Hotel EL GRIFO

Caserio de Mozaga, Mozaga, Lanzarote, Canary Islands - Explore & Book

"This elegantly rustic 18th-century house has been in the same family for 200 years. Old cart wheels lean against whitewashed walls, a chandelier hangs from the sitting room ceiling, and a rattan sofa waits in the shade of the cloister. You enter through smart gates into a peaceful courtyard which faces south to ensure one corner always gets the sun. Ornate guttering draws rain from the rooftops into the well, and the feel here is smartly rural, as if this was the house of well-to-do farmers (which it is). Woodwork is painted dark green, bougainvillea flames against white walls, and candles embedded in glass jars flicker at night. The 11 rooms and suites are traditionally decorated with original furniture and family antiques. Expect cast-iron beds, terracotta-tiled floors, old oil paintings and shuttered windows. Some rooms open onto the courtyard, others onto the lovely garden, both dotted with places where you can sit back and relax. Best of all is the restaurant. The food here is glorious and those who wish to feast like a king will be in heaven. Highs Good food in the on-site restaurant; it’s one of the best in the area The age-old beauty of the place, especially the central courtyard Maria Luisa, who runs her old family home with an easy charm and shares plenty of personal furnishings The hushed, elegant ambiance; it feels like being welcomed into the summer residence of a Canarian aristocrat The central setting - ideal for exploring Lanzarote's beguiling mix of wistful landscapes, volcanic peaks and jaw-loosening beaches Lows Breakfast is a fairly simple spread The chef has changed since our initial visit, and we have yet to sample the new menu. Also the restaurant is only open for dinner No swimming pool, but beaches are easily accessible by car The rooms are refined and comfortable but rather basic - stay elsewhere if you want 5-star luxury Not recommended for families with energetic children, who might shatter the profound tranquility of the place - or for anyone looking for nightlife" - Tom Bell