The small, volcanic Canary Island of Lanzarote is arguably best known for bucket and spade beach holidays.

But this tiny speck of Spain located just seventy miles off the coast of West Africa also boasts a growing selection of top quality rural hotels. With the Finca De Las Salinas amongst the cream of the crop.

The Finca De Las Salinas occupies a classic 18th century colonial mansion – that was constructed for the original owner, a Spanish pharmacist and businessman named Don Jaime Leo.

And on an island where virtually every building is painted a uniform white this terracotta coloured construction really stands out from the crowd.

Leo made his pile from the export of salt to mainland Europe – a commodity that was harvested in abundance from the Atlantic Ocean at the nearby Janubio salt works, from which the hotel takes its name. And the impressive edifice still bears witness to his obvious wealth – featuring flamboyant flourishes such as the Moorish crenellations that adorn the façade.

In 1996 the original building was renovated and restored under the aegis of the Lanzarote based architect Angel Garcia Puertas. And now offers a high level of luxury accommodation for the discerning guest. Boasting a total of seventeen rooms and suites, which are all individually decorated and which cleverly fuse traditional influences with ultra modern amenities.

Plus a number of additional luxurious touches – such as complimentary robes, slippers and – best of all perhaps – bottles of local wine (the island boasts a unique method of viniculture, with ingenious local growers using volcanic chippings to mulch their vines as rainfall is so low).

As well as a stunning pool area and very well maintained volcanic gardens the Hotel Finca De Las Salinas also boasts high-end amenities such as a sauna, Jacuzzi, gymnasium and tennis court. Along with the excellent on site Restaurante Mariateresa, which is in the capable hands of the Michelin starred head chef Joachim Koerper.

Photos: islanzarote.com