Parador de Hondarribia

We have visited the town of Hondarribia which included a short peek into the parador on top of the hill. We wanted to take photos of the interior (beautiful), but only the reception area was allowed. It has other common areas, but access is not permitted. Reception staff was dry and had no interest to please anyone coming from outside God forbid to make the parador popular among others. Entitled looking, same for the cafe staff. Try the coffee just outside on the square opposite the parador. Tastes great, humble friendly staff and good prices.

Let's start with the good stuff. It is a beautiful hotel, set inside an ancient castle. We had a really great junior suite with clear views over to France. It was clean and spacious - with lots of room for relaxation. The hotel is really well located - just a short walk to the best pintxos bars and restaurants and right beside a beautiful cathedral which is also well worth a visit. Now the downside. The staff. Never in my life have I experienced such a disconnect between a stunning hotel and the most appalling staff and service you can imagine. Breakfast is an absolute shambles. Despite the hotel staggering the times you choose to have breakfast, there are far too few staff members on duty and the result is no-one clears tables efficiently, no one takes orders and when they do - they look at you like you are convicted criminal. I ordered scrambled eggs and without question they are the worst scrambled eggs I have ever seen or tasted. The white and the yolk had not even been mixed! (Neither of us asked for cooked food again) We watched a staff member setting a table and if you'd told me it was part of a comedy sketch where someone was asked to make as much noise as possible and literally throw cups and saucesrs at a table, I would have believed you. On leaving the hotel, we received no assistance with our bags and one of the porter staff actually walked through a door ahead of us and then didn't even hold it open. That isn't a staff training issue that is basic manners. If you are part of the management team at The Parado, here is a word of advice - sack every single member of staff, except the lady who serves wine at the bar. They are an utter disgrace to the hotel and the town of Honderibbia.

A very historic place to stay with the best breakfast service. Parking is tricky but it works. Nice rooms and incredible history in this castle.

This hotel is in a wonderful location overlooking the harbour. Superb views from the terrace and (superior) rooms. The building is very old retaining many original features. No dinner restaurant but that is probably a good thing because there are countless great restaurants on San Pedro street in town. Pintxos to die for! Staff could be a bit more cheerful but overall a wonderful stay.