WHAT IT IS?
The building dates back to 1830, a house measuring just 40m2. The second floor was added shortly afterwards, and it became the center of trade in the village, used to store wine, fruit, and other products that would later be exported all over the world.
In 1948, Francisco Padrón Villarreal fell in love with this place and acquired the property, but it was not until years later, in 1969, that he developed a genuine interest in managing it for tourism, starting with a bar-restaurant.
In November 1975, the structure, which was in a state of decay, was restored by an architect and converted into a hotel.
With just 4 rooms and 1 suite, it was recognized by Guinness World Records in 1984 as the smallest hotel in the world.
Its a volcanic-stone architecture, minimalist interiors with panoramic windows framing the Atlantic create a sense of total isolation: no TV, no distractions, only the sound of the sea.
For decades, Puntagrande has been a symbol of El Hierro’s identity.
WHY IT’S COOL?
The experience is fully immersive: waves crashing into the rocks, lava stone walls surrounding you, and big windows framing the endless Atlantic. There’s no TV, no technology, just the sound of the sea. It’s the kind of stay that pulls you completely into the moment.
In addition, their Suite Deluxe room has a window in the ceiling that makes nights even more special, as you can contemplate the stars.
FUTURE GROWTH POTENTIAL
The Puntagrande concept proves that small, authentic, eco-friendly stays are trending. As travelers search for exclusivity, sustainability, and meaning, microhotels like this one could inspire the next generation of boutique tourism.
Links:
Dinara K
Luis Sanchez Ibarra
George Stefan Poponet
Luisa Fernanda Raigozo Rey
Sebastian Duran Otaola
Science of the Time
tato (Glauco)
Pilar Peñalver Pumariño
Milana Moldovanov
Eva Jannat
Camila Altieri