Gran Melia Salinas Hotel
The Gran Melia Salinas, located in the resort of Costa Teguise, is widely regarded as one of the very best Lanzarote hotels. And was constructed under the aegis of the ubiquitous island born artist and architect Cesar Manrique.
During the 1970´s Manrique was responsible for creating a seaside sister resort to the old island capital of Teguise. And planned a low rise luxury development in a hitherto deserted spot – christening it Costa Teguise.
Manrique´s plan was to anchor this ambitious project with a prestigious five star hotel. And working in conjunction with the architect Fernando Higueras and backed by the financial muscle of Spain’s Sol Melia Hotel Group the pair created a seriously stylish establishment – which opened its doors to the public for the first time in 1976. Constructed around a lush interior garden, which occupies the hotel’s central atrium.
Today, the Gran Melia still features many of Manrique´s trademark touches. The swimming pool area for example is highly remisncient of the pool Manrique created at the Jameos del Agua, one of Lanzarote´s most popular tourist attractions. And which is said to be reserved fhe the sole use of the King of Spain. Whilst many of Manriques original works of art and murals adorn the walls. Along with paintings by contempaores such as Pepe Dámaso and Paco Curbelo.
The most breathtaking feature of the construction though is the central botanical centerpiece. Which pays homage to the traditional Canarian patio found in many older island homes – and which has since been replicated in many other top class establishments around the world.
The work of Manrique and Higueras’ work was so impressive that the hotel was awarded the International Award for Architecture in 1978. Which helped to launch Costa Teguise as an upmarket international travel destination.
The Gran Melia has a total of 316 bedrooms. Made up of 279 deluxe standard rooms, 31 single rooms, 25 junior suites and two master suites. As well the adjoining Garden Villas suites Along with no less than five different restaurants. Room rates start from around €170 per night on a bed and breakfast basis.
