Bilbao, SpainIndautxu
Meliá Bilbao
Sculptural terracotta block
Indautxu Bilbao, Spain
Renovated
2024
Price
$$
Rated for
Design Wellness LocalOutside the door
The house
MeliaSculptural terracotta block
The building stands as a geometric rust-red block, opening into an eight-story atrium filled with natural light.
What it’s good at
Notable
Terracotta blocks by Ricardo Legorreta frame an atrium inspired by artist Eduardo Chillida.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
This luxury offering from global brand Meliá was built in 2003, though its earthy rust-red desert tones from Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta give it an almost timeless appearance.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Doña Casilda Park spreads out beside the building, and the Guggenheim Museum is a short walk along the river.
1 of 5
The rooms
Rooms use a restrained cream and black palette with marble bathrooms, looking out across the park or the river.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The sixth-floor heated pool sits inside an opening in the terracotta facade, looking out toward the mountains.
The spa & gym
At the table
Sumendi cooks regional Basque produce over open coals, and Bribone serves morning espresso and evening cocktails.
How it began
The building opened in 2004 as part of the Abandoibarra waterfront redevelopment, originally debuting under the Sheraton flag.
Bilbao
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The app
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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.