Hotel Arbaso San Sebastian

Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop

Set the scene

Step inside the distinct environs of Hotel Arbaso and one immediately gets embraced by the vibrant fusion of traditional heritage and modern trendiness. Oak beams complement the contemporary furnishings, bestowing an enticing charm to the decor which radiates an aura of warmth and hospitality. Artworks inspired by Basque culture adorn the walls, acting as symbolic illustrations of the region's rich culture and history, adding a certain depth to the ambiance.

Every corner within the Arbaso Hotel tells a tale of San Sebastian, whisking you away to a different era yet maintaining a comfortable bond with the present. Surrounded by tasteful minimalism accentuated with bursts of color, you witness the smooth co-existence of tradition and innovation, providing an enchanting contrast highlighted in the design elements.

What can we expect in our room at Hotel Arbaso

Walking into one of the Arbaso Hotel's rooms in the heart of San Sebastian, Spain, guests are immediately struck by the tasteful fusion of modern design aesthetics with occasional nods to the city's deeply ingrained Basque culture. Each of the 44 rooms, spread throughout five floors, is a peaceful sanctuary within the city's Old Town, featuring minimalist white walls, custom furniture highlighted by locally crafted fabrics, and chic lighting fixtures that give off a soft, warm glow.

The rooms offer various layouts to cater to diverse needs, with types ranging from sleek single rooms to more spacious deluxe suites. Here, comfort is paramount, evident through the plush hypoallergenic linens, large windows that capture the city's mesmerizing views, and soothing earth tone color palette that promotes relaxation.

Modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a well-stocked minibar add to a stay that marries comfort with convenience seamlessly. The en-suite bathrooms carry forward the design principles of simplicity and elegance, fitted with walk-in rain showers and stocked with eco-friendly bath products. Thoughtful touches like a Nespresso machine and a soundproof atmosphere truly create a restful sanctuary right in the center of the city.

How about the food and drinks

The hotel houses an in-house restaurant, Narru by Chef Iñigo Peña, that features an exquisite Basque menu that is a blend of both traditional and innovative culinary arts. Indigenous fresh produce and seafood are woven into their recipes, rendering you the authentic flavors of Basque gastronomy.

If you are more inclined towards a laid back rendezvous, the hotel’s chic bar is an inviting space with a range of cocktails and spirits. Knowledgeable bartenders, who are storytellers of sorts, bring flavors alive with their impressive craft. Each drink they make promises to be an unforgettable sensory journey.

What is the service like at the Arbaso Hotel

You are warmly welcomed by a team of multilingual staff members as soon as you arrive at the hotel. Their inherent attention to hospitality is instantly palpable; their manner friendly and engaging, ensuring you feel right at home from the get-go. The hotel team is well-informed about the city’s attractions, willing to offer you top-notch advice on sightseeing and local cuisine, helping you to uncover the best San Sebastian has to offer.

Delving deeper into your stay, you'll discover the staff's meticulous attention to detail in providing a clean, safe, and comfortable environment. The service is brisk, yet never rushed, blending the right measures of professional efficiency and personal touch. Whether it's housekeeping taking the extra effort to fluff your pillows just right or the concierge making reservations for you at a coveted restaurant in town, the staff's dedication to service excellence shines through.

What’s the neighbourhood scene like?

The neighborhood is buzzing with an eclectic mixture of both old-world charm and contemporary flair. Century-old tapas bars and quirky, vintage shops adorn the narrow, winding streets - they ingeniously commingle with cosmopolitan boutiques and sophisticated art galleries, painting an enthralling picture of contrasts. There are also several historical landmarks within walking distance, such as the iconic Concha Beach and the majestic San Sebastian Cathedral.

Every year, the San Sebastian Film Festival, a prestigious event attracting cinephiles from across the globe, often transforms the vicinity into a glamorous, star-studded spectacle. During this period, you find the neighborhood pulsating with an infectious energy as fervent film enthusiasts and glittering celebrities throng the streets. On a typical day, you can also witness the tranquil life of locals, engaging in unhurried conversations at cafés and leisurely strolls in the nearby Urumea River promenade. At night, the district comes alive with vibrant nightspots offering delectable pintxos and local wines.

What’s the backstory

Its unique backstory begins in the early 20th century, when it was first established by the Arbaso family as a quaint, family-run guest house. Over the years, however, the property changed numerous owners, each leaving their distinctive mark on this historic establishment. These transitions not only influenced the architectural design of the building but also helped shape its distinguished reputation as one of the city's most charming hotels.

In recent years, the Hotel was acquired and renovated by a local entrepreneur, who was passionate about preserving its unique heritage. While updating the interiors to meet the expectations of modern travelers, careful thought was given to respecting the hotel’s historical elements. Particular attention was paid to conserving the original facade and some interior elements, resulting in a successful blend of old-world charm and contemporary facilities.

Price Range

Room rates, you'll be pleased to know, perform a delicate balancing act, offering luxury and comfort without the luxury price tag. With prices starting from around 150 Euros per night during off-peak seasons and rising to approximately 300 Euros during peak periods, the rate spectrum caters to a variety of budgets and travel plans. Variables such as the type of room selected, duration of stay, and time of booking will also naturally impact the final cost.

You can also save by looking out for occasional special offers and promotions run by the hotel. These beneficial deals often include discounts on room rates or complimentary services such as meals, access to hotel facilities, or even guided tours around San Sebastian.

Amenities & Facilities

When you glance through the list of hotel features, you'll be impressed by the wide array that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay – think 24-hour front desk, gym, fitness center, and a sauna offering various therapies. The hotel also provides an on-site parking facility, so you can cross off 'parking troubles' from your list of worries.

Keeping in mind the tech-savvy traveler, you'll appreciate facilities like free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and in-room iPads. The hotel hasn't overlooked the need for good leisure either, with a swanky restaurant and bar on-site, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining and drinking. The cherry on top? Hotel Arbaso's engagement with sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Facilities are designed for minimal impact, from water-saving fixtures to recycling programs, underpinning the importance Arbaso places on not just the comfort, but also the conscience of their guests.

How to get to Hotel Arbaso in San Sebastian

Contact:

Address: Hondarribia Kalea, 24, 20005 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain

Phone: +34 843 93 14 00

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.