Mokara Hotel & Spa, San Antonio

Location

Located on the world-famous San Antonio river walk, the hotel is within walking distance of the city’s historical landmarks. More Europe than Texas, walking out of the front lobby will bring you to a thriving bistro and café scene that lines the river loop’s banks. Historical sites such as the Alamo, a mission where a hundred American troops died fighting off over a thousand Mexican soldiers, are within walking distance. For authentic Mexican food there’s the Historic Market Square, only half a mile away.

Accommodation

Escape the heat in one of the hotel’s 99 guest rooms and suites, featuring high ceilings and furnishings finished with wood and marble touches; luxurious bathrooms with Jacuzzi baths are a particular highlight. Hand-forged iron four-poster beds give rooms a designer feel and Spa Rooms come with a Jacuzzi soaking tub for two along with balcony views of the river walk. For even better sightlines, the River View Rooms look out over the Paseo del Rio as barges float by below.

Dining

The hotel’s main offering, Ostra, is an AAA Four Diamond seafood restaurant that serves a variety of tempting dishes. Its acclaimed oyster bar is especially good and includes clams, crab, shrimp and, of course, oysters. To round things off, the restaurants wine list features over 70 labels and has recently won the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. For lighter fare and some of the best views of the city, Mokara’s rooftop café serves salads, sandwiches, desserts and, in the evening, cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.

Facilities

To match its café, the heated rooftop pool offers similarly excellent city vistas as you escape from San Antonio’s bustle. And, if you’re feeling more energetic, there’s a 24-hour fitness centre, complete with state-of-the-art cardiovascular and weights equipment. Lastly, recognised by both Travel & Leisure and Condé Nast Traveller, Mokara has the only four star spa in San Antonio. Attentive staff tailor sessions to your aches and pains with a range of body and facial treatments available along with a full salon menu.