XQ El Palacete: Fuerteventura's Hidden Gem? You Won't Believe This!
XQ El Palacete: Fuerteventura's Hidden Gem? Hold My Mojito… (A Messy, Honest Review)
Okay, folks, buckle up. Because I’ve just returned from a week at XQ El Palacete in Fuerteventura and, let me tell you, it’s a rollercoaster. Forget those pristine, perfectly polished reviews. This is real life. This is me, post-sunburn and slightly bewildered, spilling the beans.
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Keywords: XQ El Palacete, Fuerteventura, Review, Hotel, Accessibility, Spa, Pool, Restaurants, WiFi, Cleanliness, Safety, Family Friendly, Luxurious, Hidden Gem, Canary Islands, Travel, Holiday.
Title Tags: XQ El Palacete Review - Fuerteventura's Hidden Gem? Honest Verdict!
Meta Description: Thinking of a trip to XQ El Palacete in Fuerteventura? Read my uncensored review! Accessibility, spa, restaurants, and all the juicy details, plus some serious (and funny) opinions. Seriously, this review is raw!
(The Rambling Starts Now…)
First things first: accessibility. Gotta be honest, I didn't need any special accessibility features, but I did take a good poke around looking for them. The hotel itself seems, on first impression, to be pretty good. There's an elevator and the pathways seemed reasonably wide, suggesting a serious effort to make the place workable for people with mobility issues. Seeing as they have a car park [on-site] and offer airport transfer there's a better chance of accessibility. I'm not an expert, but it felt like an inclusive environment. No issues there, thankfully.
(A Moment of Pure, Unguarded Delight – The Pool!)
Okay, let's talk about the pool. Oh. My. God. The swimming pool [outdoor] is stunning. And when they say "pool with view," they mean it. You're basically swimming in a postcard. The water was the perfect temperature, the chairs were comfortable (and mercifully plentiful!), and I spent a solid afternoon just…floating. Pure bliss. I even got a tan! (Much to my delight.)
(But Then… the Internet. Sigh.)
Now, let's get real about the internet. They shout about "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" and, technically, it’s true. But the signal? Let’s just say my Zoom calls were…a challenge. Especially when I was trying to upload some photos (which I wanted to do immediately because I am THAT kind of person) The Internet access – wireless was spotty and the Internet [LAN] was offered but I didn't see one. Seriously considering the Internet services were iffy. It's a small gripe, I know. I was on vacation, after all. But, in this day and age, reliable Wi-Fi is practically a human right. So, yeah, a bit of a downside.
(Finding My Zen (Or Trying To) - The Spa and Sauna)
Okay, back to the good stuff. The spa. Oh, the spa! I'm a sucker for a good pampering. They offer a body scrub and a body wrap, and I went for it! My skin felt amazing afterward, even before the massage. The sauna and steamroom were also fantastic. Seriously, if you're stressed, the spa is your sanctuary here. I even made a friend in the spa/sauna, a lovely elderly lady who told me way too much about her marital history. (But hey, that's what vacation is for, right?)
(The Dining Experience - A Mixed Bag of Delights and Disasters)
The dining, drinking, and snacking situation deserves its own section. There are several restaurants, a poolside bar, a coffee shop, a snack bar,. The breakfast, the Breakfast [buffet] was a feast! Delicious Western breakfast option and Asian breakfast options. The Buffet in restaurant was well-stocked, and there was delicious coffee/tea in restaurant. The bottle of water was a lifesaver. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was one meal and it was well worth it!
Now, for the slightly less stellar parts. One evening, I tried the a la carte in restaurant, and it was…underwhelming. Overcooked fish, bland sauce, and an overall feeling of "meh." The Happy hour was pretty good! The Salad in restaurant was fresh and delightful.
(Cleanliness and Safety – A Big Thumbs Up)
This is where XQ El Palacete REALLY shines. The cleanliness and safety protocols are top-notch. I felt incredibly safe the whole time. They were clearly taking things seriously, with daily disinfection in common areas, staff trained in safety protocol, sanitized kitchen and tableware items, hand sanitizer everywhere. I even liked the physical distancing of at least 1 meter, though it did mean I couldn’t get as close to the pool bar as I wanted! The rooms weren't cleaned every day, they offered a Room sanitization opt-out available, which was cool, so that the hotel was acting in an environmentally friendly way. The Anti-viral cleaning products.
