Saiaz Getaria, Getaria, Basque Country, Spain - Explore & Book

"The Basque people love Getaria - whenever you mention it, they break out in nostalgic smiles as if remembering the happiest days of their life. And when you get here, you see why. It’s a cute little place, with a happy vibe and a lovely beach that’s popular with locals at weekends. Potter about and you find a small harbour for local fishing boats, some good restaurants that serve the freshest fish, and a small marina that’s home to a clutch of posh yachts; day trips over to San Sebastián can be arranged.As for this lovely hotel, it sits on a narrow street at the top of the Old Town, with views to the west of sea and sky. The house dates from the 15th century and was probably a defence of sorts, as several arrow slits survive. Behind its façade of golden stone you find a pretty mix of old and new: mullioned windows, wood and antiques mixed with bright rugs and throws. Prices are great and local staff go the extra mile. There are 18 attractive bedrooms, which all have a warm, homely feel. Some are big, others smaller; several have magnificent sea views (the house stands at the top of a cliff, with waves rolling in below). There’s a big sitting room that looks the right way, plus a terrace where we watched the sun go down with a glass of wine in hand. It's popular with couples, but welcoming to families, too. As for the beach and those excellent restaurants, you won’t have to walk far. Highs Rooms with sea views are magical, worth splashing out onThe Old Town with its pintxo bars, the cool beach, the fishing boats - there’s lots of character here, and it's a very civilised place to do very little. And the Cristóbal Balenciaga museum is heaven for fashionistasElkano, one of the Basque region's best restaurants, is only 50 paces from the front doorMonte de San Antón (the hill that rolls into the sea; known as the Mouse of Getaria) is a great spot to sit and watch the sun go downBeautiful San Sebastián is only 30 minutes away by car Lows The hotel closes from mid-December until 1st March, so it might take a while to receive a response to your enquiryBreakfast is the only meal served, and local menus don't have many meaty options (it's mainly fish) though chuleta and steak can be foundThe hotel has 2 parking spots, and a small seasonal charge applies along the seafront. Beware the steep steps leading back up the hillThe one-way system in town can be confusing; follow directions to the hotel explicitly or you may get lostExpect some noise to rise from the narrow street at the front of the hotel, plus early church bells" - Tom Bell