Whether an arriving pilgrim with a passion for luxury, or a city break visitor wanting somewhere special to stay, this 18th century former water mill is sure to refresh and rejuvenate
History –
Whilst relaxing in one of the deep, comforting and enveloping sofas in the Hotel’s drawing room, it’s hard to believe that not so long ago this building was in ruins, just a shell, overgrown and forgotten.
This former 18th century paper mill was powered by the clear waters of the adjacent river, now a tranquil spot bordering the hotel’s gardens. The mill continued to earn its keep as a textile factory, brewery and even an ice factory, but in the 1940s it was closed and its decline began.
Now it’s Relais and Chateaux’s Santiago de Compostela property (their only one in Galicia), part of their small collection of hotels in Spain.
I’d just completed a week on the Camino de Santiago, so I was eager to find a place to relax, recharge and of course, treat myself!
Rooms –
The welcome was genuine and professional. Our luggage was already waiting for us is our prepared rooms, and on the antique bureau was a hand written welcome note. The hotel’s rooms and suites are decorated in a classic, elegant style, combining antiques with some contemporary touches. Our double rooms overlooked the peaceful gardens and the river below. The exposed stone walls add a striking feature, and the double windows assured a peaceful night. The turn down service treat, a little cake with handmade chocolate was a nice touch.
There is a minibar in the room, sparsely stocked with water and refreshments, but they are included in the room rate.
The immaculate beds, with down pillows and comforters, and Egyptian linens, made me feel like I was sleeping in a cloud.
Restaurant –
Breakfast was included in the competitive internet rate, and didn’t disappoint. There is a self-service Nespresso coffee machine, so I was able to get my multiple caffeine fix, and there were also a la carte hot breakfast dishes included. There was only one member of staff who was quite distracted, but we were only with a few other guests, so it didn’t matter – I’d imagine at busy times service might be slow.
We didn’t dine in house as we wanted to go to the Cathedral and then spend our evening in Santiago de Compostela. The hotel is out of town, in a residential area, about a 7 – 10 euro taxi ride away, depending time of day and whether you have luggage or not. There is also a bus service if you are feeling eco-minded.
Spa –
The spa and pool opened at 11am – it’s housed in a modern wing of the property. There is a classic pool spa circuit and then a menu of pampering treatments. Our schedule didn’t allow for a massage or therapy so I can’t comment, but the spa is well presented and peaceful. They are rather proud of their bamboo forest…
THE UPS
- Understated luxury – Relais & Chateaux deliver service with a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’
- Tranquillity – peaceful riverside setting
- The Look – country house chic with contemporary touches
THE DOWNS
- Out of town – you need to take a taxi to enjoy the delights of Santiago de Compostela
- Extras – Spa access and pool use is not included in the room rate
- Minibar – although water and sodas are included, would be good to have a full minibar selection
