“For us, every guest is unique…That client has come to my home today. Today is their day…” – Pedro Subijana
Location
Just ten minutes from the world-class gastronomic destination of Donostia / San Sebastián, which boasts a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants and a celebrated pintxos culture, lies Akelarre. Set atop Monte Igueldo, the Modernist property is secluded from the metropolitan buzz, instead overlooking cattle fields, green meadows and the Bay of Biscay.
Atmosphere
The sea, which is constantly in view, has an almost gravitational pull and does much of the talking. Its natural magnetism is accentuated by vast floor-to-ceiling windows and furniture positioned so that it almost always faces the water. From still, steely seas and damp mizzle to bright blue skies and sparkling waters, the interior and its ambience feel suited to every mood created by the Basque coastal weather.
As one would expect from a mid-century-style property with windows for walls, the interiors are naturally light, punctuated by only a few suitably dark corridors. Outside, on Akelarre’s many terraces, birdsong fills the air alongside the scent of the salty sea.
Dining
There is, of course, Akelarre, serving extraordinary, world-class dishes ranging from delicate seafood and grilled meats to raw vegetables sculpted into shells across two tasting menus. Helmed by Pedro Subijana since 1975, the restaurant received its first Michelin star in 1978, its second in 1982 and its third in 2007. Subijana is a key figure in contemporary Spanish gastronomy and one of the founders of the New Basque Cuisine movement of the 1970s.
Downstairs, Espazio Oteiza offers a more relaxed but equally excellent Basque menu, served in a bright indoor dining room or on outdoor terraces overlooking the natural landscape. It is perfect for a more informal meal, light bar snacks or coffee. The beautiful mid-century cocktail bar at Oteiza is an atmospheric spot in which to enjoy an aperitif or digestif.
Design
Studio Mecanismo is responsible for the hotel’s architectural and interior design. Built only ten years ago, the hotel is an addition to the iconic restaurant, which opened in 1970. In keeping with the restaurant’s style, the property has a mid-century, 1970s aesthetic, yet retains a freshness that makes it feel as though it opened its doors only last year. Clean lines, functional forms and sizeable glass windows create a tranquil atmosphere that places the focus firmly on the surrounding landscape. At the heart of the property is a dramatic solid-iron spiral staircase connecting all floors.
Aside from its exquisite functional design, a handful of sculptural works are positioned throughout the building. The most curious is an impressively large, elongated bronze bust of a young girl, its surface resembling carved wood, by Catalan sculptor Jaume Plensa. Another is a small, hand-carved work by Jorge Oteiza, a friend of Subijana, perched just outside the restaurant that bears the artist’s name.
Rooms & Suites
The twenty-two rooms fall into three categories: Superior Horizon, Panoramic Junior Suite and Ocean Suite. As their names suggest, all face out towards the Cantabrian Sea. The interiors are clean and airy, yet spacious enough to feel at home in, with generous dressing rooms, bathtubs and rainfall showers. The Ocean Suites feature terraces and indoor-outdoor plunge pools with uninterrupted sea views. A thoughtful welcome gift, an exclusive bottle of Fincas de Ganuza Rioja, is placed beside the minibar, and some guests choose to take it home as a souvenir.
Wellness
Much like the nightclub that formerly stood in its place, the spa is an adults-only space. With an indoor pool, heated hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and three treatment cabins, it is designed as a circuit. The relaxation area completes the experience, inviting you to unwind on a lounger facing the blissful, uninterrupted sea view. The fitness room, equipped with Technogym machines, is open around the clock.
Closing
If Donostia / San Sebastián is the site of a culinary pilgrimage, then Akelarre is its sacred shrine and sanctuary. You don’t stay here to experience the city; you stay to experience Akelarre in its entirety.
Photography courtesy of Akelarre.
