Occidental Bilbao Hotel

Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop

Set the scene

Walking into the Occidental Bilbao Hotel is like entering a contemporary oasis in the heart of Spain. As soon as the automatic doors sweep open, the hustle and bustle of Bilbao’s city streets seems to fall away, replaced by a tranquil lobby filled with modern decor. The plush seating arrangement at the center of the entrance invites you to sit down and unwind, while muted earthy tones and minimalist touches throughout the building radiate an air of sophisticated calmness. Driftwood sculptures give a nod to the nearby Basque coast, tying the scenery inside to the vibrant city outside, in a sublime display of holistic design.

Navigating your way through the expansive hotel, you will discover a serene indoor pool, a fitness center teeming with top-notch equipment, and a luxurious spa offering a wide range of rejuvenating treatments. The hustle and bustle of life outside ceases to exist in these relaxed corners. Indoors plants dot the public spaces, adding a fresh breath of life to the minimalist design. The sounds of Bilbao's bustling city life are replaced by the soothing background music that whispers through the contemporary space, setting a tranquil tone throughout the hotel.

What can we expect in our room at the Occidental Bilbao Hotel

Each room is designed with thoughtful attention to detail, boasting sleek modern decor complemented by warm, rich tones that echo the vibrant city outside. Ample natural light pours in through the broad windows, casting a gentle glow on the crisp linens and plush furnishings. Experience the state-of-the-art technology embedded seamlessly into the sophisticated design with features like high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and adjustable climate control to ensure maximum comfort during your stay

You will be hard-pressed to resist the allure of the lavish bathrooms, complete with refreshing rainfall showers, spacious countertops, and premium toiletries. The rooms are meticulously kept, assuring cleanliness and comfort.

How about the food and drinks

Serving an array of gastronomic delights, the Occidental Bilbao impresses every palate, whether you are a fan of local Spanish cuisine or international dishes. The hotel’s main restaurant showcases the vibrant flavors of Basque country, bringing together traditional recipes and modern cooking techniques for an innovative dining experience. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients star in each plate, evidencing the hotel's commitment to quality and sustainability.

For those who prefer their evening paired with a fine drink, the lobby bar is a welcoming hub of mixology mastery and relaxation. Boasting an extensive menu of beverages including classy wines, artisanal beers, and signature cocktails, the bar’s talented staff are always ready to suggest the perfect drink to complement your mood or meal. Replete with comfortable seating and a laid-back ambiance, it is an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring Bilbao or conducting successful business meetings. From light bites to hearty meals, from morning coffees to late-night spirits, the Occidental in Bilbao ensures a remarkable culinary journey for each guest.

What is the service like

The hotel staff stand out with their professional, yet friendly approach. Works from chasing the necessary transport to making necessary dining reservations are all taken care of by the team, embodying the spirit of Spanish hospitality at every turn.

The multi-lingual team, fluent in Spanish, English, French, and even German, adds an international charm to the staff. The 24-hour front desk service ensures you're not left stranded at inconvenient hours.

What’s the neighbourhood scene like?

The area, often referred to as 'Bilbao la Vieja', unites tradition and modernity, hosting a myriad of top-notch pintxo bars, unique boutiques, and contemporary art venues. This neighborhood dances to the rhythm of culture and sophistication, harmoniously blending the dynamism of urban life with tradition's comforting touch.

Minutes away from the hotel, you'll find the dramatic Santiago Cathedral, the atmospheric Plaza Nueva, and the thrilling Ribera market. These landmarks serve as prominent backdrops to a neighborhood that hums with local life from dusk till dawn. It’s not unusual to find locals sunning themselves in a park, ambling around the narrow streets, or engaged in lively chatter over a glass of txakoli. A stroll to the nearby Bilbao river allows for an idyllic walk, while the spirited district of Casco Viejo serves as a vivid palette of late-night pintxo joints and improvised street concerts.

What’s the backstory of the Occidental Bilbao

Built in the late 20th century, the hotel was originally conceived as a reflection of the city's flourishing artistic culture and burgeoning industrial progress. Its strategic placement near the center of Bilbao serves as a testament to the city's business growth and development, hosting both tourists and business travelers from around the world.

Throughout its history, the Occidental Bilbao has been through a series of renovations to keep up with the changing times and demands of the modern traveler, while still holding onto its rich historical charm.

Price Range

The price range largely reflects the quality and variations within the hotel's striking abode, providing a suitable choice for both budget-conscious and upscale visitors. Whether you're a solo traveler seeking a comfortable place to stay or a luxury-seeking tourist requiring grand amenities, the hotel's broad price spectrum has you covered.

For your consideration, standard rooms typically start from €80 per night and provides a cozy, truly comfortable space. If you're looking for more opulent accommodation, the grand suites, draped in luxury, may pique your interest starting at around €200. Remember, these prices fluctuate according to seasons and demand, so it's always wise to check and make reservations in advance.

Amenities & Facilities

Rejuvenate after a tiring day of travel or sightseeing in Bilbao at the holistic fitness and wellness center, equipped with a contemporary gymnasium, soothing sauna, Turkish bath, and a glistening outdoor swimming pool. If you're keen to relax, pamper yourself with a range of therapeutic massages and treatments offered by expert therapists in the plush on-site spa.

Getting work done or organizing an important business meeting while on the go is easy, thanks to the tech-savvy business center and modern meeting rooms laced with superior quality audio-visual facilities. Wi-Fi connectivity is complimentary and is accessible all over the property to keep you connected with your world. Whether you're carousing with friends or arranging a typically Basque cocktail party, the hotel's multiple bars and lounges set the perfect backdrop. Other features include a spacious underground parking lot, 24-hour reception, airline assistance, dry cleaning, and laundry services.

How to get to the Occidental Bilbao Hotel

Contact:

Address: Zumalacárregui Etorb., 40, 48006 Bilbo, Bizkaia, Spain

Phone: +34 944 12 43 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.