The odd building out in Granada's modern commercial district, this neoclassical confection resembles a Sleeping Beauty palace that dozed off a hundred years ago, slumbering behind wrought-iron railings while the city grew around it. Built by a
a 19th-century sugar merchant, it has been revived by the Hospes group, which has achieved a remarkable renovation of a much-loved local landmark. This is a hotel in
two parts, though: facing the original across a series of fountains is a startling modern addition clad in alabaster chain-mail and containing the restaurant, spa (still to open
at time of press), plunge pool and 22 bedrooms each a pristine vision in white, distinguished only by the colour of sofa and rug. Such determined modernism makes
a welcome intrusion next door, where the 20 doubles and suites mix original details
floor mosaics, rose window, trompe-l'oeil ceilings (in the presidential suite, swifts
dart about a cloudy blue sky) with dramatic monochrome schemes, items such as mirrored bedside cubes, and specially commissioned metallic sinks you don't want
to get fingerprints on. Lest this all sounds too cool, the staff are very approachable, happy to explain everything from the in-room chocolate massage to the choice of three Mallorquin table salts in the restaurant. Don't take the lift down: the ornate, white marble staircase wooden cupola above and artful, hydra-like chandelier writhing down simply begs for a sweeping, regal descent.
WHEN TO GO
April for the warm spring air and the Semana Santa festival.
ROOM TO BOOK
The old library, room 30 (or Dracula's Bedroom, as staff call it), with faux-historic ceiling paintings, dark wooden bookshelves and mirrored wardrobe.
CONTACT
Solarillo de Gracia 1, Granada, Spain (00 34 958 535790; www.hospes.es).
COST
Doubles from 232 euros
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