Hesperia Granada

The Hesperia Granada occupies a terracotta-colored, historic tenement block in the center of Granada. Surrounded by narrow cobblestone streets, some of which are closed to cars, the property has a tucked-away feeling -- though it does experience street noise, particularly on the weekends. Part of the NH Hotel Group, which has hundreds of properties in countries around the world, the hotel still has a personality of its own, with its ornately carved wooden front desk, stone archways, and classical paintings decorating the walls. The layout is classic Andalusian, with three interior courtyards complete with marble floors, carved wood, and colorful glass touches. The spacious central courtyard has a fountain at its center, plush maroon chairs clustered around small wooden tables, and a stunning, stained glass ceiling. Open-air hallways have warm, wood railings and gray marble floors, while marble stairwells are decorated with ornate, gilt-framed mirrors. There's a small, sun-dappled square outside with tall street lanterns and a few orange trees, upon which some of the suites' balconies look. However, while certainly elegant, the property lacks some warmth with regards to decor. Guests, typically tourists, tend to stroll the cobblestone streets to nearby tapas restaurants and historic sights, rather than linger on-site. 

This hotel has an excellent location for tourists, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars dotting the surrounding cobblestone streets. The city's tourism office and Plaza del Carmen are also just around the corner, while bustling Plaza Nueva is just over a five minutes' walk away -- some guests suggest skipping the touristy tapas bars here in favor of others recommended by hotel staff. The Cathedral of Granada and Royal Chapel are just five minutes away on foot, while the Alhambra is within 20 minutes' walk -- though it's mostly uphill, so a taxi may be in order. El Albaicín area, with its charming streets and architecture, is a 15-minute walk away. 

Standard Rooms have a clean, classic look, with hardwood floors, dark wood furniture, and white walls decorated with framed drawings of the city. Curtains and bedspreads are understated, in beige and pale maroon, while molded ceilings, wall-mounted bedside lamps, and cream-upholstered armchairs lend a bit of elegance. All rooms have flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, minibars, safes, desks, air-conditioning, and a choice of pillows. Basic bathrooms have heated towel racks, green marble floors, and either shower/tub combos or showers. Junior Suites offer sitting areas and balconies or terraces, some overlooking the hotel's small square outside. Rooms at the back of the property are typically quieter, and walls can be thin between rooms. Overall the decor in the rooms lacks warmth and real personality, but at least amenities are modern and there's free Wi-Fi.

The hotel's El Meson Cafe and Breakfast serves a daily breakfast buffet for a fee, with a selection of cold items -- including meats, cheeses, fruit, yogurt, and pastries and breads -- and hot items cooked to order; early risers and children can be accommodated. There's a simple meeting space, decorated with wood floors and gray corporate furniture, offering Wi-Fi and space for 30 people. The hotel has a desktop computer and printer for guest use. Parking is free in the on-site garage, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.