"An irresistibly cosy traditional Andalucian house with a garden of lemon and orange trees, sitting on the slopes of the Alhambra."
Immortalized in a 1910 painting by Spanish artist Joaquín Sorolla, the Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol consists of a traditional Granadian house complete with adjacent terraced garden that once drew its waters from the area’s ingenious irrigation system or “alcubilla”. Located on a steep cobbled street above Granada’s historic Realejo district, this small, but utterly charming city residency passes the foremost test of any self-styled Andalucian lodging house – it feels more like a home than a hotel.
The secret lies in the artistic and cultural passions of its owner, Manuel - a local history expert - who, along with his wife, has invested a great deal of time and energy into ensuring that guests are both heartily welcomed and heavily indulged.
Entering the traditional white-washed building after a steep climb up from the city centre, one is quickly transported into a world of cool and unhurried bliss. Orange and lemon trees shade a well-tended garden, glicinia spills over a row of Tuscan columns, and a huge bunch of purple irises enliven a small, but otherwise well-ordered reception desk.
In a tastefully decorated lounge area, a well-stocked library stuffed with a wide choice of interesting books – everything from Richard Ford’s “A Handbook for Travellers in Spain” to Washington Irving’s “Tales of the Alhambra” – is great for an afternoon siesta. Kick off your shoes, flick open a good novel and - hay presto – here comes Manuel with the coffee.
Rooms
The Carmen’s seven distinctive bedrooms are furnished simply in soothing pastel shades, each coming amply equipped with large cupboards, spotless en suite bathrooms and a jaw-dropping 180 degree view of the city below. Small tables with accompanying chairs allow guests room to relax and flick through the stash of complimentary magazines whilst adjoining outer doors provide access to a series of private verandahs.
Come for:
- Manuel’s personal Alhambra tour – after hours!
- Rich, dark coffee on the terrace
- Curl up with Washington Irving in the sitting room
Not suitable for: - Nervous drivers – the narrow streets around the Carmen are not for the faint-hearted
Star rating:
Address: Aire Alta 12, 18009, Granada, Spain
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Address: Aire Alta 12, 18009, Granada, Spain
Rates from:
EUR 112
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Not suitable for
- Those who need lots of modern facilities
Children
This hotel is more ideal for adults.
Eating in
Snacks and meals can be served on the terrace, but this is a small hotel in a good location so you might be better off heading to town and exploring all the different options.