(The Room – A Mix of Luxury and Quirks)
Okay, let's talk about the room. Air conditioning? Check. Air conditioning in public area? Check. Blackout curtains? Sweet relief from the Fuerteventuran sun! The desk was useful for the few times I had to actually do some work. Coffee/tea maker? Essential. It was well-appointed, with a mini bar, in-room safe box, and all the usual amenities.
The bed was comfortable, the bed was extra long! The separate shower/bathtub was nice. The towels were fluffy. I really loved that the window that opens. I loved the bathrobes.
(Things to Do and Not to Do)
Okay, let's face it, Fuerteventura is all about beaches and relaxation. XQ El Palacete has got you covered on the ways to relax. If you're looking for wild nightlife, you're in the wrong place. If you're looking for a chilled-out escape, you've come to the right one. There are Things to do, but plan to explore the island.
(For the Kids – A Quick Glance)
I didn't travel with kids, but I did catch glimpses of the Kids facilities and it looked good. They offered a Babysitting service, which would be handy. The hotel seemed pretty Family/child friendly.
(Getting Around – Easy Peasy)
Car park [free of charge], bonus! They offer Airport transfer, which is super convenient. The Taxi service was readily available, too.
(The Verdict - Worth the Hype? Well…)
So, is XQ El Palacete a hidden gem? Yes, mostly. It's not perfect. The Wi-Fi is a pain. The food can be hit or miss. But the stunning pool, the relaxing spa, the impeccable cleanliness, and the overall vibe of tranquility more than make up for it.
Would I go back? Absolutely. I’m already dreaming of that pool…and maybe this time I'll bring my own portable Wi-Fi. (Final Thoughts and Random Ramblings)
Go. Just go. Bask in the sun. Relax. And don’t forget your sunscreen. And maybe your own Wi-Fi. And tell the lovely elderly lady in the spa that I said hello!
Twickenham's BEST Kept Secret: Luxury Guest House (London)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my chaotic adventure at XQ El Palacete in Fuerteventura. Forget the pristine brochure – this is real travel, folks. And I'm not promising a polished performance. Prepare for a glorious mess.
(Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread in Paradise)
- 14:00 (ish): Arrive at Fuerteventura Airport. Okay, let's be honest, "arrive" is generous. More like, "stumble out of the plane looking vaguely disheveled and questioning all life choices that led me here". The airport is… well, it's an airport. Bright, breezy, and I swear the guy pushing the luggage trolley gave me a side-eye. Maybe I look like I need a cocktail. I probably needed one BEFORE the flight.
- 15:00: Transfer to XQ El Palacete. The shuttle driver had the radio cranked up to a Spanish pop station. I don't understand a word, but somehow, I feel like I'm already living my best life, even though I’m sweating through my linen shirt. The scenery? Breathtaking cliffs and vast volcanic landscapes. I’m half expecting a tumbleweed to roll by.
- 16:00: Check-in at the hotel. The lobby is gorgeous, all gleaming white and minimalist chic. Makes me feel like a small, slightly bewildered potato. The receptionist is incredibly polite, but I swear she’s judging my questionable fashion choices (again, the linen shirt). I clumsily drop my passport and the tiny, plastic room key card twice.
- 17:00: Room reveal! Okay, the room itself is amazing! A tiny balcony overlooking the pool. I'm practically doing a happy dance. (Don't tell anyone. Also, the AC is a godsend). But… where the heck do I put all my stuff?! I’m basically a walking tornado of luggage and anxiety. Seriously considering just living out of my suitcase for the next week to minimize the mess.
- 18:00: Poolside Fail. I attempted to gracefully transition from sunbed to water, nearly face-planting in the process. Managed to save myself by grabbing the side of the pool and looking like a drowned rat. The other guests, all bronzed and effortlessly elegant, politely averted their gaze. I'm starting to think I should've taken up underwater basket weaving instead.
(Day 2: Beach Bummin' & Tapas Triumph – Almost)
- 09:00: Breakfast. The buffet is a glorious, heaving feast. I start with the fruit - trying to be healthy, I swear - and then completely lose control. Pastries, cheese, cured meats… Okay, maybe the "healthy" bit was a fleeting notion. I'm going all-in.
- 10:30: Beach time! Head to the nearby beach, a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. The waves are tempting. I spend most of the time battling the wind and trying not to lose my sunglasses AND my dignity in the process. The water is freezing! But the sun is so warm.
- 13:00: Tapas adventure! I find a cute little restaurant in a nearby village, with the promise of authentic tapas. Ordering is a struggle, but I point and gesture and somehow manage to order a plate of… what appears to be fried something-or-other. Tastes like heaven. But it's gone in five minutes…and I'm left wanting more.
