Last Updated on November 11, 2023
Heritage and luxury in the Heart of Seville
“I feel a bit like a 17th Century Spanish Aristocrat” said one of my fellow guests at the Palacio Villapanes, an 18th Century villa, that is now an elegant hotel. I could certainly understand what she meant, after experiencing for myself the grand marble entrance hall, high ceilings, and the unique family crest over the stylish staircase.
The hotel building dates from 1729, when it was owned by Admiral López-Pintado, an important personality in the history of Andalusia, and the style follows the typical Sevillian house, arranged around two patios, with a rear garden of orange trees. This garden turned out to be an absolute haven of peace for us after a few days of exploring and sightseeing among Seville’s graceful streets and historic buildings.
This was especially true on the first day of our stay when we took a walking tour of the city and our guide explained how Seville was once the capital of Muslim Spain and also the centre for the Spanish exploration of the New World.
Seville, the largest city of Andalusia and the 4th city of Spain is known for its tapas, flamenco, and its history. It was because of this, we had decided that on our few days’ holiday, The Palacio was a stylish and appropriate place to stay; a boutique hotel, that embodies the city’s old-world charm, with modern luxury, and yet just a 12-minute walk from the centre of Seville.
On our arrival the staff were incredibly helpful, offering drinks and organizing the best use of our time in the city. Valeria, at the information desk, began by setting up visits to the Cathedral and Imperial Palace as well as giving useful suggestions for local restaurants. They could also offer wine tasting, tour guides, bike rental or flamenco shows. To add to our convenience the room key holder included a useful map of Seville.
Palacio Villapanes is part of the CoolRooms collection of properties and is in the portfolio of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. There are 50 rooms, each one offering either views of the city or of the two patios – and they are arranged in four different categories: Deluxe, Premium, Palace and Suites.
The El Torreón Suite in the dome of the building, has a terrace, coffered ceilings, windows and a 19th-century marble bathtub, yet includes the latest contemporary extras such as an Apple computer, Loewe plasma televisions, Bang & Olufsen speakers and Jacob Jensen telephones
All rooms are non-smoking and have a Nespresso coffee machine, designer furniture, freestanding baths and showers with 3 types of jets. Molton Brown bathroom products are supplied alongside bathrobes, slippers, a hairdryer, a safe and a minibar. Every bedroom tells a story – from the rich tapestries to the ornate headboards – making a stay a real journey through time.
Everywhere there is high-speed Wi-Fi and the flavoured water on offer at all times in the reception is a handy addition, especially on warm days. The 24-hour room service means that tapas can be ordered any time of the day, to eat in the room, the bar or the garden.
The in-house dining room, “Restaurante Los Rincones del Marques” offers an extensive menu that celebrates the flavours of Andalusia, expertly paired with fine wines, all in a sophisticated yet intimate setting. Dishes include wild seabass from the Cadiz Coast with saffron, shallots and clams, and La Vega de Sevilla, creamy cheesecake.
Breakfast is not included in the hotel rates, but was nevertheless delicious, offering fresh and tasty dishes, with the menu presented on an iPad. My avocado toast with poached egg and salmon was tasty although we learnt not to order everything in the beginning, as while eating our fruit, cereal and nuts, the main course can get cold!
On top of the building, a roof terrace has spectacular views over the city and of course, the scene is even more special during sunset when the pink glow lights up all the roof tiles across the town. Here a small pool is opened during the summer months, with accompanying loungers.
Downstairs, inside the hotel, there is a spa which includes a jacuzzi, steam room, contrast showers, a sauna, a relaxation area and treatment rooms, where massages and facials can be booked. There is also a small gym with the latest generation of Technogym and Kinesis equipment.
Since December 2009 the Palacio de Villapanés has been protected as an “Asset of Interest” of the city of Seville, as it is considered one of the main baroque manifestations of the 18th century that preserves most of its original architectural elements.
Another good reason to stay here when visiting Seville, city of the Flamenco.
Fact Box
Palacio Villapanes
C. Santiago, 31,
41003 Sevilla,
Spain
Phone: +34 954 50 20 63
As part of her luxury experience, Lucy enjoyed lounge access from Holiday Extras at Gatwick Airport.
