Aparthotel Essenzia de Castilla

The room was excellent, and the e-check-in was completely straightforward.

The rooms have a modern, functional look, which we liked, but some details seem to be slipping. The coffee maker didn't work, apparently from lack of maintenance; neither the sink nor shower soap had been topped up, and the bath towels were small. Those are simple fixes, but they affected our impression. The part we liked least was having to collect the key and pay out on the street. I can see how that arrangement is more convenient for some people, especially the owners.

The apartment had lots of natural light, updated decor and materials, a lift, and easy parking, which were the positives. But the cleanliness was poor: hair and food bits covered the floor, the kitchenware was very dirty, the frying pan was greasy, and the oven had baking paper with food scraps on it. There was no dish drainer, so washed dishes had to sit on the counter. The mattress had large stains of unclear origin, and its base was too small, leaving the mattress sticking out. The only mirror was in the toilet, and it was so close, about half a meter away, that it was hard to see properly. There is no reception. To get the access codes, you have to go to another hotel in the center, pay with Bizum, or provide a credit card number.

The location is hard to beat, right on the main avenue of Aranda de Duero and just a five-minute walk from the main square, with its bars, restaurants, and shops. There's also a pastry shop two minutes away that does wonderful breakfasts, with amazing service from the three women who run it. The town is large and beautiful. The apartment itself is cozy, with a small balcony, a large bedroom with a kitchenette, and a practical, attractive bathroom. It has heating, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. I highly recommend staying here.