Built and decorated in an elegant Canarian colonial style, La Plantación del Sur is a stylish hotel with a serene setting above the hustle and bustle of the beachfront area. Although it features solid kid-friendly amenities, the property is mostly popular with couples who want to spend some relaxing days in the sun. The lobby -- an airy space decorated with elegant colonial-style furnishings in muted tones, lots of wood accents, homey touches, and heavy cotton curtains -- sets the vibe for a classy, peaceful stay. The property is smaller than most of the neighboring hotels, many of which are upper-middle-range and upscale all-inclusives, and the vibe is quieter and more relaxing here, with beautiful, lush grounds, and lovely pool decks. Rooms have a similar feel, with colonial decor, clay floor tiles, old black-and-white photos on walls, and stylish wicker accents.

The resort is located on a hill a short walk from Playa del Duque, one of Costa Adeje’s best beaches. The area is mostly residential, but restaurants, shops, and bars can be found within a few blocks, and there are a couple of large shopping malls within walking distance. Guests looking to explore other beaches can take a cab or drive to Las Américas, Los Cristianos, or La Caleta, all less than a 15-minute drive away. And those who prefer to use public transportation can take a bus to all of the area’s main beaches. Famous Fañabé Beach -- known for its dark sand -- can be reached by strolling along the boardwalk. And Tenerife Sur Airport can be reached by car in 20 minutes, and by bus in about an hour. There's a bus stop a five-minute walk from the main entrance of the hotel.

Decorated with heavy wooden furniture, cream-color accents, clay tiles, and wicker touches, rooms are elegant and stylish, and evoke the sleeping quarters of grand Spanish colonial mansions. Bathrooms are large and upscale, with double sinks, hotel-brand toiletries, deep soaking tubs, and separate stalls for the showers and toilets. Flat-screen TVs, minibars, pillow menus, furnished balconies (some with ocean views), and safes are all standard amenities, and all rooms are large enough for at least a small seating area with a couch and coffee table in each. Some rooms have romantic canopy beds, outdoor whirlpools, and spacious terraces with wicker padded loungers. Villas also feature hydromassage shower cabins, and deep soaking tubs.

One of the best features at Plantación del Sur is its spa, complete with 16 treatment cabins, two thermal areas -- including one in a volcanic cave -- and salon services. Those who want a more active stay can book the paddle courts or have a full workout at the large, bright fitness center, which offers Pilates, yoga, and other group classes year-round. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offering ocean views, the main pool deck is an appealing spot for a low-key day. It features three large pools and a smaller, shallower one for children. Those traveling with kids may find the Miniclub and the family-friendly entertainment convenient. There are two main dining options on-site: a casual buffet with outdoor seating, and an a la carte restaurant serving regional cuisine in a stylish space with attractive wooden ceilings. The hotel also offers flexible meeting space with audiovisual equipment and secretarial services, and great freebies, including on-site parking and shuttle service to the beach.