Sometimes, bigger doesn’t mean better. That is certainly the case with these of charming boutique hotels. This collection of superb boutique hotels in Europe is quirky, original, and full of personality – and all of them have fewer than 50 rooms!
Almalusa Baixa Chiado – Lisbon, Portugal
Almalusa Baixa/Chiado brings an authentic Portuguese flavour to downtown Lisbon. History surrounds the hotel. It is located on the Praça do Município, one of Lisbon’s most iconic squares, rebuilt just after the massive earthquake of 1755 that laid waste to the city. Although housed in an 18th-century building, the hotel’s interiors highlight contemporary design, combining modern elements with traditional wall tiles and pombalino-style windows. The hotel offers 26 individually and elegantly-designed bedrooms and suites that seek to immerse guests into Portuguese culture. Each room features heavenly beds and mattresses, and an en-suite bathroom with luxury toiletries; upgrades add in-room Delta coffee and tea machines. This level of comfort and hospitality is enhanced by the Delfina Restaurant and Deli, which serves a range of fine locally-inspired dishes, as well as a complimentary breakfast every morning.
Bio Design Landhaus St. Georg – Bad Wiessee, Germany
Waterford Castle – Waterford, Ireland
Picture a 500-year old castle, covered by climbing ivy and weathered by the centuries it has stood on its own private island in the middle of a river, reached only by ferryboat. You don’t need to imagine it: it’s real, and it’s called the Waterford Castle, located just outside the city of Waterford in Ireland. Though old, this fairy-tale castle is completely luxurious. The awe-inspiring Great Hall is hung with medieval tapestries and stunning arched windows. There are 18 elegant rooms and suites, each exquisitely decorated, with many containing grand four-poster beds, chintz arm chairs and dark mahogany furniture. Most rooms offer stunning views of the river or the estate, which includes a superb 18-hole golf course that winds its way across the island. For less active guests, the hotel offers luxurious dining at the Munster Dining Room.
Grau Roig Boutique Hotel – Andorra
It should come as no surprise that the Grau Roig is an award-winning hotel. Tucked away in the beautiful mountain landscape of Andorra, just a few metres away from the world-class ski slopes of Grandvalira ski resort. The hotel takes on a traditional mountain look, like a ski lodge or cabin writ large. 42 recently-refurbished rooms afford stunning views of the stunning mountain scenery. Guest are treated to comfortable furnishings and tasteful decoration that combines natural qualities with modern amenities. A minibar, satellite television, an en-suite bathroom, and slippers and bathrobes come as standard. Wireless internet is available throughout the hotel. Entertainment is also provided in the form of a jazz room, a reading room, and a summer lounge with its own massage bath. Even better, a Kids Club is on hand to give parents some much-needed respite!
Villa Soro – San Sebastián, Spain
Ventana Hotel – Prague, Czech Republic
The art nouveau Ventana Hotel looks typically central European, possessing that grand Habsburg quality you’ll find across this part of the continent. Its dramatic appearance blends in well with the beautiful surroundings of Prague. Appropriately, the hotel is also blessed with a superb location, with the Týn Cathedral, the Old Town Square, and the iconic Charles Bridge all within easy reach on foot and by public transport. Inside, the hotel offers 29 elegant guest rooms, all incredibly spacious and individually designed, and filled with modern comforts and amenities. Together with the friendly and professional staff, the Ventana Hotel provides a superb boutique experience. It shouldn’t be a surprise then, that the hotel has welcomed some pretty high profile guests over the years – particularly fashion royalty.
Hotel Madinat – Cordoba, Spain
Moments away from the Arc de Triomphe, and built in the city’s typical 19th-century Haussmann style, there are few boutique hotels more Parisien than the Hotel Duret. The hotel features 25 light, spacious and modern rooms, with windows looking out over a quiet street away from the main hustle and bustle of the city. Thanks to its charming décor and loyal and friendly staff, the hotel maintains a warm and cosy atmosphere for all its guests. The hotel offers a concierge service to help its guests make the most of their stay in the city of lights, helping devise customised itineraries filled with unique sights and attractions. It’s also well-equipped to the meet the needs of business travellers and conference attendees, so if you’re not in Paris for leisure purposes, the Hotel Duret has you covered too.