Discover Luxury: The Best Hotels in San Sebastián for a Memorable Stay in the Basque Country
San Sebastián, nestled in the Basque Country, is renowned as a global gastronomic haven. While the city boasts an impressive 19 Michelin stars among its numerous eateries, the world of characterful hotels has recently flourished, offering a perfect complement to its culinary excellence. Explore the best hotels in San Sebastián, each with its unique charm and allure.
Nobu San Sebastian
Location: Miraconcha Promenade
Nobu San Sebastian effortlessly blends Japanese simplicity with French palatial style. Situated on the Miraconcha promenade, this hotel by interior designer Tomas Alía offers a delicate yet luxurious ambiance. Guest rooms exude elegance with straight lines, imposing headboards, and a neutral color palette. The rooftop infinity pool provides stunning sea views, and the restaurant, featuring Nobu’s beloved classics, is a culinary delight.
Mendi Argia
Location: Base of Mount Ulia
Transformed from a villa into a boutique hotel, Mendi Argia, located at the base of Mount Ulia, seamlessly combines contemporary design with its traditional structure. The restoration by Openhouse Studio preserves the villa’s links to the landscape, creating an environment of oak, terracotta, and black marble. Partnering with local restaurants, the hotel offers an on-site dinner service, making it a tranquil retreat.
Hotel Arbaso
Location: Centro Neighborhood
Revitalizing San Sebastián’s Centro neighborhood, Hotel Arbaso occupies a 19th-century apartment block near the neo-Gothic Cathedral. This boutique property merges contemporary Basque-style with dark-hued minimalism, showcasing natural materials and elegant austerity. The spacious suites offer perfect views of the Cathedral, while the Narru restaurant, helmed by Chef Iñigo Peña, adds to the burgeoning culinary scene in Centro.
Villa Soro
Location: Gros District
Once a frowzy summer house, Villa Soro, dating back to 1898, has undergone a transformative six-month overhaul. Designed by Núria Ferrer, the hotel seamlessly combines original elements, such as a carved wooden staircase, with new furnishings and modern Basque art. Adorned in fine wallpapers and rich fabrics, Villa Soro now exudes a fresh, fin-de-siècle ambiance.
Lasala Plaza
Location: Old Harbor
Housed in a grand 1917 building, Lasala Plaza cleverly embraces both tranquility and vibrancy. Situated between an old-town square and the bustling old harbor, the hotel features modern rooms with a clean, airy design. With a rooftop solarium boasting a swimming pool and bar, Lasala Plaza offers a unique vantage point to enjoy the sunset over Santa Clara island.
Villa Favorita
Location: Behind La Concha Beach
Villa Favorita, an offshoot of the renowned Hotel Londres, charms with its chic 23-room townhouse hotel. Designed by Rafael Sitges, the interiors exude bold glamour with maritime-inflected brass fittings and antique furniture. The basement houses the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Amelia, making Villa Favorita a sophisticated choice near La Concha beach.
Hotel Maria Cristina
Location: Beside River Urumea
A timeless gem, Hotel Maria Cristina, opened in 1912, stands beside the river Urumea, offering unparalleled views of Rafael Moneo’s Kursaal building. The hotel, named after Spain’s regent queen, boasts a voluptuous interior with a soft-edged color scheme. With its rich history and heritage, Hotel Maria Cristina provides charming and discreet service, creating an intimate, grand private household atmosphere.
Akelarre
Location: Igeldo Hill
Unveiled in 2017, Akelarre, designed by Marta Urtasun and Pedro Rica, is a cut above the average restaurant with rooms. Located on Igeldo hill, the modernist hotel features 22 rooms with a neutral aesthetic and wide-screen views. Only a 10-minute drive from downtown, Akelarre offers a peaceful retreat immersed in San Sebastián’s stunning landscapes.
Zinema7
Location: Amara Neighborhood
Situated on the site of the beloved Astoria cinema, Zinema7 in the Amara neighborhood pays homage to the film industry. With breezy contemporary rooms named after actors and directors, the hotel features a library of film books and a collection of DVDs for guests. Themed with coherence and humor, Zinema7 offers a fun and family-friendly experience.
Indulge in luxury and unforgettable experiences at these top hotels in San Sebastián, where culinary delights, stunning views, and impeccable design converge for a memorable stay.