Norma, Joe, James, Kirsty, Amy, Benjamin and Janet

Duration of stay

May 2010 – June 2010

Comments

We stayed for two weeks in total. The first week was myself, my husband, son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren. The villa was more than big enough for the 6 of us with plenty of room to very comfortably spend a week or two or even more. The villa was enjoyed by us all, great for sun bathing, relaxing, entertaining, swimming and having fun. During our second week there, there were three adults and we all enjoyed that time just as much as the previous week. Of the many facilities there is a roof terrace with barbecue facilities, swimming pool, further barbecue facilities on the ground floor, beautiful gardens with lots of flora, lots of fruit trees, oddly comfortable large stone bench(!), hot tub, three large bedrooms, massive shower, fully equipped kitchen (lots of baby items in situ), lovely seating/eating areas.

In the immediate locality (walking distance) there are other similar sized hamlets which, including El Horno itself, offered decent sized mini-marts (most of our shopping was sought from these shops) and places to eat and drink (Mark kindly introduced us to each of them). We had a hire car for the first week which enabled us to travel to larger towns etc. which was a really good way to get around the island, however, Mark kindly offered to help with transport when required. Just giving a little notice and he drove and picked us up from various locations, often showing points of interest and again introducing us to many restaurant staff etc.

Mark and Debbie were fantastic hosts/guides/information centres! Although they live just above the rental villa they were always discreet yet always available when required. We cannot praise them enough for their local knowledge, friendliness, and often great company to relax with.

In summary, our holiday was perfect for our family (of various ages) and perfect for adults looking for relaxation. Definitely a holiday to go back to again and again.

Name of guest

Sharon, Chris, Ed, & John

Duration of stay

4 -11 April 2010

Comments

We spent the first week in April 2010 at Casa Del Sol with our two children aged 11 and 14. This place is ideal if you want to get away from the big tourist resorts and want to see and live the real Canarian life style. Peaceful village set inland in the valley although only 15 minute drive to the coast.

The hosts offer full use and privacy of the ground floor to their house with full use of the pool, spa, beautiful garden and access to roof terrace and barbecues. The accommodation is well equipped, clean and comfortable. The hosts offer great advice of attractions etc if you require it and always keen to help but at the same time leave you to enjoy your holiday by being discreet.

The weather was lovely we enjoyed relaxing on the sun loungers and eating outside in the garden and the boys really enjoyed the pool. We would recommend this to anyone wanting to enjoy chilling out in the sun.

Thank for a great holiday.

Freek and Marjo from the Netherlands

Duration of stay

25 Jan - 1 Feb 2010

Comments

The island is so nice and amazing. The winding roads, the unexpected views. The nice people we met.
The house, so clean, spacious, well equipped. Also we found a lot of little things witch make our stayhappy and make us feel at home, like the flowers and wine to welcome us.
The garden was so nice, we were so lucky as the orangetree was flowering and smelt beautiful. The pool wasunice, clean and a great luxury, as was the jacuzzi.
The hostess and host, so kind, helpful, advising us and always interested.
The weather.......we have had it all, sun, cloudy and a little rain. The effects off the rain on the island were surprising.
When we come back to Gran Canaria, we like to stay with you again.

Name of guest

Nige, Bren, Dan and Emma

Duration of stay

26 Dec 2009 - 03 Jan 2010

Comments

What a welcome! Arrived at the airport after a delay, met by Mark and drove a hire car for the first time abroad. When we arrived at the apartment we were met by Debbie who said make yourselves at home - bubbly on ice and a lovely christmas tree which certainly did made us feel welcome. The apartment was superb, spacious and very well equipped. The surroundings are exceptional, so quite and peaceful, lovely views of the mountains, pool, spa and the weather was the best we have ever had. If you can drag yourself away from the pool there is so much to see and do on the island. We were also very impressed with the fireworks on the beach on New Years Eve!

Mark and Debbie were so helpful, nothing was too much trouble and with their knowledge of the island it makes for a holiday to remember. Help was to hand if/whenever needed and when you haven't been before is very much appreciated. They really looked after us and we were so impressed that we have booked to go back in December this year.

This is an absolute must, thoroughly recommended!! Our thanks to Debbie, Mark and children for a fabulous holiday!.

