Iberostar Selection Sabila

Housed in a large six-story building built at an angle to the beach, Iberostar Torviscas Playa is similar to most other mid-range beach hotels around. The bi-level lobby is large and bright, with lots of homey seating areas furnished with light grey velvet couches, laminate floors, and plants. Designed to resemble a greenhouse with slanted glass ceilings and a large glass wall overlooking the main entrance, the central part of the lobby is sunny and attractive. Big marble stairs lead to the downstairs lobby, which features similar decor with more wood accents and small pebble gardens with a few plants. There is nothing particularly stylish here, but the space is spotless and pleasant. Rooms, however, are a little lackluster, with dated, uninspired decor and modern yet basic amenities. The hotel features a coupe of meeting rooms, but with kid-friendly amenities, a location a block from the beach, and a large pool, the hotel draws mostly families.

The hotel is located off a one-way street lined with hotels, shops selling souvenirs and beach gear, and restaurants. Down the street -- less than a block away -- is Fañabé, one of Costa Adeje’s largest and most famous beaches. Guests can sign up for boat excursions and do water sports at Puerto Colón, located a 10-minute walk away. Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos, both known for their nice beaches, can be reached by car in 15 minutes, or in 20 by bus. There is a bus stop a five-minute walk from the property. The airport is a 15-minute drive away.

The hotel has 473 rooms, all spotless and featuring solid amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and air-conditioning. However, those expecting 4-star quality and style (as advertised) may feel disappointed. Decor is dated for the most part, with thin, yellow bedspreads, basic wooden furniture, and bare walls (there’s only a small photo or painting above the bed). Balconies are furnished with plastic chairs and tables, and some rooms have sea views. Priority Location rooms offer more space and a range of extra perks, including access to the sixth-floor sun deck, complete with a pool. Connecting rooms are available upon request. The hotel offers 30 minutes of free Internet access a day.

The main pool deck is large and appealing, with lots of loungers, palm trees, a grill restaurant with outdoor seating, and partial ocean views. There is an additional, quieter pool on the sixth floor, but it is exclusive for Privilege guests. The hotel offers a few options for those looking to stay active during their vacation, including a small but modern fitness center with natural light, yoga and Pilates classes, and a tennis court (for a fee). The movement studio doubles as a massage room, but the property lacks a full spa. Aside from the poolside grill, the hotel offers a buffet restaurant serving up standard all-inclusive fare for all three meals. With a kiddy pool, a kids’ club, a playground and an arcade for teens, the hotel is a solid option for those traveling with children. On-site parking is available free of charge.