- 14:00: Back to the Hotel for a little "siesta". I decide to take a nap on the balcony and end up getting sunburnt. I swear, how?!
- 17:00: Poolside reconquest! I attempt to float elegantly in the pool. I get my bearings and decide to just let go. It’s amazing! The warmth is heavenly. I’m still clumsy, but hey, at least I'm not face-planting.
- 19:00: Sunset drinks at the hotel bar. Amazing! I order a mojito and spill half of it down my front. The bartender, bless his heart, just smiles and offers me a napkin. He’s seen worse, I’m sure. The sunset? Spectacular. Makes the entire day feel worthwhile.
(Day 3: Camel Trek & Desert Disasters)
- 08:00: Wake up. Okay, let's be honest, "wake up" is a strong word. More like, "drag myself out of bed". I'm still tired despite all the relaxing!
- 09:00: Breakfast…again. This time, I'm pacing myself. (Lies. Delicious, carbohydrate-laden lies).
- 10:00: Camel Trek. This sounded like a fantastic idea… before I actually got on the camel. The first few minutes are a wobbly, terrifying experience. They're WAY higher than I thought they would be. My camel is named Carlos. He seems to be annoyed by my presence, and is probably judging my fashion choices. (I swear, it’s always the fashion!). The desert is vast and beautiful, but I'm mainly concentrating on not falling off.
- 12:00: Still on the camel. Carlos decides to stop to eat some shrubbery. I'm basically glued to his back. This is where the "adventure" part of the trip is really coming in.
- 13:00: Lunch at a local restaurant. I’m still slightly wobbly from the camel ride, and I'm sunburned from the balcony incident. I somehow manage to order a delicious plate of grilled prawns and a cold beer. Worth it.
- 17:00: Back to the hotel. I spend the afternoon trying to rehydrate after the camel trek and the sun exposure. This is supposed to be relaxing, not a survival situation!
- 19:00: Dinner at the hotel restaurant. The food is amazing. I eat way too much. I have an existential crisis about whether or not to order the chocolate cake. I order the chocolate cake. No regrets.
(Day 4: Wind, Wanderlust, and Wonder)
- 09:00: Wake up. Okay, just a quick breakfast.
- 10:00: Visit the Cofete beach. The beaches are amazing! So so long and so beautiful. The wind is insane!
- 12:00: Wander through picturesque towns, stopping at cute little shops.
- 14:00: Take a long lunch.
- 20:00: Dinner at the hotel Restaurant.
(Day 5 - 7: The Blur of Bliss & Departure – with a side of melancholy).
- Repeat of previous days, with minor variations: More beach time (less wind, thank goodness), more tapas (learning to order like a semi-pro), more poolside flops (embracing the gracelessness), more sunsets (glorious, every single one).
- Attempted to go surfing: Failed spectacularly. Surfing is harder than it looks!
- Discovered the hotel spa: Glorious! Hours of blissful relaxation and pampering. Definitely needed. (Probably needed that on day one).
- The inevitable moment of sadness: Realized I have to leave soon. The tan lines, the laid-back vibe, the delicious food… I don’t want to go.
- Departure Day: The airport feels the same as when I arrived: an airport. Still a bit disheveled. Still questioning life choices. But also? Heart full of memories. XQ El Palacete, you beautiful, imperfect, slightly chaotic paradise, I’ll be back. (Hopefully with better packing skills and a slightly more graceful pool entrance…)
XQ El Palacete: Fuerteventura's Hidden Gem? Oh, you WANT the truth? Buckle Up.
Okay, so, what even IS XQ El Palacete? Like, *really*? Is it just another hotel?
Alright, alright, settle down. It's *called* a hotel. Fine. Technically. But "hotel" feels...sterile, doesn't it? It's more like… a meticulously preserved, slightly crumbling, gloriously quirky Spanish mansion plonked on a cliffside. Think less "Hilton" and more… "your eccentric aunt’s house, but she’s loaded and has a killer view." Seriously, the first time I saw it, I was like, "Whoa. Did a princess just move in?" (Spoiler: probably not, but it *feels* that fancy). And the view?! Forget about it. You can practically *taste* the Atlantic.
Sounds fancy! What's the vibe? Is it stuffy? I hate stuffy.
