Installed in the former royal palace built in 1928, this five-star hotel has been welcoming crowned heads and prestigious travelers for almost a century. Located in the heart of the historic district of Santa Cruz, this fortress-like palace remains the embodiment of Andalusian luxury, far from international standards. We tested it.
Hôtel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Catégorie :
5 étoiles
Spain, Seville
C. San Fernando, 2, Casco Antiguo, 41004 Seville, Spain
Prix :
From 450 €Â / night – double room basis
Le Figaro’s opinion
9/10
A historic monument as well as a hotel establishment, the Alfonso XIII has remained the essential address for wealthy travelers passing through Seville since the beginning of the 20th century. Commissioned by King Alfonso XIII to welcome the dignitaries of the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929, this palace designed by José Espiau y Muñoz still transcends luxury hotels today. Behind its torrid neo-Mudejar facade in red bricks, 148 rooms and suites – some of which have been recently renovated – make the Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel (Marriott group) an iconic address, between colonnaded patios and terrace where to see and be glimpses.
The situation
10/10
Ideally located opposite the University of Seville, a stone’s throw from the Royal Alcazares and the cathedral, the Alfonso XIII benefits from a prime location in the Santa Cruz district. This privileged location allows you to explore the historic center on foot, from the Giralda to the cobbled streets of the Barrio, while enjoying the relative calm of the facade overlooking San Fernando. The only downside: paid parking in a pedestrian zone, which imposes some logistical contortions on travelers by car.
Hôtel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection HotelCalle San Fernando, 2, 41004 Séville. Tel.:+34 954 91 70 00.
La déco
9/10
The architect José Espiau y Muñoz had thought big: patios with marble colonnades, coffered ceilings, Triana ceramics, period furniture… If the whole is aging admirably, the recent renovation has fortunately managed to preserve the soul of the place, while discreetly modernizing the services. With, in the common areas, delicious details in homage to the Andalusian aesthetic: polychrome azulejos, ornate ironwork, fountains gurgling in the patios, etc.
Photo presse
The rooms
9/10
With 126 rooms and 22 suites divided into three decorative styles – Moorish, Castilian and Baroque – the Alfonso XIII cultivates the delicate art of variation. The Royal and Reales Alcázares Suites offer the ultimate in Sevillian accommodation, with views of the gardens or the city, and even the standard rooms impress with their generous volumes, period furniture and marble bathrooms. Impeccable bedding, efficient air conditioning, surprisingly efficient wifi when you consider the thickness of the walls… Absolute comfort, and a remarkable eye for detail.
Service and equipment
9/10
The team perpetuates the tradition of Andalusian hospitality with a professionalism worthy of a palace. In terms of equipment, the outdoor swimming pool, set in the gardens facing the main patio, constitutes one of the establishment’s major assets. Spa, fitness room, reception rooms and concierge service complete the offer, with only one regret: a slight slowness of the staff, which can perhaps be justified by respect for the Sevillian rhythm.
- Spa
- Gym
- Accès handicapé
- Restaurant
- Pool
At the table and at the bar
8/10
Two gastronomic worlds coexist harmoniously: the San Fernando restaurant, located under the arcades of the main patio, which offers revisited Andalusian cuisine that we did not have the opportunity to try. On the Ena Sevilla terrace, Catalan chef Carles Abellán – formerly of El Bulli – creates a menu that is both modern and conventional, with a view of the Puerta de Jerez. Finally, the American Bar, an Art Deco temple of Sevillian cocktails, cultivates the art of “copeo” in a completely exotic setting. On the program, excellent mixology creations, a beautiful wine list, and attentive service, despite some delays in the high season.
Photo presse
The quality/price ratio
10/10
With rates starting at around €450 per night, the Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel fully embraces its positioning as a historic palace. A significant investment, justified by the uniqueness of the experience, the quality of the services, and this rare privilege of staying in an exceptional monument. But for those looking for a Sevillian experience in its purest expression, the addition is easily justified.
D’autres hôtels à proximité
Hôtel Casa de Las Artes à Madrid, the expert’s advice Figaro
7/10
Recently opened in Madrid, this four-star hotel, member of the Meliá Collection, in Madrid is ideally located near the major museums. Partly installed in the former headquarters of the Spanish Railways Association (Renfe), its common areas are grandiose. The rest is a little less so. We tested it.
Four Seasons Hotel in Madrid, the expert opinion of Figaro
8/10
The group thought very big for the inauguration of its first hotel in Spain, with this new complex behind the old facades of two streets in the heart of the city. Luxury in all its forms, with a multitude of restaurant offerings, bars, patios, shops, all crowned by a spectacular view of the city. We tested it.
Hôtel Only YOU à Madrid, l’avis d’expert du Figaro
9/10
In the heart of Madrid, this hotel is a cheerful address with drawers. The breakfast, which invites you to sleep in, is one of its assets. We tried it.
