Plaza 18

Plaza 18, nestled in the charming hilltop town of Vejer de la Frontera within the province of Cádiz, Spain, stands out as a Michelin Key Selected property offering an exclusive and luxurious boutique hotel experience. While located in the province of Cádiz, it is important to note that the hotel is situated in Vejer de la Frontera, a picturesque white village, rather than Cádiz city itself. The hotel, a meticulously restored 19th-century merchant's house, is lauded for its exquisite design, personalized service, and serene atmosphere.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general sentiment for Plaza 18 is overwhelmingly positive, with guests often describing it as a "perfect," "beautifully appointed," and "outstanding" hotel. It's frequently likened to staying in the ultra-chic country home of "A-list friends" rather than a typical hotel, emphasizing its private and luxurious feel. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional design, attentive staff, and superb location. On platforms like Booking.com, guests have expressed loving "everything about this property," including the grounds, staff, and location. Google reviews also show a strong positive reception, with specific praise for location, rooms, and bathrooms.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently adore several aspects of Plaza 18:

• Design & Atmosphere: The hotel, designed by British interior designer Nicky Dobree in collaboration with the Califa Group, features a "contemporary classic, timeless and elegant" style with restrained glamour. The restoration of the 19th-century manor house is described as immaculate and impressive, maintaining its original spirit with wooden floors and natural marble. It offers a tranquil, private home-like ambiance.
• Service & Exclusivity: With only six rooms, Plaza 18 offers a highly exclusive and private experience, often making guests feel like honored houseguests.
• Location & Views: Its prime location in the medieval quarter of Vejer de la Frontera provides stunning panoramic views of the town, surrounding countryside, and even the Bay of Tangiers or North Africa on clear days.
• Shared Amenities with La Casa del Califa: Guests benefit from seamless access to the adjacent La Casa del Califa's facilities, including its renowned Jardín del Califa restaurant, panoramic cocktail bar, and massage room.
• Afternoon Tea: A unique offering is the classic British afternoon tea served daily in the art-filled living room or on the sunny terrace, complete with mint tea and Moroccan cakes.

3. Room Quality

Plaza 18's six rooms are meticulously designed, each offering a unique character with fine art by various artists and luxury linens. Rooms are described as luxurious, exquisitely furnished, and supremely stylish, blending modern amenities with traditional Spanish charm.

Key features include:

• Comfort: Guests frequently praise the comfortable beds, spacious layouts, and overall sense of comfort and relaxation.
• Amenities: Each room is well-equipped with air conditioning, heating, a hairdryer, TV, free Wi-Fi, and a safe. Many also feature a private kitchen area with a coffee machine, toaster, fridge, dishwasher, and kitchenware.
• Design Details: High-quality sateen sheets and duck down duvets contribute to the luxurious feel. Specific rooms offer unique elements like large windows, extra seating areas, private balconies, or even a duplex style with private roof access and lounge chairs. Some rooms boast views of the town, Sierra, medieval towers, or the sea.

4. Dining Experience

While Plaza 18 itself offers afternoon tea, the primary dining experiences are facilitated through its connection with the neighboring La Casa del Califa:

• Breakfast: An authentic Andalusian, European, or Moroccan breakfast, prepared with local farm products, is included in the stay and served in the beautiful garden of La Casa del Califa, accessible via a private entrance. This is consistently highlighted as a delight and a perfect start to the day.
• Afternoon Tea: A complimentary classic British afternoon tea with homemade delicacies, mint tea, and Moroccan cakes is offered daily in Plaza 18's living room or terrace.
• Restaurant Access: Guests have free access to the award-winning Jardín del Califa, a landmark restaurant specializing in Moroccan cuisine, and a panoramic cocktail bar at La Casa del Califa.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Plaza 18 is frequently praised for being attentive, friendly, and going "above and beyond" to meet guest needs. Guests appreciate feeling like private houseguests with well-to-do friends, indicating a high level of personalized and warm hospitality. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and private check-in/check-out services. There is also a well-stocked "honesty bar" in the sitting room, allowing guests to serve themselves.

6. Location & Accessibility

Plaza 18 is strategically located on Plaza España, within the medieval quarter of Vejer de la Frontera, a picturesque "whitewashed hilltop town" in the province of Cádiz.

• Neighborhood & Attractions: The hotel is situated in one of the town's most precious areas, surrounded by charming architecture, plazas, parks, restaurants, and cafes. Vejer de la Frontera itself is known for its beauty, history, and vibrant local atmosphere. While not in Cádiz city, it's a short drive from the coast, offering access to beaches and water activities. Golf courses like Novo Sancti Petri Golf and Benalup Golf & Country Club are also within a reasonable distance.
• Transport & Parking: Covered private parking is available close to the hotel (approximately 80 meters away) for an additional charge, which guests have found convenient. Jerez Airport is about 79 km away.

7. Value & Pricing

Plaza 18 is considered a luxury boutique hotel, and its pricing reflects this exclusivity and high level of service. Based on 2022 rates, prices can range significantly depending on the room type and season.

• Typical Price Range (based on 2022 data):
  • Deluxe Rooms: Around €150 - €275 for single use, and more for double occupancy, varying by season (low, mid, high, peak).
  • Deluxe Suite: Can range from €240 - €325 for single use, and more for double/triple occupancy.
  • Deluxe Double Room with Sea View: Priced around $241-$265 (USD) on some booking sites for specific dates.
• Value: While on the higher end, guests often find it worth the cost for the "exquisite accommodation and stellar service". The "best prices are guaranteed" when booking directly or through Michelin Guide. Breakfast is included in the stay.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor points can be gathered:

• Limited Reviews on Some Platforms: As a smaller, exclusive property, some major hotel review sites or guides (like Michelin's own guest score system) might show "No verified stays yet" or "No score yet" for aggregated guest feedback. This doesn't indicate negative feedback, but rather a smaller sample size compared to larger hotels.
• Parking Cost: While convenient, the private parking comes with an additional daily charge (e.g., €17/day mentioned in one review).
• Adults-Only Policy: The hotel is adults-only. While a highlight for some seeking tranquility, it's a limitation for families with children.
• Need to Plan Ahead: Due to its limited number of rooms (six), booking well in advance is essential.

Sources

1. tablethotels.com
2. michelin.com
3. spearswms.com
4. greatsmallhotels.com
5. michelin.com
6. michelin.com
7. plaza18vejer.com
8. google.com.ng
9. booking.com
10. agoda.com
11. plaza18vejer.com
12. booking.com
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14. sunshinetour.net