Hotel Palacio del Mar

From the street, the hotel looks like a concrete block from the 60s or 70s, but the inside is a different story, spacious and modern, especially the rooms. I stayed one night before taking the ferry back to the UK. Check-in was fairly quick and friendly, and the room had a big comfortable double bed, walk-in shower, small balcony, TV, fridge and safe. There’s secure underground parking for €15 a night. A local woman told me free street parking was available all around the hotel, too. The neighborhood is mostly residential, but a short stroll gets you to a scenic seafront beach that locals enjoy, with places to get a drink or meal. Real Racing Club Santander’s home ground is directly across the road, so match days will bring crowds to the area. I’d happily stay again.

The senior suite was lovely and spacious, with a huge jacuzzi tub, a roomy balcony overlooking the view, and a big comfortable bed. Everything provided was in good shape and very nice. We had a really pleasant visit.

The room was spacious and the bed was wide, but the mattress had a dip in the middle, so I kept rolling toward the center. It was one whole mattress, not two joined together. The room also felt old and smelled of tobacco. Breakfast was disappointing, with very few choices. Even during covid times, I’ve stayed places with fewer stars that provided better service. Compared with what I expect from a four-star hotel today, this didn’t feel like one.

The price felt fair because the staff were friendly and helpful, the rooms were clean, and the location was good. I’d recommend the place. It would have been nice to have a kettle in the room for tea and coffee.