Best Historical Hotels in Spain

A region popular for wine tourism, Rioja Alavesa (specifically the village of Samaniego) is home to this boutique two-storey establishment, part of the Edmond de Rothschild Heritage portfolio. The stunning front elevation features wrought iron balconies and with just 9 rooms, it feels more like you’re a mansion guest as you climb the 17th-century original stone staircase to bed. Suites are named after wines, designed using natural regional materials and filled with local crafts and artworks. Chef Bruno Coelho blends French and Basque flavours with farm-to-table dishes at Tierra y Vino Restaurant. Two terraces accommodate a charming spot for drinks and a stone-clad pool.

The Avante-Garde Hotel Hospes Amerigo Alicante occupies a refurbished Salesian convent making it a magnificent place from which to explore Alicante and let down your hair. Its playful and light rooms seamlessly blend Mediterranean architecture and modern comforts. The hotel’s Bodyna spa is unique as one can enjoy a massage all whilst gazing out over the city. Its Fondillon restaurant is a gastronomic delight serving marvellous local dishes with chefs using only the best local ingredients. For guests wanting a more relaxed dining experience the Barra Fondillon tapas bars provides guests with a casual dining and drinking experience inside a traditional Alicante bar. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy delicious cocktails and house music all whilst watching the sunset over Alicante. After a night of good food and drink guests can visit the hotel’s dedicated breakfast restaurant Terraza Calle Mayor which is the best way to start your day, on Sunday it even hosts a relaxed brunch.

Founded in 1912, this was named after the Spanish queen consort, who was the first to enter the hotel. Since then it has hosted many A-listers. The Maria Cristina lies close to the beach and right beside the River Urumea, a Grande Dame reminiscent of the Belle Epoque era. Original features are found beside more contemporary touches in its 139 bedrooms. And when it comes to meals, there’s a daily buffet breakfast, as well as two fine dining establishments: Café Saigon and Mimo San Sebastián. With a gym, a library, free bicycle hire, daily classes (including Michelin-style cooking) and a fine on-site deli to peruse, there’s plenty to amuse its high-end guests.

Occupying a refurbished building in the centre of Santander the Gran Hotel Sardinero is the perfect place from which to explore the delights of Santander with the Gran Casino and Magdelena Palace only moments away.  Whilst the hotel occupies a historic building its interior is modern and has a maritime feel to it. Its rooms are elegant and welcoming with many boasting glorious sea views and some having private terraces where guests can sit out and watch the sunset over the glorious Bay of Biscay. The hotel’s restaurant prides itself on its gastronomic excellence offering guests a range of traditional meals which are made only with the finest local produce. The restaurant is open and spacious making it the perfect place for fine dining.  The Gran Hotel Sardinero is a great choice for travellers who like relaxed luxury and who want to explore all the sites Santander has to offer.

Soho Boutique Palacio de Pombo, Santander comprises 64 luxurious guestrooms and suites. This boutique hotel is ideally located in the heart of the bustling city and is less than two kilometres from the beautiful sands of Playa Peligros and Playa El Sardinero II. A stay here ensures guests have all of the modern comforts they require while offering a contemporary sanctuary away from such a vibrant city. There is a breakfast buffet with gluten-free menus available to ensure all guests are catered for. This hotel truly extends a warm welcome to all, including furry friends – dogs are invited to accompany guests. Soho Boutique Palacio de Pombo offers an activity booking service including visits to Santander Festival Palace, the Casino, or the beautiful shores of Playa El Puntal.

Nestled in the heart of Mallorca’s idyllic countryside the historic Zoetry Mallorca occupies a restored 14th-century country estate boasting its very own neo-gothic chapel, windmill and Mallorcan manor house. Its 101 rooms and suites are inside these architecturally preserved buildings and seamlessly blend Mallorcan heritage with modern amenities. Zoetry’s Pure Spa by Natura Blisse offers guests many different world-class treatments and is the perfect way to switch off and relax. Yet Zoetrys piece de resistance is its restaurant Mediterranean created by the renowned chef Andreu Genestra. It not only boasts a Michelin star but also has a green Michelin star, the restaurant prides itself on its use of local produce and has its own farm and vineyard. Zoetry also offers The Endless Privileges package which offers guests the height of luxury, with bespoke and attentive service, unique experiences and endless dining and drinks. Zoetry is the perfect luxury boutique hotel for guests wishing to soak up the beauty of the Mallorcan interior and relax.

Set within Gothic stone cloisters this modern brand inhabits a property with five centuries of history. Located beside the River Arlazón and close to the cathedral, many of its 110 bedrooms enjoy views of one or the other. Guests will also appreciate the mod cons, such as Nespresso machines and super thick mattresses, as well as access to a gym and sauna. The restaurant, Palacio de la Merced, is renowned as one of the best in the city, serving fine local cuisine. The Palacio also offers 10 function rooms.

Every one of the 44 exterior bedrooms at the Gran Hotel La Perla has balconies looking onto Estafeta Street and Plaza del Castillo. There are also attic bedrooms and suites dedicated to former notable guests (including Ernest Hemingway, Orson Welles, Julián Gayarre and Víctor Eusa). Other famous names to have graced its corridors since its opening in 1881, are Charles Chaplin, Julio Iglesias and  Woody Allen. The hotel, the first five-star in the city, is set on Plaza del Castillo and has a breakfast room, as well as several meeting spaces.

This elegant establishment originally opened its doors to guests in 1929 and boasts a charming mix of ‘20s charm and luxurious modern conveniences. Sun worshippers are sure to enjoy soaking up the rays on the hotel’s private beach, while a pretty jetty can be found just a short stroll away. The hotel’s slightly elevated position provides guests with uninterrupted views of the bay from the main terrace, which is the perfect place to indulge in the generous daily breakfast buffet. The hotel also features tennis courts for guests to play a set or two on and special lessons are provided for guests on request so that they can brush up on their game during this special luxury break.

With its concept deeply rooted in the island’s culture, S’hotelet Des Born is centrally located in Ciutadella de Menorca, close to the infamous Plaza del Borne, found on Menorca’s stunning south eastern coast. Exquisitely designed, this five-star hotel truly is a sophisticated sanctuary. Enjoy the spacious rooms, nearby restaurants and spa. The Thalis Spa, built in an ancient cave forming part of the hotel’s basement, provides a peaceful oasis in which to relax and replenish.

Alcaufar Vell is a hotel and restaurant set in the countryside, yet only two kilometres from the beach. Enjoy its idyllic gardens and forest, swim in the pool or explore the nearby walking routes. You have all you need for a dream holiday. The rooms both exude comfort and look fantastic. The team at Alcaufar Vell, work together as a family to make you feel at home. The restaurant offers delicious food, an innovative cuisine which combines the best of the past and present. Food is made with fresh locally sourced products and in summer, served under the centenary olive trees. Alcaufar Vell caters for events, from business to wedding. This is a magical place, perfect to celebrate those special moments in your life.

Located in the heart of Ciutadell, looking out over an ancient harbour lies a remodelled palace. Hotel Can Faustino aim to give you a true Menorcan experience. They offer luxurious accommodation and delicious, locally sourced meals. They warmly welcome you aboard their boats for a sailing or motoring experience. Alternatively, you may prefer horse riding or a yoga session. The spa offers a range of treatments as well as an impressive indoor pool and Hammam. Hotel Can Faustino really is an amazing place to relax and enjoy.