10 of the Best Small Luxury Hotels in Basque Country

Hotel Marqués de Riscal, ELCIEGO

Located in Elciego, in La Rioja’s Álava province, the Hotel Marqués de Riscal is a stunning luxury hotel designed by Frank Gehry. This avant-garde hotel offers free WiFi, a spa, and two restaurants for guests to enjoy. The Marqués de Riscal Restaurant serves dishes from Northern Spain, while the 1860 Tradición Restaurant offers traditional Spanish cuisine with a modern twist using local produce. The unique rooms at the Hotel Marqués de Riscal feature distinctive zig-zag window seats with breathtaking views of the valley. The black marble bathrooms are fully equipped and include a hairdryer. Guests can indulge in grape-based treatments at the Vinothérapie Spa, by Caudalie Marqués de Riscal or relax in the indoor pool, hammam, Finnish sauna and fitness center. Breakfast is served as a tasting menu style experience. At the top of the hotel is a rooftop library-lounge and wine bar where panoramic views can be admired from eight terraces. To enhance your visit, the hotel organizes wine tours around their vineyards and provides access to Vivanco Museum – Europe’s largest wine museum. With its convenient location near AP-68 Motorway from Bilbao to Zaragoza, Hotel Marqués de Riscal ensures easy accessibility for guests.

Pros:
1. Striking architecture by renowned designer Frank Gehry
2.Interior design that blends modern elegance with comfort
3.Exquisite dining options showcasing regional cuisine with innovative twists
4.Luxurious amenities including an exclusive spa offering grape-based treatments
5.Breathtaking views of the valley from unique zig-zag window seat features in most rooms

Hotel Silken Indautxu

Hotel Silken Indautxu is a centrally located urban hotel in Bilbao, just 400 meters from the Indautxu metro station. It is situated in the heart of Bilbao's museum triangle, surrounded by the Guggenheim Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and Azkuna Alhóndiga. This prime location not only allows for easy sightseeing but also provides access to the city's best shops and pintxo bars. The hotel offers various dining options including Etxaniz restaurant which focuses on local Basque gastronomy, serving both a menu of the day and a la carte dishes. The recently renovated Gastro bar El Muelle features an outdoor terrace with a vibrant atmosphere ideal for enjoying dinner or drinks. For those looking for a quick bite or express breakfasts with regional flavors, the Meat & Soul cafeteria offers delectable pintxos and savory dishes.

Hotel Tayko Bilbao

Hotel Tayko Bilbao is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Bilbao. Built in 1924, this historic property offers a unique blend of classic elegance and modern comforts. With its prime location, just steps away from Arriaga Theatre and Catedral de Santiago, and a short walk from the iconic Guggenheim Museum, Hotel Tayko Bilbao is the ideal base for exploring the city's cultural gems. The hotel boasts two exceptional dining options – Ola and La bodega de Ola – both managed by renowned Michelin-starred chef Martin Berasategui. Guests can indulge in exquisite Basque cuisine without leaving the comfort of the hotel. The staff at the 24-hour front desk are fluent in German, English, Spanish, and Basque, ensuring personalized assistance throughout your stay. Each room is elegantly appointed with modern amenities including a flat-screen TV and private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. For those seeking luxury accommodations paired with convenience and style, Hotel Tayko Bilbao is an excellent choice.

– Prime location near major attractions
– Two Michelin-starred restaurants on-site
– Multilingual staff providing personalized service
– Stylish rooms with modern amenities
– Charming boutique atmosphere

Mercure Monte Igueldo

Nestled on the picturesque Mount Igueldo, Mercure Monte Igueldo boasts a stunning location that offers breathtaking views of San Sebastian Bay. The hotel features an inviting outdoor pool, perfect for a refreshing dip during the summer months. With its attractive classic decor, the spacious rooms at Mercure Monte offer splendid vistas of either the Bay of Biscay or San Sebastian city. Every room is equipped with satellite TV and a minibar, while select rooms also boast private balconies. Indulge in a delightful culinary experience at El Torreón Restaurant, which serves up a delectable selection of gourmet cuisine and traditional Basque dishes. For lighter fare or drinks, guests can head to the cozy bar or coffee shop located on-site. Exploring the surroundings is easy as the hotel is conveniently situated next to San Sebastian's old lighthouse, providing access to Playa de la Concha Beach via cable car. In addition, the city center is just 1.8 km away from this charming retreat.

Pros:
– Spectacular views of San Sebastian Bay
– Outdoor pool for relaxation and leisure
– Spacious rooms with various options for scenic views
– Delectable dining options including gourmet cuisine and Basque specialties
– Convenient location near cable car access to Playa de la Concha Beach

Hotel Palacio Urgoiti

Hotel Palacio Urgoiti is a small luxury hotel located in a 17th-century palace, offering stunning views in a peaceful and natural setting. Situated just 12 km from the center of Bilbao and 5 km from Bilbao Sondika Airport, this hotel provides convenient access to both the city and the airport. Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the indoor heated pool and fitness center, as well as free WiFi and parking. The spacious rooms are tastefully decorated with elegant furnishings and include amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, safe, and a complimentary bottle of water. The bathrooms come equipped with free toiletries, a magnifying mirror, bath or shower options, and a hairdryer. For dining options, guests can savor delicious Basque cuisine at the Harria restaurant or relax at the bar and terrace that offer an enticing bistro menu. Additionally, Hotel Palacio Urgoiti is surrounded by a 9-hole Pitch & Putt golf course and a driving range spanning 200 meters. Within just a short drive away are the beautiful beaches of the Costa Vasca.

