Hotel Casa del Limonero – Review

Casa del Limonero offers a refined, intimate stay that blends contemporary creativity with centuries-old Andalusian heritage. Within this restored Sevilla mansion, guests discover a tranquil courtyard, a lush walled garden, a private pool, and a rooftop with views of the Giralda, all curated with the eye of the Parisian art collector owner, and the warmth of a gracious host, General Manager Martina Cam.

The story of Sevilla is woven into the very walls of this property. Roman Hispalis stones form part of the structure; Mudéjar arches surround the courtyard, while historic Andalusian tiles, uncovered during restoration, have been creatively reintegrated into bathrooms and common areas. Over six years, this once-private home has been restored and transformed by a Parisian art collector into one of the city’s most characterful stays.

From the street, there’s no clue to what lies behind the wooden front door. The whitewashed walls and wrought-iron rejas blend quietly into the Santa Cruz quarter. But step inside, and you’re greeted by shade, the sound of water, and the shimmer of a vast mirrored sphere suspended above the entrance patio, the first of many playful art moments.

Arrival

In reception, guests sink into the ‘Alligator’ seat, a sculptural chair by the Campana Brothers made of plush leather crocodile toys. Behind the desk, a spectacular mural of ancient ceramic and marble tiles, unearthed beneath the house, sets the tone of history and art. Once the dining room floor of the mansion, this 15th-century almatraya mosaic, featuring deer motifs linked to the Marmolejo family, the original owners, and now used as the hotel’s design motif, was painstakingly restored by local artist Carmen Riego and her team using over 3,000 fragments.

We were welcomed by General Manager Martina Cam, whose warm, discreet presence and insider knowledge elevated the experience further. Martina offers fascinating insights into the more than 3,000 square metres of property.

Curated Guest Rooms

Each of the 14 rooms is its own small universe. They span three floors and combine original features with bespoke design, filled with art pieces. Through corridors, the public salons, the library and the rooms you can see hundreds of works, including pieces by Olga de Amaral, Manolo Valdés, Joana Vasconcelos, and photography by Malick Sidibé.

In our suite, the Cabinet of Curiosities, stories linger in every detail. Once the study of former mayor Félix Moreno de la Cova, it’s now lined with cabinets filled with books, and collectibles from across the world. The bathroom mirror is a work of art in itself, and even a visit to the WC turns into an encounter with a digital art installation.

All rooms feature air conditioning, underfloor heating, international television, Nespresso machines and L’Occitane amenities. The minibar, replenished daily, is also included.

Each room has playful details like a decommissioned Lufthansa airline trolley or ancient strong box, serving as the minibar, and the creativity continues in every space. One of the lifts is lined with vintage Louis Vuitton trunks, a tribute to travelling in style.

Each suite includes a scroll which is a thoughtful guide to the art and furnishings within. From the designer garment hangers to the vintage rocking chair on the terrace, everything is considered and original.

Courtyards and Gardens

The main courtyard, framed by Mudéjar-style arches, invites guests to linger in its shaded calm. The property opens out to a private garden, a secluded sanctuary of orange trees, palms, wild planting and the sound of birdsong and church bells. The terrace beside it has a green-tiled pool at its heart. Even in the heat of high summer, the garden remains cool, protected by high walls. Poolside loungers and parasols evoke vintage glamour, while the hammam pool towels echo the surrounding green tiles.

Early mornings here are best spent in the swing seat, coffee in hand, with the scent of orange blossom and the chime of church and cathedral bells. Afternoons drift by slowly beside the pool, and in the evening, the rooftop terrace offers one of Sevilla’s most magical settings.

From here, the view stretches over terracotta roofs to the cathedral and iconic Giralda bell tower. One of our favourite memories was sipping wine and devouring slices of local goat’s cheese and prized jamón ibérico, with swallows circling and diving overhead.

Dining

Breakfast becomes its own quiet ritual, whether taken in the dining room or in the garden. Fresh produce is sourced locally, with a simple menu of typical tomato on toast, local pastries, and eggs made to order. You can step into the kitchen and help yourself from the buffet as if at home. Drinks and light snacks are available throughout the day, with drinks served until 11 pm.

The salon, with its seashell-shaped fireplace designed by Ernesto de Ceano, becomes a winter refuge. In warmer months, the garden and terrace come into their own. Casa del Limonero balances all seasons with ease, cool in summer, cosy in winter.

The location places you within walking distance of Seville’s treasures including the Alcázar, the Cathedral, galleries, and the city’s tapas bars, including our favourite, Cervecería Salmedina, offering the most extraordinary tapas and dishes prepared with the finest produce from the Bay of Cadiz, served with a great wine list and of course, cold Seville beer.

For further inspiration, read The Luxury Editor Eat Sleep Do Guide to Seville here.