Gran Hotel La Perla, Pamplona

Pros

• The hotel is in a great location at the edge of Plaza del Castillo and the famous Running of the Bulls route.
• The rooms are uniquely designed, with decorations commemorating the rooms where famous guests such as Ernest Hemingway once resided.
• Breakfast trays and round-the-clock room service are available. 
• All rooms have balconies with views of Calle de la Estafeta or Plaza del Castillo.
• There's a library that offers a special collection of books with dedications from writers who have stayed in the hotel. 

Cons

• Limited amenities: the hotel doesn't have a pool, spa, or gym. 
• No restaurant or bar at the hotel for lunch and dinner.

Authenticity

Open since 1881, Gran Hotel La Perla has a long history of writers, artists, and royalty passing through. The hotel has preserved and decorated some of its 44 rooms to commemorate the famous guests of past years. Many of the rooms are named after these historical figures, and inside them, travelers will find ornate rugs, carved wood features, and painted walls that celebrate notable figures such as Ernest Hemingway and King Alfonso XII. Hemingway's room remains untouched, providing a glimpse into the author's time in Pamplona. The hotel also features an original and restored chandelier above the main stairwell and a library filled with books signed by former literary guests. 

Location

Located in the busy center of Pamplona, Gran Hotel La Perla is ideally positioned to explore the city's iconic attractions. The hotel overlooks the lively Plaza del Castillo and the famous Calle de la Estafeta, where the Running of the Bulls takes place during the San Fermín festival. It's a short walk to the Catedral de Pamplona and the Church of San Saturnino, both within a 5-minute stroll. The surrounding area is densely packed with restaurants, bars, and cafés, offering a lively atmosphere and excellent walkability for all dining and shopping needs. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at Gran Hotel La Perla are a mixture of historical charm and modern comforts. Many of the rooms are uniquely decorated to commemorate famous guests who have stayed in the hotel, and such rooms are named after the famous guests. Each room features a balcony with views of either Calle de la Estafeta or Plaza del Castillo, allowing for plenty of natural light and views of the surrounding city. The rooms have firm but comfortable mattresses and a pillow menu for personalized comfort. Bathrooms are sleek and modern, with walk-in showers featuring hydromassage showerheads, and some rooms offer separate bathtubs. All of the bathrooms include robes and complimentary toiletries. 

Amenities

The hotel has limited amenities, as there's no pool, gym, spa, or restaurant. However, breakfast trays are available, as are room services 24 hours a day. The hotel's library features a collection of books signed by past literary guests. Free valet parking is included in the parking fee for travelers staying with a car. 

Family-Friendliness

Gran Hotel La Perla is family-friendly, offering cribs at no extra charge, optional extra beds in rooms, and paid babysitting services by request. Several larger suites are available for families looking to stay in one room. The round-the-clock room service offers a dedicated children's menu. The hotel has an elevator for families traveling with a stroller.