Parador de Hondarribia, San Sebastián

Pros

• You'll stay in a historic 10th-century castle that has welcomed famous guests like Emperor Carlos V, Felipe IV and V, and Velázquez.
• The Parador is in the charming city of Hondarribia on the Cantabrian coast, with a rich medieval history and a beautiful neighborhood of colorful houses with balconies.
• The Parador offers elegant, comfortable rooms with modern amenities, flat-screen TVs, and Chromecast technology.
• Gourmet local delicacies are available in the hotel's cafeteria, which has terrace seating.

Cons

• The Parador doesn't have a restaurant.
• Hondarribia is a 30-minute drive from San Sebastián.
• There's no spa or pool on-site.
• Cribs and extra beds are not available at this property.

Authenticity

The Hondarribia Parador is a gem in the 10th-century Castle of Carlos V on the Bidasoa River. Steeped in history, this castle has hosted notable royal guests and even the famed artist Velázquez. Inside, you can marvel at the beautiful tapestries designed by Rubens, inspired by the Story of Achilles.

Location

Located 30 minutes from San Sebastián and on the border with France, the city of Hondarribia is a popular spot on the Cantabrian coast. You can explore the historic center, starting from the Puerta de Santa María and ending at the Puerta de San Nicolás, while admiring the main street, medieval layout, and beautiful walls of the La Marina neighborhood, all within walking distance.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at the Hondarribia Parador blend design and contemporary services seamlessly, providing comfort, elegance, and wonderful views of the surrounding area. Each room has high-quality furniture—some antique—and modern marble bathrooms with bath and shower combos. If you want to feel like you're truly in a castle, opt for an upgraded room with lofts, exposed brick, arched stone ceilings, and other nods to the past. 

Amenities

The main highlight of the Parador is its history, which you can enjoy in its halls with magnificent panoramic views of the Plaza de Armas. There's also a charming inner garden surrounded by old stone and greenery, plus a few other terraces with views of the sea and Old Town rooftops. There's a concierge, a tour desk, and an elevator, but only one room is wheelchair accessible. 

Family-Friendliness

Parador de Hondarribia welcomes children of all ages, but the hotel's atmosphere isn't ideal for families. Cribs and extra beds are not available, and there aren't any child-specific amenities or babysitting on offer. If traveling with children, a suite is the best choice. 

Other Highlights

There's no restaurant at the hotel, but a daily breakfast buffet is served in the hotel's cafeteria and outdoor terrace. In the cafeteria, guests can find local specialties like cheeses from Iparralde, anchovies from Guetaria, and a selection of cakes and tarts made on-site. There's also a full bar and various areas to sit and enjoy drinks, including the terrace with pretty views of the Cantabrian coast.