Pat and Edward

Duration of stay

9 - 23 December 2009

Comments

From the moment we arrived, (hours late due to unforeseen delays to be greeted by Mark at the end of the road to show us the way), to our departure when he preceded us in his car to ensure we safely navigated any floods following a torrential night's rain, he and Debbie could not have been more helpful. However, during our stay they were not at all intrusive but were always there if needed. Their local knowledge was invaluable as it enabled us to make the most of our holiday.

The apartment is equipped and furnished to a very high standard and even the supplied toiletries were 'top class'. It was refreshing to arrive to find everything provided and not have to go shopping to buy essentials such as dishcloths, soap, washing up liquid, cleaning products needed. The 'welcome pack' that we requested Debbie to obtain for us was of a very high quality and it was pleasing to find somebody who did not charge a 'rip off' fee for this service. We only paid for the goods. Fresh fruit and herbs from the garden were plentiful and very welcome. The heated pool was kept spotlessly clean and the jacuzzi was an added bonus after a 'day in the mountains'.

The location of the apartment, nestling in the lower mountains, is ideal and the coast is only a 'stone's throw' away so it is the best of both worlds. The views are wonderful both from El Horno and the surrounding area, especially the sunset from the roof-top terrace. The roads from the airport to the apartment are good and 'easy' but for the more adventurous do as we did and explore the mountains. Here, the roads are more demanding but the 'nail-biting' sessions were well rewarded with spectacular views.

We are active pensioners and found the apartment ideal for us but, equally, it is very child friendly and family oriented. We would recommend it for our children and grandchildren - need we say more???

Claire, Christian, Emily and Olivia Rees

Duration of stay

27 - 31 October 2009

Comments

Had a brilliant time on our recent holiday, probably our most relaxing holiday ever. Villa really lovely, so clean, comfortable, plenty of room and a better equipped kitchen than mine at home. The pool was also extremely clean and a great temperature, we just couldn't get our childen to come out, hence the most relaxing holiday ever. The garden area was gorgeous and the hot tub added that extra something special. Tthe fact that you could eat 'al fresco' on the outside dining table was the icing on the cake.

The valley where the Villa is located is spectacular and the views from the rooftop terrace were breathtaking. Debbie and Mark were terrific and looked after us so well, nothing was too much trouble, any questions we had about Gran Canaria were answered on the spot. It was great to have hired a car as you are in driving distance to so many lovely places, although I would have been more than happy not to have moved from beside the pool.

Will definitely be visiting again soon, the children haven't stopped asking to go back. You couldn't ask for better !!!!!

Name of guest

Suzanne and Rob

Duration of stay

4 - 11 November 2009

Comments

What a little gem we found in Debbie and Mark's Casa del Sol in Gran Canaria! Away from the hubbub of the beaches and with awe-inspiring views of the mountains, yet only 12 min's easy drive from the sea, it was wonderful to return to this spotless oasis and relax in the peace and quiet of this beautifully appointed apartment. Everything (and more!) was provided for our comfort and Debbie and Mark took every effort to ensure that we maximised our holiday time exploring this amazing mini-world of Gran Canaria. Thank you both for sharing your piece of heaven with us - we loved every minute! Suzanne and Rob LEA from Chamonix, France

Gary and Theresa Brooker

Duration of stay

23 Feb - 9 March 2009

Comments

We had a fantastic time staying at Casa Del Sol with Mark & Deborah this year, every thing is provided with a very warm welcome which helps you relax from the moment you arrive, the setting is perfect for a quite relaxed break, pool, hot tub entice you to spend time at the villa, but when you need the beaches or 1st cass restaurants, the nearby town of Arguineguin is only 15 min's away by car.
Mark & Deborah have the perfect ballance of providing local knowledge & advise with out imposing on your valuable holiday time, on day two our car refused to start, and Mark volunteered to phone the rental company on our behalf, and we had the car replaced with no hassle the same morning!
We are certainly looking forward to returning to our Haven in the Sun next year.

Name of guest

Lesley and Richard Bailey

Duration of stay

16 - 27 Feb 2008 and 25 Oct - 1 Nov 2008

Comments

We have just returned from our second visit to the villa and Debbie and Mark really are very generous in sharing their piece of paradise with their visitors. You feel torn about telling the world how lovely it is and that others should really go as you want to keep the news to yourself.
The furnishings are clean and well kept, the swimming pool warm and the spa just luxury!
They are the perfect hosts, nothing is too much trouble for them even driving to the airport with the forgotten passports!
And well fresh orange juice from the fruit and trees in the garden is a real treat.

