San Sebastian, SpainUlia
Hotel Boutique Mendi Argia
Restored Basque villa
Restored Basque villa
Two brothers restored this ruined cliffside villa into a quiet eight-room house looking down over San Sebastian.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
this villa on the cliffs overlooking San Sebastián is reincarnated as a charming boutique hotel that’s both coolly modern and deeply rooted in the past.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Hiking paths run along Mount Ulia behind the property, and Zurriola Beach sits just down the hill.
The rooms
Oak furniture warms the minimalist spaces, and select suites have deep soaking tubs carved from Markina marble.
The infinity pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The narrow infinity pool runs along the hillside terrace, looking out over the coastline and the city below.
At the table
Tables are laid on the garden terrace under the trees for breakfast and private dinners.
The original structure has been carefully preserved to respect its links to the landscape, complemented with interior design by Openhouse magazine co-founder Mari Luz Vidal and CiOestudio architect Sara Ojanguren.
How it began
The restored villa was abandoned for decades, but still keeps its original wooden staircase and a garden pelota court.
San Sebastian
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.