Villa Oniria

Reviewed by Michael Soffe


THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE ..............

For us, having inspected and stayed in so many boutique Hotels, it is always a delight to get that “tingling” feeling in the stomach as you enter a Hotel that accompanies the thought – “yes, I have found a real gem!!!”. Villa Oniria provided just that sensation – it is, in one word, wonderful! Given a rather miserly “four stars” by the inadequate Spanish official rating system (one of its bedrooms does not meet five star square metreage by a metre!) this one gets five flowers from me – no problem. Tucked up one of the quieter side streets just a couple of hundred metres from the Puerta Real in the centre of Granada, hidden discreetly behind an organza screened door, you enter into a stunning conversion of an old "palacete" that has everything; gorgeous public spaces, garden, fountained patio, gourmet restaurant, full spa and, to cap it all, interior designed, chic bedrooms. Do you need more?

On entering, a dark, minimalist reception is found to your right and a contemporary bar to your left. The temptation however is to peer through the wrought iron gate to the interior covered patio and fountain. Comfortable chairs and benches and the gentle sound of tinkling water set the standard for a relaxing stay. The staff, lead by Ignacio, the Head Receptionist are young and friendly, and they are immensely proud of the “special” place they work in.

There are so many comfortable areas – the salon with its fireplace, the conservatory, or the lovely garden with a large palm tree, aromatic plants, shaded areas and comforting tinkling Alhambra style fountain. It is a little haven in bustling downtown Granada. The interior designer Paco Ortega (who has amongst his stellar list of clients, King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain!) has lavished a lot of love and attention to detail on every aspect of the Hotel.

The Hotel comes equipped with a full Spa in the basement with all sorts of tempting massages and beauty treatments available. It is staffed from 10.00 until 15.00 hours, with massages and treatments available in the evening by appointment. There is an inviting heated jet pool, steam room with hot pebbled floor to massage your feet, sauna, Jacuzzi and a hi-tech gym if you want to work off a few pounds. Use of the Spa facilities is charged as an extra by the Hotel.

The 31 bedrooms continue the “dreamy feel”. All are different, but none the less luxurious. Rich fabrics and soft furnishings abound and there is a definite “touch of class”. They are fully equipped with all the luxuries - heating, aircon, flat screen satellite TVs, mini-bar, safe. Room service is provided until midnight. The Superior Junior Suite, with its 4 poster bed, romantic fireplace and wonderful balcony overlooking the garden is ideally suited for honeymooners. Bathrooms are beautiful – designer taps, shower heads and fittings have all been taken care of by Paco Ortega. Complimentary Penhaligon’s toiletries come as standard. There are Doubles and Twins (if you would like a Double bed – please specify at the time of booking), and the Junior Suite on the 4th floor (the only room on this floor!) features a huge private roof terrace.

Breakfasts are served at your leisure in the main dining room or in the garden when weather permits. The restaurant, "La Fabula", has very quickly gained a reputation as the “in place” to dine in Granada - not surprising as the food is exceptional! The eye-catching, predominantly black and white décor creates a striking contrast to the creams, browns and beiges of the rest of the Hotel. A young Basque Chef, Alvaro Arriaga, is creating a name for himself in the kitchen with his creative cuisine and the “gourmands of Granada” fill the restaurant at the weekends (reservations are often taken two to three weeks in advance!). One can dine outside in the garden in the warmer months under the stars. The restaurant is closed on Sundays.

The Hotel also has its own private parking a few metres away - park in front of the Hotel on arrival and the staff will park your car for you!

An ideal Hotel for those who want an historical building but on an intimate scale. Its location in the shopping area of the city off the Puerta Real is excellent. It really is a hotel with truly magnificent facilities – all done in the best possible taste!