INNSiDE by Meliá San Sebastian Orly

The staff made a tough arrival much easier. My father hurt his leg that day, and the reception team and even some workmen helped almost carry him in. They went out of their way for us, and when I asked to add another night, the receptionist suggested how to get the best price. I’m grateful for their hospitality. We might not have enjoyed the trip otherwise. I’ll come back, hopefully without the drama next time. The rooms were good quality and spacious for the price, and the location is excellent value in San Sebastián. We hadn’t requested a view, but our two fourth-floor rooms faced different ways, one toward the sea and one toward the old town. The sea view was incredible, with windows across the whole outer wall that you can open to hear the waves. There’s secure underground parking. No room service, but in this city it’s better to head out and try food in different places. Tip: ask for the highest floor you can get with a sea view.

The suite worked really well for travelling with our toddler. Its layout, terrace, and large bathroom gave us room to stay up and enjoy ourselves after our child went to sleep. We spent three nights in a Junior Suite with Terrace. It was tidy, clean, and well arranged. The staff were friendly and attentive, parking was very convenient, and the hotel is close to La Concha beach and an easy walk from the Old Town.

The room didn’t have much storage. There was only one chair, the bedside tables had no drawers, and the wardrobe was small, so we had to leave things in our suitcases. The hotel is a street back from the centre of the bay, which was a good location. The restaurant serves breakfast and limited room service, mostly pizza. We stayed four nights and were upgraded from a standard room to a superior one, with tea and coffee facilities. From there we could see over nearby buildings toward the beach. Staff were polite and helpful, and we paid €16 each per day for breakfast, which we thought was worth it.

I’ve attached photos because it’s hard to believe the room was meant to be a premium experience. My spouse and I booked a sea-view room for our wedding night and the start of our honeymoon, and I’d mentioned the occasion beforehand. It was deeply disappointing, especially with rooms still available online in low season. The room looked nothing like the pictures, including in its size, condition, and type. The walls were stained or damaged, and the place felt run-down and neglected. There was shower gel residue in the tub, hair, and even a small spider. Mold was growing in the shower and on other walls. The shower seemed poorly cleaned, and my husband and I both woke with terrible allergies. It felt like the room hadn’t been properly maintained or cleaned for months. Later that evening, we took our concerns to the front desk and explained it was our wedding night. The gentleman was rude and dismissive, saying there was nothing he could do. He didn’t apologize or congratulate us. That lack of courtesy was astonishing. It’s disheartening. From family experiences in Spain, I know other hotels can take pride in helping guests mark special occasions. My parents have often received champagne and thoughtful treats for their anniversaries. This hotel seemed not to care or value its guests. The stay was a complete letdown, and I hope nobody else has to go through this while celebrating a wedding or honeymoon.