Palacio Arriluce hotel

Palacio Arriluce Hotel, a Michelin Key Selected property in Getxo, Spain, consistently garners high praise for its blend of aristocratic charm and modern luxury, offering guests an exceptional stay on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Biscay.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Palacio Arriluce Hotel is overwhelmingly positive, with an average score of 9.1 based on over 360 reviews, rated as "Superb" by guests. Key metrics show high satisfaction across the board: Location (9.4), Cleanliness (9.6), Facilities (9.4), Comfort (9.7), and Staff (9.3). Guests frequently describe their stays as "exceptional," "luxurious," and "a very special place."

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud the hotel for several standout features:

• Exceptional Service: The staff's friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive nature are frequently highlighted, with many guests noting their ability to anticipate every requirement.
• Beautiful Property & Design: The hotel is celebrated for its stunning views, luxurious and carefully restored interiors that honor its past as a high-society hangout, and elegant design. The transformation of an old chapel into a cocktail bar is a notable modern update.
• Stunning Location & Views: Perched on cliffs overlooking the Bay of Biscay, the hotel offers breathtaking sea views from its terraces and rooms. Its proximity to Ereaga Beach is also a major draw.
• Luxurious Amenities: An infinity swimming pool, spa facilities (including a sauna, steam room, Turkish bath, and hydro-jet pool), a fitness center, and a beautiful garden are highly appreciated.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Palacio Arriluce are described as beautiful, luxurious, spacious, and extremely comfortable, reflecting an elegant and refined aesthetic. The design incorporates chevron wood flooring, high ceilings, velvet furnishings, and a nautical-inspired blue and white color palette.

• Original Mansion Rooms: Many rooms and suites in the original mansion boast period details such as stained-glass panels, coffered walls, and wood-paneled window seats with sea views. The Grand Suite, with its original stained-glass windows and family portraits, offers a particularly aristocratic experience.
• Pergola Building Rooms: Rooms in the adjacent pergola building come with private patios and gardens, partly shaded by a stone colonnade, providing a tranquil outdoor space.
• Comfort and Thoughtful Touches: Guests consistently praise the comfort of the beds and the thoughtful amenities provided.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Palacio Arriluce receives positive, though sometimes mixed, feedback.

• Breakfast: The breakfast choice is described as "incredible" and served on a stone terrace facing the harbor when weather permits, enhancing the experience. It is a buffet with a variety of options.
• Restaurant: The restaurant offers Mediterranean, Spanish, and international cuisines for lunch and dinner. Chef Tatsuya Iwasaki's meticulous plating and flavorful dishes have earned a Michelin Guide mention. While some guests find the food "good rather than great," they appreciate the friendly staff.
• Bar Kupka: The hotel's history-laden lounge bar, Bar Kupka, is highlighted for its haute cocktails, selection from the wine cellar, and a menu of dainty small plates and gourmet sandwiches.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff are a consistent highlight and a major reason for the hotel's high ratings. Guests frequently use terms like "exceptional," "friendly," "helpful," "professional," "kind," and "brilliant" to describe the team. Staff members are noted for being attentive, anticipating guest needs, and making every effort to ensure a special stay.

6. Location & Accessibility

Palacio Arriluce boasts a prime location in Getxo, a charming seaside village that served as a vacation spot for Bilbao's bourgeoisie.

• Beach Proximity: It is ideally situated just 300 meters (a 3-minute walk) from Ereaga Beach.
• Local Attractions: Nearby attractions include the iconic Vizcaya Bridge (2.3 km). Getxo itself is described as a "charming town" with a wonderful neighborhood.
• Accessibility to Bilbao: While in Getxo, the hotel offers easy access to Bilbao via the metro, with a journey of approximately 25 minutes and an inexpensive fare. Bilbao Airport is a convenient 20-minute drive away. The hotel also offers free on-site private parking and valet parking.

7. Value & Pricing

Guests generally perceive Palacio Arriluce Hotel as offering good value for a 5-star luxury experience, despite being considered high-end. The value for money is rated at 8.5. While prices are noted as high for the area, the overall luxurious surroundings, exceptional service, and quality amenities contribute to guests feeling it is "a great price for 5 star luxury." Typical prices for rooms can start around EUR 245.00.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor criticisms have been noted:

• Room Location: One guest mentioned that their room was lovely but not in the main building, which wasn't an issue for them but something to be noted for others. Another review indicated that garden rooms could be somewhat dark and lacked space, despite being comfortable.
• Restaurant/Bar Staff Training: Some feedback suggested that while restaurant and bar staff are friendly, they might benefit from additional training to match the prices and ambiance the hotel is aiming for.
• Information Flow: A guest recommended improving the flow of information between night and early morning staff.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. mrandmrssmith.com
3. michelin.com
4. tablethotels.com
5. booking.com
6. michelin.com