Review of the AluaSoul Orotava Valley Hotel in Puerto de la Cruz
Below is an attempt to present my impressions (3 weeks in January 2025) as objectively as possible:
1. Staff: Absolutely friendly staff. 9 out of 10 points. One point deducted as it is evident that the reception operates consistently in a business-oriented manner. Customer centricity is lacking or only provided at an additional cost. Otherwise, the staff are friendly and attentive.
2. Location / Accessibility: Without a car, guests need to be in excellent physical condition. For older guests or those less physically able, reaching the centre is quite an effort, as the hotel is somewhat distant and the route is VERY STEEP.
Tip for guests: Take the lift up to the pool level and then use the pool lift to reach level 1 and exit through the rear door to save your energy. To return, access via the rear entrance, use the key card to reach level 1, take the lift to the pool level (level 4), and then use the other lift to go higher.
For car renters: Especially in the evenings, the few parking spaces on the street are quickly taken. It may be worthwhile to use the small parking lot above the hotel complex. It is free, close to the hotel, but also has limited spaces.
3. Hygiene: The hotel, including the bathrooms, is clean and cannot be faulted.
4. Noise levels: Rooms facing the street are subject to traffic noise from cars and buses. For those seeking true tranquillity, rooms facing the sea (ocean) are preferable, although the sound of the sea will be audible. The soundproofing between neighbouring rooms is acceptable.
Drawback: The noise from drainage pipes in the bathroom is unpleasant. It is possible to hear waste falling to the lower levels.
5. Entertainment programme: The hotel offers a varied programme. However, likely due to the profile of guests in an adults-only hotel, there is little lively atmosphere. It was noticeable that guests were also reserved towards each other, something I have not experienced in other hotels. Those looking to socialise might feel disappointed.
6. Internet: For those who, like me, rely on the Internet, do not rely on the hotel’s claim that it is available in all rooms. While it appears connected, it was generally unavailable during the day. Also, do not assume that your German provider’s data plan is genuinely unlimited.
SOLUTION: Purchase a prepaid SIM card from a local provider. These are much cheaper than in Germany and offer, for instance, 300 GB for €20. You only need your ID card to register and activate the card, which is ready to use immediately. I purchased a prepaid SIM card at the "Centro Comercial La Villa / Alcampo" in "Puerto de la Cruz" from Vodafone, and it worked perfectly for €20. While the hotel claims the Internet is at least available at reception level, this is not convenient for everyone.
Conclusion: In my personal opinion, the hotel is not suitable for people with health limitations, remote workers, or those looking for social interaction. I would NOT book this hotel again and CANNOT RECOMMEND it for the reasons outlined above.
