Hesperia Donosti

The Hesperia Donosti is all about simple and stylish functionality. Built in 2005 and adjoined to an apartment block, the hotel has a smart and contemporary facade and enough architectural interest to keep it from looking too uniform. The lobby is small, efficient, and uncluttered, with minimal decor and modern design seating that doesn't encourage lingering. Beyond the small cafe and bar, there's little in the way of public space. A pair of elevators ferry guests to one of five floors. Part of the NH brand, the property has a tasteful chain feel throughout, appealing to the mostly Spanish business clientele -- and the occasional vacationing couple on a stopover -- that frequent the hotel. 

The hotel is positioned between a busy road and leafy residential area just off the GI-20 highway on the outskirts of the Basque city of San Sebastian. Within walking distance of a number of company headquarters and most of the city's university buildings, the location is certainly more of a natural choice for business and academic travelers than it is for tourists. It's also under 10 minutes' drive to the wide sandy beach of La Concha and its impressive seafront promenade lined with hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Further numerous dining options can be found in its pretty Old Town -- ground zero for tourists visiting San Sebastian and 15 minutes away by car. A bus stop is just outside the hotel for regular service. The closest airport (with domestic flights only) is about 30 minutes away by car, while Bilbao Airport is about an hours' drive.  

The hotel's 45 rooms come in three categories: Standard, Superior, and Junior Suites. All are decorated with understated styling with simple modern furniture, wood floors, and muted tones. A handful of Superior Rooms open to spacious furnished balconies, though they overlook the busy road. Junior Suites have separate lounges with dining areas and at 540 square feet (50 square meters) are roughly double the size of Standard Rooms. Amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars, and electronic safes. Upgraded rooms add tea-making facilities and coffee machines. Pillow menus are available and beds are extra comfy, though soundproofing is not always effective and some rooms are prone to traffic noise. Bathrooms are clean and well-equipped with full-strength hairdryers, bathrobes, and shower/tub combos.

Guests expecting much in the way of either leisure or dining facilities will certainly be disappointed. The only on-site eatery is a relatively small but bright cafe, where a cold buffet breakfast is served each morning along with hot items cooked to order; breakfast is not included as standard. Light meals and snacks including Basque-style pintxos are on offer throughout the day. The cafe opens to a small alfresco terrace. Indoor parking is available, though for a fairly pricey daily charge and it can't be reserved in advance. Meeting facilities are available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.