Hotel Soho Boutique Palacio San Gabriel

The atmosphere inside of the family-owned Hotel San Gabriel is quiet and relaxed, with the feeling of staying in a sophisticated old home. Built in the 18th century by the noble Pizarro family (heirs to the famed explorer), the building later served as a residence and furniture warehouse, before being purchased by the current owners' family in the 1970s. Classically styled common areas feature period furniture to match the historic architecture. In the entrance, wood panels and terra-cotta floors combine with interesting decorative elements -- like a hanging plant dangling beside a crystal chandelier. Walls throughout the hotel are crowded with classical paintings, stained glass windows, and gold-framed mirrors. Hotel San Gabriel draws mainly tourist couples, along with some solo travelers and small groups. In the evening, guests often gather in the living room/library space, situated just off a pleasant courtyard. 

Situated on a small, quiet street in the historic center of Ronda, the hotel is perfectly situated for tourists. It's a five-minute walk from Puente Nuevo, the famed bridge leading into the bustling tourist and commercial hub. Immediately surrounding the property are private homes, as well as some local museums and churches, restaurants, bars, and some shops selling souvenirs and local products. The 18th-century bullring, Plaza de Toros de Ronda, is within a five-minute walk. The Arab Baths are a 15-minute walk or nine-minute drive away. Nearby activities include hiking and nature trails, canyoning, climbing, caving, and horseback riding, all of which can be booked through the hotel. Malaga International Airport is about 90 minutes away by car. 

Rooms at the hotel are fairly spacious and immaculately clean, with comfy beds. Decor is individualized for each room though all have authentic local touches like artisan-crafted headboards, terra-cotta tile floors, and glass lanterns. Original architectural details such as archways, exposed brick, and ornate crown molding lend historic character. Features include small flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Standard bathrooms are smallish but charming, with painted tile, bidets, and makeup mirrors along with stall showers and free toiletries. Some suites have large hot tubs. 

Options range from Double Budget Rooms with single beds to Double Superior Rooms with seating nooks. There are also open-plan Junior Suites that can feature lofted sleeping areas, and a stately Honeymoon Suite with the feel of a four-room apartment that guests recommend highly. Interior noise can be an issue.

Breakfast is available for a fee, and served in two different shifts. It includes coffee and tea, as well as breads, cheese, cereals, and gluten-free items -- but several guests recommended heading to cafes outside instead. Breakfast is served in a cafe that offers an honesty bar for the rest of the day. Other features include a living room/library that has a fireplace and is stocked with books, and a small outdoor patio with plants and a fountain for warm weather lounging. The hotel has a couple of special common areas as well: a small wine cellar with seating, and a little movie theater with red velvet armchairs that belonged to an old cinema of the city. There's no on-site parking, but there's paid public parking a couple of blocks from the hotel. Common areas have free Wi-Fi and there's a guest computer. The welcoming owners, a brother and sister who grew up in the home, provide maps and concierge services.