We had high expectations on this apartment, and we were not disappointed. Gaetans lovely apartment was even more than we expected, and we loved every second of our vacation here.
The location of the apartment is excellent - close enough to El Médano center but still calm and with peaceful surroundings and almost no traffic. There are a lot of restaurants and cafés close to the apartment, and prices are cheap. Kids loved that they could easily go get take away for the nights we chose to eat in. The mojitos at Manfreds bar just beneath the apartment was amazing, as were the tapas on the tapasbar at the corner of the red square just a few steps away. All in all we had ate out a lot more than we had planned, as it was so cheap and delicious. El Médano itself is a jewel - we LOVE the relaxed atmosphere, the kind of people who travel here and the very non-touristy feel of it. It is a galaxy away from the noise and crowds of Playa the las Americas. It's a laid back, friendly, sporty and calm oasis.
The apartment itself is a complete 5 star! Fresh, clean, wonderful, very well equipped, best beds we have ever tried in a Homeaway rental, lots of appliances in the kitchen, lots of glasses, plates, etc... It truly felt like a home. The balcony - on the 5th floor, facing the sea and the entire beach of El Médano, was the highlight of the apartment. We sat for hours and enjoyed the sun, watching the kitesurfers and the beach life. The sunsets are amazing from the balcony as well!
Even though El Médano can be quite windy, the house is cleverly built in a way that makes the court yard and the pool an amazing haven of peace. No wind, and sun all day. The pool itself is not heated, and we were a bit skeptical before we arrived, could a non heated pool be warm enough? Yes, it can. It was warm and spacious, and usually we were alone by the pool, or just accompanied by a few others.
We ended up taking kitelessons, trying out surfing and hiring wetsuits and surfboards for the kids as well. We highly recommend it! How come we never tried it before?!
We have travelled a lot the last years, trying out different countries, locations and apartments. This is the first time ever we'll return many times - El Médano and this apartment are that good. Gaetan is extremely friendly, quick to respons and help, and Maria takes such a good care of every guest. Thank you for everything!