Hotel Alhambra Palace, Granada

Location

This luxury property is just a five minutes’ walk from its historic namesake – the Alhambra. Translating from Arabic as ‘The Red Castle’, it’s a great citadel whose 9th-century ramparts look out over Granada and its river valley from their hilltop perch. However, it wasn’t until the 13th century and the arrival of the Nasrid dynasty that a royal residence was established. Today, it’s a UNESCO-listed jewel that combines medieval severity with palatial excess. Turning the other way, you’ll be greeted by Granada’s old town, with its tumbling, white-walled houses split by a narrow, alleyway maze. It’s the arresting backdrop for tapas bars, counter-culture art and flamenco performances.

Accommodation

Inspired by its famous neighbour, the Alhambra Palace’s sandstone-coloured walls are capped with castellated fortifications and a great, sweeping dome. The traditional styling continues with rooms that feature patterned ceilings, classical furnishing and rich fabrics. Each either overlooks the lush forest of the Alhambra or Granada and its fertile plain. For something extra special, book into a Junior Suite where marbled flooring and sweeping views are complemented by mosaicked en suites, complete with sunken baths. And, opened by King Alfonso XIII in 1910, this grandeur has hosted everyone from presidents and royalty to playwrights and Hollywood stars.

Dining

Indebted to Granada’s geographic diversity, the menus at the hotel’s delightful restaurant are richly varied. There’s fish from Motril, fruits from the Lecrin Valley and exotic crops of Costa Tropical. It all goes into crafting Mediterranean flavours, showcased in dishes such as baked hake, roasted deer loin and vegetable ravioli. Perhaps add in a soup start – the beef consommé with sherry wine and black truffles is particularly good – as you take in the restaurant’s sweeping views over the city.

Facilities

A historic property built at the turn of the century, the Alhambra does not offer resort-style amenities. Instead, you’ll find a delightful bar terrace where you’ll be able to enjoy some of the region’s finest varietals; Granada is currently enjoying something of an oenological renaissance. Otherwise, you’ll be treated to room service and complimentary WiFi, along with the benefits of the hotel’s superb location. The Generalife gardens are just a stroll away, along with the riding trails that span the Alhambra’s forest.