No matter where in Spain you travel, we’ve sought out the most luxurious hotels around the country. From rural retreats set amongst olive groves and rolling hills, to avant-garde buildings bordering the vineyards of the Rioja, or sun-soaked haciendas that take you far away from the crowds, here are some of our favourite retreats.
Basque Country
This boutique hotel is set in a restored 17th-century palace and prides itself on its simple décor and delicate cuisine. Seemingly lost in the middle of the Basque countryside, this hotel provides prime access to some of the region’s best hiking trails.
Andalucia
Constructed by command of King Alfonso XIII of Spain in 1928, Hotel Alfonso XIII remains the place to stay for royalty, heads of state and those keen to share in its aura of history and glamour. Today its distinctive Mudéjar-style architecture of sweeping arches, decorative brickwork, wrought-iron, ornamental towers and ceramic finials continues to charm guests and locals alike.
A stunner of a resort, this whitewashed hotel sits upon 215 hectares of land, showcasing aspects of Castilian and Moorish architecture. On the sprawling grounds, jump into three pools, make the most of the 2,200 square-foot spa (including a unique ‘snow cave’ feature), head to the beach club just a short walk away, or partake in a bit of sport with tennis courts, a golf academy or one of Spain’s best golf courses.
In a renovated rural olive mill, with beautiful Ronda within sight, where traditional Spanish architecture meets post-modern design and eclectic furnishing. A ten-minute drive from cosmopolitan Ronda but with all the country house comforts to tempt you to just siesta by the pool or on the lawn.
The Santa Paula is ranked among Granada’s top hotels, providing topnotch service and amenities within the walls of a renovated convent—a perfect mix of modernity and history. Its 75 rooms are spacious and comfortable, while facilities include a fitness centre and sauna for exercise and relaxation. The hotel is ideally situated in the heart of the city, allowing easy foot access to the Alhambra and other areas of interest.
Camino de Santiago
Situated at the centre of the universe for millions of pilgrims, this spectacular hotel, initially built in the 15thC as a royal hospice, is right next door to the cathedral-shrine of St. James, and sits right on the main plaza of Santiago de Compostela. Dripping with gargoyles and four stunning courtyards in the Gothic/Renaissance style, you’ll also find religious art, rich tapestries and gorgeous sitting rooms and quiet corridors to wander within.
Catalonia
This quiet and serene hotel is located just outside of charming Figueres. Built in the 15thC, it is now a stylish, contemporary hotel with all modern amenities, yet it still retains its country charm thanks to the surrounding farmland. Mas Falgarona has been a labour of love for centuries with walls dating from the 15th, 17th and 21st century, the latter which transformed it to the hotel it is today. It is owned currently by a local family from Dali’s hometown of Figueres.
Translated to ‘The Unsatisfied One,’ this beautiful property was named after the mother of the owner whose perfectionism was a relentless force during the creation of the hotel. Its spacious environment extends outdoors to a great garden and pool, complementing a classic Mediterranean décor. The sea is a mere 15-minute walk away ending up at one of the most tranquil beaches along the Costa Brava.
A former 18thC Catalan farmhouse, this Relaix & Chateaux property is set amongst the medieval villages of the Lower Emporda, as well as the wine-growing region of the area. An outdoor pool, spa, tennis court, lush gardens and gorgeous farmland surroundings invite you to while away the time. The beaches of the Costa Brava and several golf courses are just a short drive away.
Mallorca
La Residencia, a 17thC manor house turned divine hotel, has everybody talking, including the folks at Condé Nast Traveler. Rumour has it the King of Spain has been known to drop in, as well as British royalty and several pop stars. Do they come for the spa treatments, the secluded gardens, the restaurant renowned as one of the best in all of Spain or to hear the 1887 Steinway piano? We suspect all of the above.
This minimal, modern hotel highlights the tranquility and beauty of Mallorca’s natural elements: sea and sky. The biggest draw here is its on-site thermal spa, the only place in the Balearic Islands with natural hot springs, first discovered by the Romans. Soak in peace in the therapeutic waters, take to nearby beaches, or swim in the outdoor pool for the ultimate hydrotherapy circuit.
Located in the city’s famed square, Placa de Cort, and heart of Palma de Mallorca, Hotel Cort offers guests 14 suites and 2 guest rooms, each designed by Lazaro Rosa-Violan. Once a 19thC bank, the hotel has been redesigned with Moorish tiled floors, maritime-chic designs, island-inspired details and features a stunning rooftop swimming pool and bar.
Rioja
Family-run for over 130 years, this 4-star property is set in the pedestrian heart of Pamplona. Its exceedingly warm Spanish welcome and large, comfortable rooms make for a relaxing stay, while the adventuresome are steps away from the cider and tapas bars that make this city lively year-round.
There’s room to roam at Le Domaine, a former 12thC abbey, which sits pretty amongst a whopping 1,730 acres of land (including 500 acres of vineyards and an on-site winery). From its magnificent vaulted ceilings, sandstone exterior and reverent atmosphere, this luxe retreat also features a 10,000-square-foot spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Nestled in the magical Rioja wine region, the Hotel Viura offers avant-garde architecture and impressive luxury, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows in each of the 33 guest rooms, a superb restaurant that doubles as an art installation and the most modern of technological amenities throughout. It also rests in the shadow of the magnificent San Andres Church.
Designed by Frank Gehry—responsible for the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum—the Marques de Riscal Hotel is a masterpiece of modernity. Inside, you’ll find 43 spacious, minimal rooms fitted with full amenities, marble baths, and high-speed Internet access. A Vinothérapie spa and amazing, unforgettable gastronomy round out this top-shelf property.
Parador Dos Reis, Santiago de Compostela