Stuffy? God, no. THANK GOD, no. I'm allergic to stuffy. Okay, there's an *attempt* at elegance. You'll see some antiques, maybe a slightly dusty chandelier. But it's all… relaxed. Like, the staff are genuinely friendly (not the forced, plastic smiles), and you can wander around in your pajamas, no judgment. I mean, I did. (And probably should have changed before breakfast, but *shrug*… holidays). The vibe is more… slightly bohemian, a touch romantic, and definitely chilled. Think "relaxed luxury," if that makes sense. Expect a few slightly rogue flower arrangements, and a general air of "It's okay if the paint is peeling a tiny bit." Which, by the way, it is. (Adds to the charm, I swear!)
Tell me about the rooms. Are they actually good? Or just pretty for Instagram?
Look, Instagram lies. But not *completely* here. The rooms are genuinely lovely. Spacious, with high ceilings, and usually with a private balcony or terrace. My room? It had a *freaking* ocean view. Like, you could literally roll out of bed, and BAM! Blue. The beds are comfy, the bathrooms are decent (some more modern than others, depending on the room), and the air conditioning… *works*. Crucial. I will say, *some* rooms are better than others. Ask for one with a balcony facing the sea, trust me. It's worth it. I once, okay TWICE, tried to get a room with a Jacuzzi. Epic fail. Never again. Lesson learned.
Okay, food. Crucial. What's the grub like?
The food… varies. Breakfast is pretty good. Decent coffee, pastries, local fruits. Nothing earth-shattering, but solid. The dinner… here's where it gets interesting. There's a restaurant, and the menu changes. Sometimes it's amazing. Fresh seafood, perfectly cooked. Other times… it's a bit hit-or-miss. One night, I had this incredible octopus – it was, like, the best octopus I've ever had. The next night? The steak was, well, not great. Consistency isn't their strong suit. (Bless them, though, they're trying!). My advice? Don't expect Michelin stars, but do expect some lovely, fresh ingredients and a charming ambiance. And order the octopus if it's on the menu, duh! Oh, and the cocktails at the bar? Definitely a win. Especially the Passionfruit Mojito... I might have had, like, five one evening. Don't judge.
The pool! Is the pool amazing? Instagrammable?
The pool… okay, the pool IS amazing. It’s the centerpiece. Infinity pool. Seriously. Looks like it just spills right into the ocean. The views from poolside are… *chef's kiss*. It’s definitely Instagrammable, but don’t let that distract you from actually *enjoying* it. I spent hours there, just floating, staring at the view, occasionally sipping a cocktail. Pure bliss. However, the pool area can get slightly crowded, depending on the time of year. So, if you're a serious swimmer, maybe this ain't it. But for lounging and soaking up the sun, it's perfect. I did notice a few rogue seagulls... those guys are relentless.
What are the downsides? Spill. Don't be polite.
Alright, alright. Here comes the honesty bomb. Firstly, the wifi. It can be… patchy. Prepare to unplug. Which, honestly, isn't the *worst* thing. Secondly... and this is a small one... the walk from the reception to some of the rooms can be a bit of a trek. Especially if you have a lot of luggage and/or a slight aversion to hills (me!). Third (and this is minor), the air conditioning *could* be better in some rooms. Fourth. Seriously, the food at dinner is a gamble. Fifth, the price. It's not exactly budget-friendly. Sixth, the seagulls. Those feathered fiends will try to steal your food. Vigilance is key! And, be prepared for a few minor imperfections. It's not a perfectly polished place. But honestly? That's part of its charm.
Is it worth it? Seriously?
Yeah. Honestly? Yes. Despite the wobbly wifi, the dinner gamble, the occasional seagull crisis, and the price… it's worth it. Because of the view. Because of the vibe. Because of the fact that it *feels* special. Because you're essentially staying in a slightly-crumbling, gloriously-quirky mansion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It's a place to unwind, to escape. It made me truly relax. Forget the minor problems, the place is *magical*. And I'm usually a super-critical person. I left feeling refreshed, and already planning my return. Go. Just… go. And order the octopus. Seriously.
Anything else I should know before I book?
Okay, a few more things.
- **Go at sunset.** The views are truly epic. Find a good spot to sit, and just marvel at the sky's colors.
- **Rent a car.** The hotel is a bit isolated, so a car gives you freedom to explore the island. Which you should, because Fuerteventura is beautiful.
- **Pack sunscreen.** Duh. And a hat. And maybe some bug spray, even though I didn't have too many problems with that.
- **Relax and embrace the imperfections.** This isn't a cookie-cutter hotel. It's unique. Run with it!
- **Ask for recommendations.** The staff are generally friendly and happy to help. Ask them for theirCozy Stay SpotsXQ El Palacete Fuerteventura Spain
XQ El Palacete Fuerteventura Spain