– Indoor heated pool
– Free WiFi
– Free parking on site
– Elegant rooms with modern amenities
– Convenient location for exploring Bilbao

Parador de Hondarribia

Parador de Hondarribia is a stunning 10th-century castle that offers a luxurious stay with its charming courtyard terrace and another terrace boasting fantastic views of the Bidasoa Estuary. The castle's original arches and medieval features, including suits of armor, cannons, and spears, add to its historical charm. The hotel provides banquet rooms, courtyards, and other delightful spaces where guests can unwind with a drink from the bar. The modern rooms feature wooden floors and are equipped with amenities such as a flat-screen TV, safe, minibar, and private bathroom with a hairdryer. Guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast at the café or explore the nearby seafood restaurants within walking distance in Hondarribia. The seafront promenade is just 250 meters away while the beach is 2 km from the hotel. With San Sebastián only a 20-minute drive away and Biarritz reachable in 35 minutes by car, Parador de Hondarribia offers an ideal location for exploring these vibrant cities.

– Impressive 10th-century castle setting
– Charming courtyard terrace
– Spectacular views of Bidasoa Estuary
– Unique medieval features throughout
– Convenient proximity to San Sebastián and Biarritz

Hotel Viura (Villabuena de Álava)

Hotel Viura is a boutique hotel located in Villabuena de Álava, in the heart of the La Rioja Alavesa Wine Region. This design hotel offers guests free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Sierra de la Cantabria Mountains. During the summer months, guests can also enjoy complimentary access to a public swimming pool adjacent to the hotel. Hotel Viura provides an array of amenities for wine enthusiasts, including regular wine tasting sessions and tours of nearby wineries. The stylish rooms feature a minibar stocked with complimentary sparkling and still water, as well as heating, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with DVD players and access to an extensive DVD library. Each room includes a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. The hotel's à la carte restaurant serves regional cuisine accompanied by an impressive selection of wines from its cellar. Guests can also take advantage of the fitness room or explore the area on bicycles available for rent at no extra cost. With its convenient location between Logroño and Haro, Hotel Viura is perfectly situated for discovering all that La Rioja has to offer. Visitors can easily arrange visits to renowned wineries such as Ysios and Marqués de Riscal through the property's concierge service. For those seeking relaxation, various massage treatments are offered on-site.

– Free WiFi
– Spectacular rooftop terrace with mountain views
– Complimentary access to nearby public swimming pool during summer
– Regular wine tastings and tours of nearby wineries
– Stylish rooms with minibars stocked with complimentary beverages

Hotel Meliá Bilbao

The Meliá Bilbao is a luxury hotel located just 300 metres from the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Inspired by the renowned sculptor Eduardo Chillida, the hotel boasts a design that showcases his artistry. Guests can indulge in the heated outdoor swimming pool, savor exquisite cuisine at the award-winning Aizian Restaurant (which received a Michelin star in 2014), and stay fit at the well-equipped gym. The rooms are luxurious and feature modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and a pillow menu. Additionally, guests can enjoy tapas and cocktails at Q Lounge while marveling at stunning views of Doña Casilda Park from its terrace. For ultimate relaxation, head to the fitness room on the 6th floor, which offers panoramic views of Bilbao's Nervión River, along with a sauna and various massage treatments. Conveniently situated within walking distance of popular attractions such as Bellas Artes Museum and Palacio de Congresos Exhibition Centre, as well as major landmarks like Guggenheim Museum and San Mames Stadium; Hotel Meliá Bilbao truly embodies luxury living.

– Prime location near Guggenheim Museum
– Heated outdoor swimming pool
– Award-winning dining options
– Stylish Q Lounge with great views
– Well-equipped fitness room on the top floor

Villa Magalean Hotel & Spa (Hondarribia)

Villa Magalean Hotel & Spa is a charming boutique hotel located in Hondarribia, just 2.4 km from Grande Beach. This 4-star hotel offers a range of amenities including a terrace, private parking, a restaurant and bar. Guests can enjoy daily breakfast with à la carte, continental and American options. The hotel provides excellent service with a 24-hour front desk, concierge service, tour desk, airport transfers and free WiFi throughout the property. Each air-conditioned room is well-appointed with modern comforts such as a desk, kettle, minibar, safety deposit box and flat-screen TV. The private bathrooms include a bidet along with complimentary toiletries. Bed linen and towels are provided for all guests' convenience. With FICOBA located only 5.1 km away and Hendaye Train Station at 5.8 km distance, Villa Magalean Hotel & Spa offers easy access to nearby attractions. San Sebastián Airport is also conveniently situated just 1 km from the hotel.

– Charming boutique hotel
– Terrace overlooking the area
– Excellent concierge service
– Convenient on-site dining options
– Close proximity to popular sightseeing spots

Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao

Hotel Ercilla is a modern luxury hotel located in the heart of Bilbao. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a fitness center and stylish rooms with flat-screen satellite TVs, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The hotel's Bar Americano offers delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options with a special focus on Basque cuisine and cocktails. For stunning views of Bilbao, guests can head to La Terraza, a rooftop cocktail bar that also serves food. The hotel's prime location allows for easy access to Bilbao's famous Guggenheim Museum, just a 15-minute walk away. Additionally, there is a metro station conveniently located across the road from the hotel that provides quick access to the beach within 20 minutes.

– Modern luxury accommodations
– Convenient location near Guggenheim Museum
– Fitness center for guest use
– Rooftop cocktail bar with beautiful views
– Easy access to beach via nearby metro station