Once a sedate fishing village, San Sebastián was favoured by aristocrats and royalty as a beach resort in the late 19th century – and in 1912, Hotel Maria Cristina opened its doors as the finest place to be seen. The hotel has retained all its flawless Belle Époque glamour, in a manner that’s positively up to date: polished marble columns and floors; a neutral tone offset by plenty of gold, sweeping ironwork staircases and mirrors abound. Grand bedsteads put an authoritative stamp on every bedroom, and 28 suites present a regal level of comfort unlike anywhere else in the Basque Country.
Today San Sebastián is celebrated for its gastronomy. Albeit small, the town has an impressive 16 Michelin stars. For a hands-on experience, the hotel’s formidable culinary and wine centre – including a bodega for delectable souvenirs – teaches how to carve Iberian ham or whip up pintxos (small Basque Country snacks that mirror Spanish tapas).
