Granada is full of charming Moorish-style hotels set around pretty courtyards in the Albaicin. But if you want something more à la mode, head down busy Calle Recogidas to the Hospes Palacio de los Patos. Away from the tourists but still only 10 minutes from the Cathedral and 15 from Plaza Nueva, this stunning 19th-century mansion looks from the outside like a very grand private residence (which indeed it used to be: the Dutch consul once lived here). But step into the patio, and a dazzlingly contemporary glass-and-alabaster wing sets it off like the Louvre with its pyramid.
Inside, it's the same bold mixture. The Palacio's gracious marble staircase, trompe l'oeil ceilings, rose windows and tall wooden shutters (all beautifully restored) are the backdrop for some sharp 21st-century styling in the bedrooms (monochrome rugs, funky lighting, designer chaise-longues). In the New Wing, created by Catalan design guru Xavier Claramunt, it's so cool, it's almost clinical. Linking it all together is a maze of bright white corridors, while the communal areas are split between the 2 parts: beneath one of them a state-of-the-art spa offers a spoiling range of massages and treatments. All in all, it’s a brave blend of elegant and edgy – and it works.
Highs
- The bold juxtaposition of architectural styles has won accolades from travel and architecture publications alike
- Excellent classically Spanish food (try the paella), a buffet extravaganza at breakfast, and utterly charming waiters
- Underground Bodyna spa with indulgent treatments, a small swimming pool, a sauna and a Jacuzzi
- We loved the high ceilings and enormous bathroom in our Palacio room – very romantic and spoiling
- The beautifully lit outdoor terrace is the place to see and be seen on warm Granada nights
Lows
- It isn’t in the prettiest neighbourhood of Granada, but it is convenient from the motorway and only a 10 minute walk to more interesting areas
- The street can be noisy, but the clever double-window design ensures a quiet nights’ sleep
- The subterranean corridors are a bit maze-like
- The hotel car park is expensive, but this is standard for Granada
- We're not fans of their colour-coded system to indicate your in-room privacy preference
Best time to go
Any time of year. A visit to the Alhambra is extra special during the warmer months when you can also visit the palace complex at night (though not the Generalife). There is excellent walking close to the city in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and to be here in spring when the flowers are at their best is amazing. But winter visits are always memorable and to see the Alhambra with a snow-capped Sierra Nevada as backdrop is a sight never to be forgotten: even the bitterly cold winds that can blow down from the sierras don't detract from the experience.
Our top tips
The New Wing rooms are neat and bright, and might appeal to business travellers or design aficionados, but if you’re here on a romantic holiday, splash out on a suite in the Palacio. Granada is a hot spot for honeymooners and music lovers.
Location
Hospes Palacio de los Patos is situated on Solarillo de Gracia, off Calle Recogidas, in the central residential-commercial district of Granada. It's within 10 minutes' walk of the Cathedral, the Capilla Real, the old Jewish quarter, City Hall and the university; 15 minutes from the Albaicin district and Sacromonte, and 20-30 minutes from the Alhambra.
By Air
Fly into Granada (20km) or Malaga Pablo Ruiz Picasso (120km). The hotel offers a transfer upon request, or you can take a taxi from Granada airport. If you want to hire a car, the hotel has an underground car park (daily charge).
By Train
If you'd prefer to travel overland from the UK or elsewhere in Spain, check out Seat 61.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.
More on getting to Andalucia and getting around
Airports:
- Granada 20.0 km GRX
- Malaga Pablo Ruiz Picasso 120.0 km AGP
Other:
- Beach 60.0 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km