Weekend Pass: Seville

Published on Friday 2 May 2008 13:34

Why go there?

Seville is the great, historic capital of Andalusia and visiting before the temperatures hit a summer peak of 40 degrees is a good idea. Casas del Rey de Baeza is part of the esteemed Hospes group, but this is no chain hotel. A sumptuous example of 19th-century Andalusian architecture that was once the home of the King of Baeza, with 42 rooms centred around outdoor courtyards, it's situated in the heart of the old city with landmarks such as Casa de Pilatos, Santa Catalina and the cathedral all within strolling distance.

How do you get there?

You can fly direct from both Edinburgh or Glasgow, though you'll find cheaper deals with Ryanair from London Stansted. From Seville airport it's a 20-minute bus ride into the centre of town. Once there, grab a taxi or get either the 10, 15, 20 or 32 bus.

Bed test

My peaceful and airy double had two sets of windows, both of which looked on to the leafy courtyards, and also boasted a DVD player and an option to order free films – Spanish and English – through room service. The bathroom, with its generous number of Korres products, was modern and sophisticated.

What's the food like?

The Senzone restaurant is in the courtyard and its decor, in keeping with the outdoors setting, makes use of lots of natural materials such as stone, leather, wood and woven needle-grass. The food is typically Sevillian but with the odd modern twist. It's rich stuff, from the red peppers stuffed with oxtail stew to traditional stewed Iberian pork cheek. Otherwise, head for the roof terrace, which serves tapas, salads and sandwiches.

Out and about

You're spoilt for choice in Santa Cruz, Seville's artistic and historic quarter. Think narrow, crooked streets, hidden plazas, orange groves and old houses, as well as numerous tapas bars. Seville's two most famous architectural landmarks, the cathedral and the Giralda tower, are also close by. My top tip? Five minutes from the hotel is the oldest and most famous bar in the city, El Rinconcillo. Founded in 1670, it has the most stunning Art Nouveau tile murals and a great bustling atmosphere.

Little extras

The rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, bar and solarium is stylish and laid-back and boasts some incredible views over the city rooftops.

The bottom line

Rates range from €165 to €400 in high season, which runs until mid-November, and in low season from €140 to €300.