Lawrence, Kirsty, Amelia, Barbara and Allen

Duration of stay

13 - 20 September 2008

Comments

We just wanted to say how much we enjoyed ourselves on our recient holiday.

We stayed from the 13th September 2008 for a week.The weather was great, Deb and Mark made us very welcome and the setting and village were both lovely.The pool & hot tub were great and we think it was the perfect place to relax, we spent most evenings relaxing on the terrace with a glass of wine. If you wanted more excitment then you only need to drive into Arguiniguin where there was plenty to entertain.

We will return.

Lawrence, Kirsty, Amelia, Barbara and Allen

Name of guest

Brian, Val and Penny

Duration of stay

Comments

We have just paid a return visit to El Horno.

The valley was as beautiful as ever, the apartment as comfortable and Debbie and Mark as welcoming. We had a most enjoyable and relaxing week. We look forward to returning soon.

Denise, Ian, Vern and Gill

Duration of stay

1 March - 8 March 2008 and 9 -16 March 2009

Comments

It is an amazing place to stay. The setting is unbelievable, to wake up every morning and walk out onto the patio and see the sun coming up over the mountains surrounding you is just fantastic.

Mark and Debbie are such lovely people and were more than happy to help out with anything we needed. The apartment is extremely well equipped and everything is provided you could ever need for a holiday. The town of Arguineguin with its shops and beaches is only 10/15 mins away by car and there are many other places to visit close by.

We came home and immediately booked to go again, it's a beautiful place.

Denise, Ian, Vern and Gill (Nottingham)

Name of guest

Lynda and Andy Ellis

Duration of stay

2 June - 11 June 2008

Comments

This was our first visit to the Canary Isles, and it led to two great discoveries: the first was the fantastic climate that Gran Canaria enjoys – reliably hot and sunny by day (low humidity preventing discomfort) and lower temperatures for sound sleep at night. The second great discovery was the unparalleled level of care and support cheerfully and unstintingly provided by hosts Mark and Debbie.

Our party spanned three generations, and everything was done to make our holiday the best ever – all our needs were anticipated and satisfied without any prompting. The beautiful apartment, flowery garden and the pristine blue waters of the pool made such a superb setting that we didn’t do much exploring – just relaxed and luxuriated in our surroundings. It’s difficult to see how anyone could find such a holiday other than memorable – thanks so much Mark and Debbie!

Matt, Tracey, Audrey and William Schreiner

Duration of stay

27 March - 03 April 2008

Comments

Our family spent a wonderful week at Casa del Sol. Mark and Debbie are truly wonderful hosts. They were welcoming, warm and helpful. As it was our first time in Gran Canaria, their knowledge of the island, information books and general assistance were just what we needed. They helped us to find the main attractions and the local spots. They were able to provide directions to grocery stores and beaches. In addition, they are just truly nice people.

The apartment is perfect...spacious and nicely appointed. With two teenagers, it was important to have space and we had more than enough! The kitchen was well equipped and easy to use. The garden and pool were truly beautiful and we enjoyed sitting at our own table every morning and watching the sun rise over the hills and our children enjoyed the rooftop patio and jumping in the pool. We loved the location as well. It was just enough away from the crowds to provide a little paradise while still allowing access (via car) to the beaches and attractions of Gran Canaria.

It was really the best of both worlds and we highly recommend it!

Name of guest

Chris & Richard Howick, Eileen & Mike Hayward

Duration of stay

12 th January to 26 th January 2008

Comments

This was our first visit to Gran Canaria although we have been to other Canary Islands but this was certainly a far better deal than the usual busy resort.

A perfect winter break with excellent hosts, Debbie, Mark and their young family, who did everything to make our stay enjoyable and relaxing with valuable local knowledge.

The accommodation and facilities are first class, nothing is too much trouble and their welcome and concern for your well-being is exceptional. The peaceful and picturesque surroundings were enhanced with balmy weather and a lovely heated pool. The nearby beach resorts were lovely with not a time-share tout or sunglass/watch seller in sight!

I am sure we will be making a return visit and thoroughly recommend the experience.

