Granada has welcomed a stunning new addition to its luxury hotel scene with the opening of the Gran Hotel Claridge.

The five-star Grand Luxury property is just steps from the city’s iconic cathedral.

And after four years of restoration work, the former Villamena building has been transformed into one of the city’s most exclusive hotels, blending centuries of history with modern luxury.

The hotel occupies a prime location beside Granada Cathedral and incorporates archaeological remains of the historic Alhondiga de los Genoveses, a medieval trading house where merchants once dealt in silk, spices, gold and precious jewels.

Guests are welcomed with an unusual check-in experience known as the ‘welcome ritual’.

Instead of simply collecting a room key, visitors are greeted with a chilled towel, a complimentary herbal drink called Suenos de la Alhambra and a choice of three bespoke fragrances created exclusively for the hotel.

The selected scent is then used to perfume their room before arrival.

The hotel offers 70 individually designed rooms across ten categories, including the impressive 116-square-metre Gran Suite Catedral, which overlooks the cathedral and even features a record player stocked with vinyl albums by Granada artists including Enrique Morente, Miguel Rios and La Plazuela.

Room rates start from around €184 per night, while the signature suite costs up to €1,200.

Throughout the property, Granada’s heritage takes centre stage.

Traditional Fajalauza ceramics, handcrafted marquetry, locally sourced produce and Nasrid-inspired interiors have all been incorporated into the design, while original architectural features have been carefully preserved.

Guests can also relax in the hotel’s spa, browse an archaeological gallery showcasing the ancient remains discovered during construction, or enjoy tea and cocktails in the exclusive lobby lounge.

The biggest attraction, however, is undoubtedly the rooftop.

Home to the Zima restaurant, swimming pool and sun terrace, it offers panoramic views of Granada Cathedral, the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains from one of the city’s most privileged vantage points.

The restaurant focuses on modern interpretations of traditional Granadan cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, while a second fine dining restaurant, Inizio, has also opened within the hotel.

The hotel is also inviting locals inside through guided tours showcasing its history, archaeological remains and rooftop terrace, reflecting its ambition to become a cultural landmark as well as a luxury destination.

For visitors looking to combine Granada’s history with five-star comfort, the Gran Hotel Claridge Granada is set to become one of the city’s standout places to stay.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.