Hotel Picos de Europa

The hotel offers a highly convenient and comfortable stay, distinguished by its central location and the excellent integrated restaurant and cafeteria which provides a significant benefit to guests. Many visitors are impressed by the hotel's exceptional value for money, often noting it surpasses expectations for a two-star establishment. The consistent cleanliness of the rooms and the generally attentive staff contribute to a positive experience. This hotel is particularly well-suited for sightseers and tourists eager to explore the city on foot, given its proximity to major attractions and transport links. Business travelers and solo travelers also find it a practical and comfortable base, while couples appreciate the ease of access to dining and entertainment. To make the most of your stay, be sure to take advantage of the discount offered to guests at the hotel's popular restaurant, and note that while the hotel is centrally located, its main entrance can be a little tricky to spot initially.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently praise the hotel's practical and well-maintained facilities. The presence of reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property is highly appreciated, ensuring guests can stay connected. A unique and highly valued amenity for those traveling with bicycles is the secure bike storage available directly within the lobby, accessible 24 hours. The hotel also benefits from a 24-hour reception and service, providing peace of mind and assistance at any time. Rooms are equipped with effective heating and air conditioning units, allowing guests to control their comfort regardless of the weather. Thoughtful touches include the provision of complimentary water bottles daily and umbrellas for guest use, which are particularly useful given the local climate. While some guests noted the absence of a mini-fridge or safe in the rooms, the overall convenience and quality of the available amenities are well-received.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel receives widespread commendation for its spotless cleanliness, with guests frequently describing rooms as immaculate and well-maintained. Rooms are generally found to be spacious, though some single rooms are noted as being smaller, yet still functional. Most guests report comfortable beds and quality linens, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, a few guests found the mattresses to be less comfortable, with some even mentioning feeling springs. The modern bathrooms are a highlight, often described as ample and featuring good showers and a full complement of toiletries. While the hotel is generally quiet despite its central setting, some guests occasionally noted noise levels from adjacent rooms or pipe noise from the plumbing system. Rooms are equipped with a desk and a small seating area, adding to the comfort and functionality for guests.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's integrated restaurant and cafeteria are a significant draw, highly popular with both guests and locals, creating a lively atmosphere. The food quality is consistently praised, with many guests enjoying the delicious and good-value options, including the excellent menu del dia. Breakfast, often included, is described as hearty and good, though some guests found the selection to be somewhat limited compared to a full buffet, preferring the simplicity of the offerings. Hotel guests benefit from a 10% discount on meals, which is a well-appreciated perk. While many guests commend the attentive service and professionalism of the restaurant staff, there have been isolated instances of guests experiencing slow or inattentive service, with one particularly negative encounter reported regarding a staff member's demeanor. Overall, the dining experience is considered a major asset.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an exceptional central location, placing guests within easy walking distance of Santander's main attractions, including the Cathedral, shopping districts, and various restaurants and bars. Its proximity to key transport hubs is also a major advantage, being just a short walk from both the bus station and train station, facilitating easy arrival and departure. A taxi rank conveniently located just outside the hotel provides quick access to other parts of the city or the airport. While the location is highly convenient for exploring on foot, guests should be aware that parking in the vicinity can be challenging and expensive, with limited options. Additionally, some visitors initially found the hotel's main alley entrance a bit difficult to locate, as it is tucked away from the main street.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. Many visitors highlight the attentive and welcoming demeanor of the reception team, who are often commended for their willingness to assist with inquiries and provide local recommendations. The quick check-in process is frequently mentioned, with some guests even being accommodated with early check-in when rooms were available. The hotel also offers convenient luggage storage for guests before check-in or after check-out. Housekeeping staff are noted for their efficiency and for maintaining the high standards of cleanliness. While the vast majority of feedback on service is overwhelmingly positive, a few isolated comments indicated less satisfactory interactions with some restaurant staff, though this was not a widespread issue.

Additional Information
Many guests expressed surprise that the hotel is rated only two stars, feeling it deserves a higher classification due to its quality and service. A practical tip for new arrivals is to be aware that the hotel's main entrance is located down a small alleyway, which can be a little challenging to find initially, despite its central position. For those relying on public transport, the hotel thoughtfully provides a Bonobus (public transport card) for guest use, simplifying travel around the city. While the staff are generally very accommodating, some international guests noted that a few restaurant staff members occasionally struggled with English, which could lead to minor communication challenges during dining. Overall, the hotel is seen as an excellent choice for short stays, offering a comfortable and convenient base.