PureandCure review: Marleen’s visit to OCÉANO in Tenerife

Arrival in OCÉANO Hotel Health Spa

The resort where I’ll be staying for the next few days is nestled on the peaceful north side of the island, far from the tourist-heavy areas in the south. After an hour’s drive through the mountains, I arrive at OCÉANO Hotel Health Spa. At first glance, the exterior is unremarkable—a simple white building that doesn’t immediately impress. But as I step inside, the atmosphere changes. The pool is inviting, the ocean view is stunning, and the palm trees add a lush, tropical feel. The real welcome comes when the receptionist greets me by name—small gestures like this make all the difference in making guests feel at home.

First impression of OCÉANO

Tucked away in the serene fishing village of Punta del Hidalgo, this hotel is a haven for wellness seekers rather than partygoers or all-inclusive holidaymakers. Visitors come here for tranquility, drawn by the peaceful atmosphere rather than bustling nightlife. The rugged coastline isn’t ideal for swimming, but a natural seawater pool offers a refreshing way to enjoy the ocean. Hotel Océano has been in the hands of the same family for decades and is now run by Magda and Mathias. Mathias, a doctor, oversees the hotel’s renowned Mayr clinic, while Magda manages operations and marketing. With just 88 rooms, the hotel feels intimate—especially when compared to the sprawling tourist resorts in the island’s south, where 500-room properties are the norm.

Health specialty: Mayr detox

The hotel is renowned for its expertise in Mayr detox programs, offering a scientifically grounded and holistic approach to health and well-being. At the heart of this is the Mayr Detox Centre, where guests undergo structured treatments under the expert guidance of specialists, including co-owner and physician Mathias. The Mayr method, developed by Austrian doctor Dr. Franz Xaver Mayr (1875–1965), is based on the understanding that gut health is fundamental to overall wellness. With a surface area of 400m², the intestines are the body’s largest organ and play a vital role in detoxification. As a pioneer in holistic medicine, Mayr emphasized the importance of diet, fasting, and digestive care as pillars of long-term health. His FX Mayr approach continues to influence modern medical therapies, reinforcing the idea that a healthy gut is the key to vitality and longevity.

What is Mayr

A Mayr cure is built around three fundamental principles, all starting with an S: Safety, to protect the intestines, Sanitation, to cleanse and detoxify them, and Schooling, to educate individuals on sustaining long-term health and vitality. This method has been scientifically studied and validated over the years. Dr. Mayr’s philosophy continues to thrive through the International Association of Mayr Physicians, a network of over 1,000 doctors across Europe who apply his approach in hospitals, private clinics, and wellness retreats. A Mayr detox is both a preventive and therapeutic practice, designed to support overall well-being while specifically addressing digestive concerns. By aiding the breakdown of excess fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, it helps restore the body’s natural balance, promoting better digestion, energy levels, and long-term health.

Restaurants in OCÉANO

The hotel features two restaurants: one exclusively for Mayr guests and another serving regular meals. The main restaurant specializes in light, health-conscious cuisine, with the chef carefully selecting fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including organic vegetables and freshly caught fish. The menu offers a variety of flavorful dishes, from meat, poultry, and seafood to creative vegetarian options, along with fresh salads and light snacks for lunch. Breakfast includes local delicacies, tropical fruits, and gluten- and lactose-free choices. For those looking to improve their eating habits, the nutrition experts at OCÉANO are available to provide personalized dietary advice.

OCÉANO's team of experts

The hotel’s spa offers a wide range of treatments, with a focus on Ayurveda and Thalasso therapy. Guests can enjoy treatments in dedicated therapy rooms, with massages available either in the spa studio or in private suites upon request. The wellness area features various saunas, including a Finnish sauna, bio sauna, Turkish steam bath, and infrared sauna, as well as a fully equipped fitness center. The Thalasso center is a highlight, featuring a seawater therapy pool designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

Local points of interest

Stargazing from Pico del Teide, the island’s tallest volcano, was an unforgettable experience. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, it offers the perfect vantage point to admire the night sky and gain insight into the cosmos. Our guide, Jose Antonio, brought a telescope and captivated us with his deep knowledge and passion for the planets and stars.

Dolphin and whale spotting

In southern Tenerife, you can set sail on a catamaran for a dolphin and whale-watching adventure. While it may be a popular tourist activity, I thought it was truly unforgettable. Seeing 11 dolphins playfully darting around our boat was incredible, and we were lucky enough to spot four short-finned whales as well.

Other useful info

The hotel is designed to fully support guests undergoing treatment programs, offering dedicated restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs. In addition to personalized meals, you can participate in yoga classes and a varied weekly activity programme. 

The Highlights

The Seawater Pool: Every morning at 7:30, I started my day with a refreshing swim in the natural seawater pool right in front of the hotel. It feels like an open-sea experience, but in a safe and serene setting—an invigorating way to wake up and embrace the day.  

Nourishing, Light Cuisine: The hotel's menu is designed for easy digestion, making it ideal for those looking to eat healthily or lose a few pounds. The chef crafts beautifully balanced three-course meals using fresh vegetables, fish, and even seaweed—which, to my surprise, was absolutely delicious! Each meal was light yet satisfying, proving that healthy eating can be both nourishing and full of flavor.

Room for improvement

Upon arrival, I was welcomed in German, which felt a bit surprising considering we were in Spain. Later, the friendly manager explained that this habit stems from the hotel’s long history of welcoming German guests. While the clientele has since become more international, with visitors from the UK, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Scandinavia, a more diverse approach to greetings could make all guests feel instantly at home.

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About Marleen

This blog is written by Marleen, the founder of PureandCure.com in 2005. She travels around the world in search of the best Health & Wellbeing Hotels, Spas and Retreats and shares her know-how, experiences and observations through her blogs.