San Sebastian, Spain
Maria Cristina
Belle epoque grandeur
The grande dame of San Sebastian hotels, the Maria Cristina sits overlooking the Urumea River and is set an elegant belle epoque-style building. It first opened its doors back in 1912 and since has hosted everyone from royalty and aristocrats to Hollywood celebrities.
Its lavish gold and marble interiors exude grace and refinement, while its 136 rooms and suites add stylish touches of modernity in their colourful contemporary artwork and high-tech features. Choose from river, garden or city views, or even your own private terrace.
Each morning begins here with an extravagant breakfast in the grand breakfast room, surrounded by Corinthian columns, heavy damask drapes and ornate plasterwork, while in the evenings pintxos (Basque-style tapas) and cocktails can be enjoyed in the Dry Bar, inspired by the glamour of the golden days of Hollywood. Dinner is also offered at the Asian-themed Saigon Café.
With sites such as the San Telmo Museum of Basque Ethnography and History, the impressive Buen Pastor Cathedral and the pretty La Concha Beach right on your doorstep, it’s ideally situated.
Highlights
Basque cooking classes
Wine pairing tutorials
Explore the city
136 rooms and suites
Two restaurants and a bar
Culinary school
Fitness centre
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Maria Cristina with
Metsovo
Perched high on the slopes of the Pindus Mountain Range in Greece, at the gateway to Pindus National Park, Grand Forest Metsovo is a secluded sanctuary that invites you to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, including mist-draped peaks, dense forests and the charming old town of Metsovo. The surrounding national park, a sanctuary of biodiversity, is home to Eurasian brown bears, wolves, wildcats, deer and the Balkan chamois. Over 80 species of birds, including the golden eagle, eastern imperial eagle and lanner falcon, soar above. Venture into the forest’s depths on guided hikes or simply soak in the view from the hotel’s panoramic terraces.
The suites at Grand Forest Metsovo are designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, offering sumptuous interiors, warm wooden accents and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the ever-changing mountain vistas. Overlooking the vast mountain expanse, the restaurant Metsovo 1350m presents a contemporary interpretation of Epirus’ rich culinary traditions. Savour locally sourced ingredients transformed into exquisite dishes. Meanwhile, the lobby provides a more relaxed setting, where you can enjoy light meals, fine wines and expertly crafted cocktails beside the fireplace. The 24-hour gym features state-of-the-art Cybex equipment, ensuring an invigorating workout with spectacular views. Children will enjoy the kid’s club, a dedicated space filled with toys, creative play areas and board games.
For those seeking the ultimate in relaxation, the Aspen Spa is an invitation to reconnect with both body and mind. Inspired by the resilient Aspen tree, known for its smooth white bark and shimmering leaves, the spa embodies a philosophy of strength, renewal and harmony. In this tranquil space, indulge in rejuvenating treatments, unwind in the soothing indoor pool, or immerse yourself in the invigorating warmth of the sauna and Turkish bath. Beyond the spa, soak in the crisp mountain air while floating in the hotel’s stunning outdoor infinity pool, where the horizon stretches endlessly over the peaks. The indoor pool offers a more sheltered sanctuary, its warm waters reflecting the ethereal beauty of the mountains beyond.
