Hotel del Pintor

Reviewed by Laura Dibben


DREAMING OF ART........

Just steps from La Plaza de la Merced, the main square of old-town Málaga, and the birth place of the legendary Pablo Picasso, lies this small, out of the ordinary Hotel. From the outside, the façade is in keeping with the historic architecture of the city; on the inside, surrealism awaits.

Internationally renowned artist Pepe Bornoy, a native of Málaga, designed this Hotel from top to bottom based on three colours: red, black and white. Dozens upon dozens of his original works grace the walls throughout the Hotel. Follow the cat´s eyes into the patio courtyard, where a 13 metre high mural stretches all the way to the top floor. The galleries that surround the interior patio are, in fact, art galleries! Contemplate the eccentric works of this artist as you listen to the trickle of the fountain from the patio below.

The 17 bedrooms, comprised of Doubles, Twins and Singles are arranged around the patio courtyard over three floors – yes there is a lift. The theme of reds white and black continues. Bornoy´s works are found in each of the modern rooms (even in the bathrooms!), where furnishings, drapery and linen each play their part in the artistic experience. Minimalist in design, the simple rooms are comfortable and spotlessly clean. Even the housekeeper, Pilar, has a funky outfit that fits in with the flamboyant in-your-face style of the Hotel! Some rooms face the street and whilst they do receive abundant natural light, street noise is inevitable in a city. If you are in party mood, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights are vibrant with loacl partygoers as they gather in the Plaza de la Merced until the early hours of the morning.. The quieter rooms face the patio, although have less natural light. Some have shower, others have bath, and all are equipped with television, heating and air-conditioning, free ADSL internet access, safe and hair dryer.

Only breakfast is served at the Hotel, but the location is superb for discovering the fabulous and ever growing selection of Málaga´s restaurants and tapas bars.

Although a car is not required in Málaga, if you do come by car the Hotel does not have private parking. There is a space for you to unload your luggage, and guests of the Hotel are given a special daily rate at a nearby 24-hour public car park.

When it comes to activities in the area, your stay in Málaga will not be complete without a visit to the Picasso Musuem, inaugurated in 2003, which houses the largest collection of his works worldwide. Director Floreal Roa and his team will gladly reserve tickets on your behalf, or if you require any tourist information all you have to do is ask. You are also just a few minutes on foot from the Cathedral, the Moorish Alcazaba and Gibralfaro castle, and a 15-minute walk to the beaches of Málaga. A commuter train runs frequently if you wish to visit other towns along the Costa del Sol, also just 10 to 15 minutes on foot.

An ideal citybreak hotel at exceptional value if you hold an appreciation for art and are looking for a cultural experience in the heart of a dynamic city. A wonderful base for the famous Holy Week processions and August fair. What´s more, is you are just 10 minutes by taxi from the Málaga airport.