This was our second trip to the Canary Islands within a month of our last trip to Tenerife. This time, our destination was Gran Canaria, more specifically the capital city, Las Palmas.

I feel sad as I write this that it was only three months ago that it was the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022. We had decided to make use of the generous long weekend and spontaneously booked a last minute flight to the Canary Islands.

Our hotel was Reina Isabel and Spa, which in a beautiful coincidence translates as Queen Elisabeth. So even though we were not in the UK; we were celebrating Her in some way!

We loved our stay at Bull Reina Isabel, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – here’s why!

Location Location Location

The hotel is in an ideal location in Las Palmas; it sits on the beachfront of Las Canteras Beach so you are seconds from the sandy beaches and the sea. It is also very well located near the main restaurants and bars, right in the hub of Las Palmas.

Rooftop Swimming Pool

What’s better than a swimming pool? A rooftop swimming pool! Unlike most beachfront hotels, Reina Isabel have their pool on the top floor of the hotel. You get sweeping panoramic views of Playa de Las Canteras on one side and the city of Las Palmas on the other. If you fancy sipping cocktails by the pool, they also have a bar on the same level.

Indoor Pool and Spa

The hotel has thought of everything, including planning for inclement weather. In addition to the rooftop pool, they also have an indoor heated version, as well as spa facilities such as a sauna, Turkish Bath and steam rooms. If you need further relaxation, they also have treatment rooms offering massage and beauty therapy.

Sea-facing Rooms

Is there anything more therapeutic than waking up to the sounds of waves crashing and infinite views of the ocean beyond? If you are staying in the hotel, I would definitely recommend a sea view room or suite.

Sumptuous Breakfast Buffet

Hands up if, like me, you also love a breakfast buffet on holiday! Every morning, the hotel put up a lavish spread of everything you expect from a hotel breakfast and then some. They have a live cooking counter for your eggs and grilled meats, as well as a buffet including salads, local bread and cheeses, juices and sparkling wine. Breakfast by the beach just hits different.

Areas of Improvement

Whilst the positives far outweigh the negatives, there were a few minor things in the hotel that could have been better. We felt the staff were not very friendly or engaging. Was it a language barrier, I am not sure. Room cleaning was below average, with several times we returned to our room after housekeeping had been to see used glasses had not been cleared.

Overall, I would still recommend Hotel Bull Reina Isabel, so save this post when planning for your trip to Gran Canaria.

For us, the Canary Islands have everything we look for in a relaxing holiday – sea, sandy beaches, affordable food and drinks and the lovely island folk. I can’t wait to explore the other Islands. Save this hotel for your next Gran Canaria trip.