Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel

Nice place, nothing to complain

From the moment you arrive, there is a real wow effect. The hotel is absolutely stunning, with an atmosphere that instantly reminds you of the golden age of the Orient Express. Stepping into the grand hall feels like entering another world. The welcome is very good. The valet works like magic, discreetly and efficiently taking care of the car and luggage with impressive speed. Check-in is smooth and easy, with a glass of champagne on arrival. Walking through the corridors feels like a tour in itself. The Junior Suite we stayed in was superb. Timeless decor, luxurious details, and every comfort you could wish for. A surprising detail was the Japanese toilet in the bathroom, with heated seat, multiple wash functions, UV light sanitizing, and automatic flush. The indoor pool is another highlight, serene and beautifully designed. It’s a shame drinks cannot be ordered at the poolside. The hotel does have a somewhat rigid structure: pool access requires booking in advance, is restricted to certain rooms, and swimming caps are mandatory (thankfully sold on site). Dining is high-quality, but the restaurant operates on strict schedules. Dinner service stops sharply at 11:00 PM. We arrived at 11:05 PM and were refused service, while a couple who just arrived before us was seated. We ended up dining at the bar, which turned out to be a wonderful alternative. The only surprise was that the bartender didn’t speak a word of English, which felt unusual for a hotel of this level. For a pleasant extra, we recommend taking the small trail starting to the right of the hotel. It runs along the forest and circles back through the town. A 30-minute walk that offers a new perspective on the hotel and a peaceful walk into the nature.