Seville, Spain
Hotel Alfonso XIII
An Emblematic Urban Sanctuary in the Centre of Seville
Steeped in history, the Hotel Alfonso XIII was constructed by order of the King as luxury lodging for the international VIPs attending the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.
This grand structure quickly became an emblem of the city centre and has been continuously used as a hotel until the present day, although Franco’s regime necessitated a name change to the Andalusian Palace while under his rule. To this day, you’ll find that it is the city centre’s only true, luxury property.
Typically Andalusian in style, the hotel expresses the region’s mixed Moorish and Castilian founding influences with authentic and detailed features. Each of its 151 bedrooms including its 19 suites are unique in design, falling into three style categories: Andalusian, Moorish, and Castilian.
Alongside its exalted, majestic architecture, Hotel Alfonso XIII is also notable for its large pool, which sits amidst lush gardens. This makes it a rare urban sanctuary and one of the only locations where being in Seville during the heat of high summer will be thoroughly enjoyable.
By the pool you’ll find an al fresco restaurant that turns itself into a twinkling vision after dark and serves Spanish and international delicacies. You can also eat in the sumptuously-tiled gallery surrounding an arched interior courtyard where you can take your breakfast and coffee. If you fancy something truly epicurean, the atmospheric Ena tapas bar is manned by Michelin-starred chef Carles Abellán of Barcelona. Afterwards, discuss the highlights of your meal to the accompaniment of live piano music at Bar Americano.
In terms of location, you’ll find that you really couldn’t be better placed to discover Seville. Hotel Alfonso XIII sits right on the edge of the old – pedestrianised – quarter, meaning that you can benefit from arriving to the hotel by car and walking five minutes to outstanding historic sites such as the Cathedral de Seville, the Alcazar, Puente de S. Telmo, and Plaza de Espana.
Highlights
Gazpacho and paella cooking classes
Wine tastings
Walking tours of Seville
River cruises
Bike rental
Rumba
151 guestrooms including 19 suites
Two restaurants including a tapas bar by Michelin-starred chef
Lobby bar with piano
Fitness room
WiFi
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Hotel Alfonso XIII 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.
Peloponnese
Located on the slopes of Mount Mainalos in the Peloponnese region, MANNA is a historic retreat infused with heritage and elegance. Originally built in 1929, this remarkable structure is a testament to both architectural beauty and a noble past. Founded by Anna Mela, an aristocrat devoted to philanthropy, it was originally a sanatorium. Anna dedicated her life and fortune to the care of wounded soldiers and tuberculosis patients, earning her the title of the ‘Soldier’s Mother’. Today, her enduring legacy is honoured in the very name MANNA, derived from ‘Mother Anna’, a tribute to her unwavering compassion and service.
The restoration of MANNA has been meticulously undertaken in collaboration with archaeologists, ensuring the integrity of its original architecture while seamlessly integrating contemporary elegance. The result is a sanctuary of sophisticated design, where high ceilings, refined furnishings and sustainable materials harmonise with the serene embrace of the ancient fir forest. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views, while soft natural tones, warm wood and plush textures create an atmosphere of understated opulence.
MANNA’s wellness hub is a tribute to the therapeutic power of its surroundings, offering a curated journey of self-care. Experience the restorative warmth of the sauna and hammam, surrender to the tranquil depths of the ‘cave’ pool, or reconnect with your body and mind through yoga, either practiced beneath the towering fir trees or by a crackling indoor fireplace. The landscape beyond invites exploration and adventure– invigorating hikes along Greece’s most scenic trails, mountain biking through winding paths or even skiing at the nearby Mainalos Ski Resort.
The dining menu at MANNA reinterprets Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on ethical, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast showcases native ingredients and traditional recipes prepared with a light, wholesome touch, while the all-day menu celebrates the richness of Greek gastronomy, infused with international inspirations and contemporary techniques. Seasonality guides every creation, ensuring an ever-evolving menu that embraces a zero-waste philosophy, where each ingredient is thoughtfully utilised.