The McCarron Family

Duration of stay

Comments

We have just returned from a fantastic two weeks with Mark and Debbie. Their hospitality was second to none, we were made to feel completely at home and they were always willing to provide advice and helpful information. The accommodation was first class and a pleasure to stay in. We will certainly be making a return visit.

Name of guest

Dave and Carole Lewis

Duration of stay

Comments

A superb holiday in tranquil surroundings with easy access to all the local resorts.

Mark and Debbie's welcome and hospitality enhanced a wonderful holiday. Their enthusiasm for the island was plain and their advice helped us make the most of our visit exploring much of the nearby coastline and experiencing the local culture.

We have just returned and are already looking forward our next holiday with our new found friends at Casa Del Sol.

Chris, Mel & Megan

Duration of stay

First week in October 2006

Comments

This was our 3rd visit to Gran Canaria and it made a lovely change to get away from the big commercial centers and stay in a  Spanish  village. The accommodation was first class and the pool the icing on the cake. It is only a short drive to the coast, so you have the best of both worlds. Thanks to our hosts Mark & Debs, their knowledge of the Island is invaluable and they can point you in the right direction for Sights, Food & entertainment, we will be making a return trip in March, looking forward to a relaxing week.

Chris Williams.

Name of guest

K Davies

Duration of stay

20 to 27 December 2006

Comments

Lovely quiet location surrounded by mountains. Villa spacious and like home from home. Beautiful garden and pool. The owners are very helpful and kind and make you feel very welcome. A lovely relaxing holiday cant wait to go again.

V.E Lawrie / G.J Vaughan

Duration of stay

8 to 15 May 2006

Comments

We have recently spent a wonderful week at Casa Del Sol, Debbie & mark who were our hosts made it the best holiday we have had. The apartment is very spacious and very well equipped you felt at home right away, a very relaxed and peaceful atmosphere and surroundings with plenty to see and do if you want, there is a little grocery store a few minutes stroll down to the village which is great for fresh fruit and veg.

Debbie & Mark were only to glad to inform us of the best places to visit, places you would not get to see if you were with a holiday company that you see in travel agents, they made this holiday very personal and special to us and nothing was too much trouble for them.

We have already booked again later this year and thoroughly recommend this apartment to others and have already done so, its like no other holiday you would have experienced

Thank you Debbie & Mark for a very special time

Name of guest

Chloe Turner

Duration of stay

February 2006

Comments

It was my first visit to Gran Canaria. Mark and Debbie were fantastic hosts and made me feel very much at home. They know the island very well and can advise of things to do and places to visit. The apartment is spacious and i am looking forward to visiting again to take advantage of the pool which has been added since my first visit.

Try it-its fun!

Thank you once more

Cliff Fairweather

Duration of stay

20th March - 3rd April 2006

Comments

To Mark & Debbie, Thank you for making our holiday so pleasant and relaxing, your knowledge of the island and surrounding area helped to make our stay so much simpler.   The apartment is extremely comfortable and well equipped and use of the swimming pool an added bonus. we will be visiting again in the not too distant future. 

Name of guest

Mark Shepherd

Duration of stay

22nd - 29th May 2006

Comments

A fantastic place to get away. Close to tourist areas but private and secluded. The apartment is ideally set up for a family holiday, well equipped and comfortable. The garden & pool are a treat to be enjoyed. Our welcome was as friendly as the sun was hot, and the living was easy. To be recommended!

Lesley and John Allen

Duration of stay

3rd - 10th April 2006

Comments

Having spent a week's break at Casa del sol, all the family fully relaxed and felt refreshed from the quiet location and lovely accommodation provided us. We all enjoyed cooling off in the pool between sun bathing and games.

We enjoyed the evening's poolside barbeque together with sampling the nearby local cuisine, which made a fantastic variety of dishes each and every night.

Now we know about “Casa Del Sol”, I don't think we would want to stay anywhere else in Gran Canaria on future visits, as the package deals just don't compare.

Lesley, John and all the family

Name of guest

Ralph Taylor

Duration of stay

3rd - 10th April 2006

Comments

Debbie and Mark were excellent hosts. On top of providing very comfortable place to stay and base during our holiday, they went out of their way to otherwise accomodate us, providing assistance and very useful information regarding the island (places to go, what to look out for, etc).
Extremely good value for money and highly recommended!!!!