Loved my stay at Malaga’s Grand Hotel Miramar

Enjoyed such a wonderful stay in Malaga’s Grand Hotel Miramar, in Spain’s Andalucia region.

I am a huge admirer of historic hotels, and the Grand Hotel Miraramar had it in spades.

Construction began on this hotel by architect Fernando Guerrero Strachan in 1921, and it was inaugurated as Hotel Principe de Asturias in 1926, with King Alfonso XIII at the official opening ceremony.

Unfortunately, its life as a luxury hotel was short-lived. The environment would very quickly change with the start of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 and, subsequently, with all of Europe embroiled in World War II. Following the war, Spain under Franco’s rule was not a well-heeled tourist destination. The hotel was converted to different uses, including a hospital during the Spanish Civil War and later a regional court.

It was recently restored and returned to its function as a luxury hotel – in 2017.

I’m so happy I was able to stay here. It is exactly then type of art deco environment, infused with 1920s character, that I love. But this being Andalucia, the hotel incorporates whimsical Moorish elements that adds to its elegance.

The hotel is perfectly situated a short walk from the historic city center (and the train that transports you directly from the airport) and its positioning directly across from the beach. I was there in December, so (despite the sun) it wasn’t the ideal temperature for taking a dip, but there was a lovely garden pool as well.

I loved its wonderfully elegant common areas – the lobby/lounge with piano music and drinks in then evenings that was a nice place to unwind after a day of walking kilometers. The rooftop bar with great views over the sea. The lovely back garden with views out to the Mediterranean and plenty of space to sit and enjoy the sunshine – even in December. I also got a little writing done here … feeling rather spoiled in my grand, 1920s environment.

There is a spa I did not have time to visit (next time!) and a small but well-appointed gym I did enjoy using. Breakfasts were fabulous in the sun-drenched breakfast space and the hotel service was friendly and helpful.

A truly enjoyable stay, with shades of 1920s art deco elegance I love so much. I would have loved to have stayed a week, explored in mornings and spent afternoons in that pretty garden with Mediterranean views to write.

I’m glad I managed a little bit while I was there. And, since I was visiting days before my book launch, I also raised a toast to Rome’s Last Noble Palace. More than fitting in this Spanish palace-style hotel.

I’ll definitely be back!