The Artist - Grand Hotel of Art, Bilbao

Location

The Artist enjoys the enviable privilege of being the only luxury hotel opposite the Guggenheim Museum – surely the city’s finest address. As such, you’ll have Bilbao’s emblematic arts district on your doorstep, providing easy access to the likes of the Fine Arts Museum, the skyscraping Iberdola Tower and the Euskalduna Palace – the city’s superb concert hall. For some green respite, head to the next-door Parque República de Abando. Here, running tracks and leafy walks bring you among yet more of the city’s iconic modernist architecture.

Accommodation

Perhaps taking notes from its famous neighbour, The Artist proudly exhibits its contemporary sensibilities. In each of its rooms, clean lines and blonde wood accents frame splashes of colour, provided by comfortable furnishings. You’ll also be well looked after, with a pillow menu, luxury bathroom amenities and giant 40” HD TVs. Upgrades add in city views, often taken with a private terrace. The best look directly onto the Guggenheim’s spectacular architecture.

Dining

Start your day with breakfast on the hotel’s terrace, overlooking the shimmering gold curves of the Guggenheim. It’s comprised of local produce, with homemade pastries and made-to-order cooked options among the highlights. Wash it down with a natural juice, smoothie, or, for a special occasion, cava. For lunch and dinner, head to Le Cafe. Daily set menus and à la carte offerings make the most of regional specialities, in dishes such as acorn-quality Iberian ham, fillet steak medallions and lamb carré. A room service is also available 24 hours a day

Facilities

As the hotel’s mantra goes, The Artist features “the only gym in Bilbao overlooking the Guggenheim”. It is something to shout about, though, with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment looking directly onto that famous architecture. If relaxation is more your thing, make your way to Bar Sixty One. Whether it’s a quick glass of wine on the counter or an indulgent sangria on the comfy sofas, it’s the perfect end to a day’s exploration. It even serves a delightful range of snacks and appetisers.