As new parents, prioritizing self-care is essential, and a thoughtfully planned holiday can provide the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate. When our daughter was 8 months old—she's now 15—we stayed at the Hollywood Mirage in Los Cristianos, Tenerife. Reflecting on our experience, we've also researched current offerings to provide you with up-to-date insights for your family getaway.
Accommodation and Amenities
The Hollywood Mirage is situated in the heart of Urbanización Oasis del Sur, adjacent to the popular tourist spot of Los Cristianos in the south of Tenerife - Canary Islands. The resort offers spacious apartments equipped with kitchenettes, allowing for the preparation of baby-friendly meals at any time.
Our apartment featured a lovely balcony, providing a serene space to unwind during our child's naps. The kitchen was well-appointed, though it's advisable to purchase essentials like salt and pepper, as these were not provided. While the appliances were adequate, there was no dishwasher available.
The resort's staff were extremely friendly and helpful, ensuring a comfortable stay. The maid service was fantastic, with daily cleaning that kept our space immaculate. The on-site grocery store was convenient for basic necessities, and for a broader selection, a SPAR supermarket was a 10-minute walk away. However, the uphill return can be challenging with groceries in tow, and taxis were not always readily available, though calling for one is an option.
Family-Friendly Services
The Hollywood Mirage caters well to families with young children. Upon request, we received a baby cot, high chair, bottle warmer, and diaper disposal bags, which significantly eased our stay. The resort features two lovely pools and at least one restaurant within the complex. The restaurant offered a great dining experience, and for a fee of 15 Euros per week (which may have increased since our visit), guests could access the gym, sauna, squash courts, and receive pool towels—a worthwhile package for those interested in these amenities.
Transportation and Accessibility
During our stay, the resort did not offer a shuttle service to and from Tenerife airport, resulting in a 25 Euro taxi fare to reach the hotel. However, the resort provided a convenient shuttle service to the beach, with a frequency that suited our schedule. The approximately 10-minute ride was pleasant and free from traffic issues at the time.
Dining and Local Cuisine
Alcoholic beverages at the beach were affordably priced, and the food was decent. However, we advise caution when selecting restaurants that claim to be "the best" in various cuisines, as our experience with a self-proclaimed top Mexican restaurant was disappointing.
Excursions and Activities
A highlight was the unique black sand on the beach, offering a distinctive experience.
While the resort's front desk staff were helpful, we recommend conducting personal research before embarking on excursions with an infant. For instance, a trip to Mount Teide proved challenging due to the high elevation, which our baby struggled with. Additionally, a whale and dolphin watching boat ride was marred by unexpectedly choppy waves, despite assurances to the contrary. These experiences taught us the importance of carefully considering the suitability of activities for young children.
Additional Considerations
The resort's laundry facilities were on the pricier side, with a single wash and dry cycle costing 8 Euros. As light packers, we found this expense notable. On a positive note, local wines were inexpensive—just be mindful to enjoy them in moderation!
Overall, our stay at the Hollywood Mirage provided a much-needed retreat, allowing us to recharge and enjoy quality family time. Tenerife's unique culture and landscapes offer a wonderful backdrop for creating lasting memories. We encourage new parents to consider such a getaway as a valuable component of self-care.
For a visual overview of the resort, you might find this recent review helpful: