity, all without losing its warmth. By the time dessert arrived- a deconstructed tiramisu with flavours that lingered like a gentle aria- I was convinced that Il Bocconcino alone would be reason enough to stay.
While Michelin stars shine brightly, there’ s something deeply compelling about Starfish, the resort’ s restaurant that champions sustainability and‘ 0 km’ dining, meaning almost everything on your plate is sourced from the island itself. The menu is a love letter to Tenerife- freshly caught Atlantic fish grilled to perfection, vegetables plucked from local farms and dishes that honour the island’ s culinary traditions while presenting them in a modern, refined style.
What struck me most was the integrity of it. Every ingredient tasted alive, vibrant and connected to the land or sea from which it came. Dining at Starfish felt like a reminder of what food should be- honest, sustainable and deeply rooted in place.
On the final evening of the stay, I dined at one-Michelin star San Hô. Its philosophy of‘ borderless cuisine’ takes inspiration from the Atlantic Rim- the cuisines of Peru, Japan and Spain- weaving them together with exquisite precision. The result is an astonishing 12-course journey that celebrates Canarian produce while telling a global story.
Each course was a revelation. Delicate sashimi reimagined with Canarian tuna, smoky notes that hinted at the island’ s volcanic soil, and ceviche elevated by citrus grown under the island’ s sunshine. Flavours danced between umami, acidity and subtle sweetness, each bite layered with intent and artistry. The wine pairings were equally masterful, showcasing both international labels and standout local vintages that reminded me just how underappreciated Canary Island wines are.
Spanning the entire evening from 8pm until midnight, it was quite simply one of the finest dining experiences I have ever had.
As if two Michelin-starred restaurants weren’ t enough, the Royal Hideaway Corales is also home to El Rincón de Juan Carlos, a two-Michelin-starred dining temple led by the renowned Padrón brothers. Their cuisine is a masterclass in refinement, creativity and respect for the island’ s heritage; the perfect crescendo to the resort’ s unparalleled gastronomic repertoire.
Outside the restaurants, the pace slows.
Mornings begin with long breakfasts overlooking the ocean, afternoons with rooftop swims or spa treatments inspired by the sea. The resort also encourages guests to explore the island, and trips to Mount Teide and local vineyards reminded me how varied and surprising Tenerife can be.
Another of the resort’ s strengths is how thoughtfully it’ s divided: a wing for families, full of activities and facilities, and another reserved just for adults. It means both couples and families find exactly what they’ re looking for, without compromise.
By the time I left, I realised Tenerife had given me much more than I expected. I’ d come for sun and sea, but I left with memories of extraordinary meals, volcanic landscapes and a hotel that feels more like a destination than a base.
The Royal Hideaway Corales Resort isn’ t just one of the best places to stay in Tenerife, it sets a standard for luxury resorts across Europe.
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