"Las Casas del Rey de Baeza" lies in the heart of the highly desirable Barrio Santa Cruz (the old Jewish Quarter), just a short stroll away from the city centre. A former Andalusian Palace with an elegant white and ochre façade, cobbled courtyard and classy interior, it is undoubtedly one of the most charming and well-located hotels in Sevilla, embodying all the hospitality, style and culture of this wonderful city.
Situated in the old part of town, with a palace on one side of a cobbled square and a whitewashed church on another, from the outside it remains entirely traditional. Inside its crisp, contemporary interiors will seduce you immediately.
It pans out onto three interior patios where the grey-blue wooden beams and rattan window coverings of its balconies contrast against cascading, colourful plants. Old ceramic pots and mill stones are scattered about, stone pillars flank the sides and steps lead up to cloistered walkways. These patios are welcome pools of calm where you can sit in the shade of the huge banana plants, perfect places to relax at any time of day - or night - when candle lighting makes them even more romanic.
Inside, the style is smart, but homely. The library and sitting room are comfortable and classy, with squishy brown leather armchairs, zulu paintings, tall cacti, even birds in an antique cage. There is also a stylish restaurant with low lighting, modern art on the walls, superb food (light, simple, regional cuisine is the speciality) and an adjoining leafy terrace. The whole place is as bright as a Van Gogh sunflower!
The 41 stylishly appointed bedrooms are on the upper floor, leading off from two of the patios. Décor is sleek and contemporary, with neutral fabrics set off against dark brown leather and wood, interesting modern art, DVD’s and flatscreen satellite TV’s (you can sign out movies and cds from the front desk free of charge). Sliding doors of frosted glass lead through to excellent, slate and marble bathrooms with spotless fittings. Everything from dressing gowns and slippers to toothbrushes and shaving kits are provided.
Some of the rooms look out to these beautiful patios; others look out to the square and are perhaps a little lighter but sometimes a little noisier.
There is an elevator for those with weary legs, which also rises up to the last and, perhaps, best surprise of all - a rooftop pool (albeit a small one) and terrace, where you can make the most of the beautiful views across Sevilla's terracotta skyline.
Wonderfully sophisticated yet casually elegant and comfortable at the same time, it was described by one American visitor who has travelled extensively as "the best European hotel I have stayed in". Others have written glowingly about the warmth and helpfulness of the staff, whilst the food (whether breakfast, lunch or dinner) is highly recommended. There is a bar in the restaurant and you can also order drinks, both in your room or in one of the lounge areas. The rooms all have reasonably priced mini bars.
Undoubtedly one of the most charming hotels in Sevilla, its quiet, prestigious location makes it an excellent base from which to discover the delights and enchantment of this magnificent city (the Cathedral and Giralda are just ten minutes walk away). And a sublime and relaxing haven to return to after the rigours of a day's sightseeing.
