Hotel YIT Casa Grande

Originally a family mansion that dates to the 1920s, the two-story Casa Grande has an airy, Spanish Art Nouveau style. There's a central open-air atrium with wrought iron cafe tables and chairs where breakfast is served. Guest can also dine on the rooftop terrace, which boasts panoramic views of the plaza and old houses on surrounding streets. The space doubles as a bar, and is equally popular at night. There's a little library lounge and a small bar in the lobby, and other than the glass concierge desk, the classic furnishings here are mostly in keeping with the historic look of the house. With its calm setting and relaxed vibe, the property attracts couples who want a genuine Andalusian experience, and also some friends traveling in groups. 

The hotel is situated opposite a manicured public plaza in the center of the city. It's surrounded by lively shopping streets, and there are many restaurants, bars, and sherry bodegas within walking distance. Attractions like the Iglesia de San Miguel and the Alcázar are also within a ten-minute walk. The Circuita de Jerez, a Formula One racetrack, which hosts both car and motorcycle races, is a 15-minute drive outside the city center. The port city of Cadiz, which has a lively waterfront, is about a 30-minute drive away. The closest airport is in Seville, about an hour away by car. 

Most of the guest rooms at Casa Grande are arranged around the hotel's central open-air atrium. They have lovely marble tile floors and traditional, classic decor, and spaces are unfussy and elegant. There's simple dark wood or wrought iron furniture that includes attractive writing desks and chairs, headboards, and bedside tables. All units have AC, flat-screen TVs, safes, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no mini-fridges or coffeemakers.

The seven Standard rooms lack exterior views, opening directly to the interior atrium, with either two twin beds (pushed together) or double beds. Superior rooms add Juliette balconies or bay windows with small seating areas. There are also two suites with separate living rooms and sofa beds; one is located on the first floor, and the other is on the rooftop, and features a kitchenette with a microwave and a mini-fridge. The tiled bathrooms are basic but pleasant, with shower/tub combos with handheld showerheads, bidets, hairdryers, and toiletries. 

The hotel's main attraction is its beautiful rooftop, with potted plants decorating the red brick terrace between tables, shade umbrellas, and a few scattered sun loungers. More seating is in the open-air atrium below, and guests can have breakfast for a fee in either of the welcoming spaces. There's no full-service restaurant. 

Another highlight is the small lobby bar and a library lounge with a couch, leather chairs, and a fireplace. There are no fitness facilities, but there's a 24-hour business corner with a PC and a printer, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. There's limited on-site parking -- exactly one space -- but the staff can arrange parking, sometimes on the street for no extra charge.