Hotel Marqués de Riscal, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Elciego is an exceptional and luxurious stay located in the picturesque Rioja Alavesa Region of Spain. The hotel's stunning architecture designed by Frank Gehry, modern design and lovely surroundings create a magical and romantic atmosphere that offers a unique experience. Guests can enjoy magical views from every place in the hotel and explore nearby villages and wineries. The hotel's excellent service and facilities, including a Michelin star restaurant, exquisite breakfast and luxurious rooms with comfortable beds and splendid views, make it a dreamy location for an unforgettable escape. While some guests have noted issues with price, menu variety and some maintenance issues, this does not detract from the overwhelmingly positive reviews of the hotel's cleanliness, attentive staff and exceptional spa facilities. Overall, Hotel Marqués de Riscal delivers a luxury stay worthy of its five-star rating and an unforgettable experience.
Barceló Costa Vasca in San Sebastián is consistently praised for its excellent location, providing a restful retreat in a quiet residential area while being conveniently close to La Concha and Ondarreta beaches, the charming old town and notable landmarks such as Miramar Palace and Monte Igueldo funicular. The hotel ensures easy access to public transportation with a bus stop just outside connecting to the city center within minutes.
The breakfast experience at the hotel stands out, offering a wide selection of high-quality options. Guests appreciate the varied and hearty buffet, featuring fresh juices, local hams, cheeses and pastries. While the breakfast's cost is considered high by some, its quality and variety generally receive positive feedback.
Guest rooms are frequently highlighted for their modern decor, cleanliness and comfort. Daily cleaning services maintain high standards of cleanliness and the spacious rooms with comfortable beds create a welcoming atmosphere. The bathrooms are well-equipped with quality toiletries, adding to the overall comfort. Some minor issues such as air conditioning noise and water temperature fluctuations were noted but did not significantly detract from the positive reviews.
The hotel's common areas, including the lobby and the pool, are described as clean and spacious. The large and well-maintained pool area, although occasionally closed outside peak seasons, is appreciated by guests for its cleanliness and pleasant setup. The serene ambiance of the pool area contributes to a relaxing stay, despite some operational limitations.
Barceló Costa Vasca's staff receive high praise for their friendliness, attentiveness and professionalism. The reception and housekeeping teams, in particular, are noted for their helpfulness and multilingual capabilities, enhancing the overall guest experience.
However, the hotel's dining options garner mixed feedback. While the breakfast buffet is highly acclaimed, the dinner service receives varied reviews. Some guests praise the quality and service, but others find the options limited and not reflective of the local cuisine. Additionally, there are occasional comments about service inefficiencies and high prices.
Wi-Fi service at the hotel needs significant improvement, as guests report issues with weak and unstable connections, making it difficult to use in certain areas, including the rooms.
Overall, Barceló Costa Vasca is a well-regarded choice in San Sebastián, offering a blend of tranquility, accessibility and comfort. Its standout breakfast, clean and spacious rooms and dedicated staff contribute positively to the guests' experience, making it an attractive option for visitors seeking both relaxation and exploration.