Palacio Arriluce

Character and identity

A restored early 20th-century palace perched above the Bay of Abra in Neguri, the Bilbao seaside enclave the city's bourgeoisie escaped to a century ago. The architecture is an unusual Basque interpretation of Queen Anne and neo-Gothic, listed since 2001 and reopened as a hotel by the Ybarra family who commissioned it. Inside, expect art by Sonia Delaunay and František Kupka, a library with a secret door, and a former chapel now serving as the Kupka cocktail bar. Beñat Ormaetxea runs three restaurants, anchored by the Basque tasting menus at Delaunay, alongside the Neguri Spa and a pool overlooking the bay.

Who's it for

Bottom line

The defining draw is the combination of a genuinely original landmark building and Ormaetxea's cooking, which alone justifies the trip. Book the Arriluce Suite if budget allows, or a Marina Suite for sea views and a terrace; the pergola superiors suit those who want a garden. Time a visit around a Delaunay tasting menu and a day in the Urdaibai reserve.