Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro

At a glance, this hotel appears almost medieval in its fortress-style setting, despite only being around thirty years old. In keeping with the parador concept, it's all about location here, and the hotel has some of the region's best city views across Malaga and out to sea. Its medieval style also reflects its location next to Malaga's famed Castillo de Gibralfaro. Fronted by lush foliage and outdoor seating, the hotel's immediate vibe is homey and cheerful. Inside, it’s more of the same: a lobby with dramatic arches, stone-faced walls, and cushy seating evokes an Old-World, cozy Mediterranean feeling. The restaurant is similarly designed, and warm terra-cotta tiles throughout the property contribute to its charming look. This is a good option for tourists and families who want something outside the bustling city center, yet still close enough to its historic attractions.

Set atop Mount Gibralfaro, the hotel has great views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. One of the property’s most appealing traits is its proximity to one of Malaga’s most essential attractions: the 14th-century Gibralfaro Castle (Castillo de Gibralfaro) is next door, and an eight-minute walk from the hotel. The historic city center and Malagueta Beach are both about 10 minutes away by car, as is the Museo Picasso Malaga, which features over 200 of his works. Those who don't mind a longer walk can head downhill for 30 minutes to the city's striking Alcazaba, which can be reached in seven minutes by car (keep in mind the walk back to the hotel will be steep). The Malaga Airport is approximately a 20-minute drive, and there's a bus stop that's about a six-minute walk from the hotel.

The air-conditioned rooms here are classic and simple, with a design scheme that draws on Mediterranean style. The overall vibe is sunny and upbeat, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that allow plenty of natural light to stream through. Other details include terra-cotta tile floors, gray tweed seating, and colorful framed art on the white walls. Some of the wooden furniture is a little bit worn, and while rooms are spacious on the whole, they are a bit plain. Standard features include free Wi-Fi, minibars, and flat-screen TVs with premium channels. Upgraded rooms have nice extras like Nespresso coffee machines and spacious furnished balconies that overlook the city or the gardens below. Select Standard Double Rooms include sofa beds and are a reasonable fit for small groups or families. The most elegant room is the top-floor Picasso Suite, a loft-style space with a private terrace that offers outstanding sea views. The bathrooms are understated, yet feature generous counter space and are done in tan marble with shower/tub combos or walk-in showers.

There are a couple of key details here that make the hotel a worthwhile choice. The rooftop solarium pool is phenomenal -- the expansive views are picturesque from an extensive patio that’s dotted with comfortable lounge chairs and tropical thatch umbrellas. Elsewhere, Pablo Ruiz Picasso, the hotel’s classy Mediterranean and Andalusian restaurant, evokes the feel of a traditional manor. It’s a bit formal at first glance, but food scores mostly solid marks from previous guests. There’s a shaded dining terrace that has a more relaxed atmosphere and great city views. Breakfast is also served here for an additional fee.

Natural light filters through the arched windows of the on-site cafe, a slightly medieval space dotted with honey-wood tables and plush, sky-blue seats. It’s a fine spot for a casual drink, with flat-screen TVs and a full bar. There are a couple of well-equipped meeting rooms to accommodate those traveling on business. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and parking is also free.