A former bank in the historic centre of Jerez is set to be transformed into a four-star hotel, complete with an underground spa, hydrotherapy facilities and gym.

Jerez City Council has given the green light to the rehabilitation of the former Banco de Andalucia offices at number 18 Calle Larga, one of the city’s best-known central thoroughfares.

The project will create a 51-room hotel with space for 102 guests and will become the third four-star hotel project on Calle Larga alone, as investment continues to pour into Jerez’s historic centre.

The council’s Local Historical Heritage Commission approved the plans at its latest meeting as part of a wider package of interventions aimed at breathing new life into the old town.

The new establishment, to be known as Zenial Jerez, is being promoted by Zenial Hotels S.L.

Perhaps its most eye-catching facilities will be found underground.

The building’s basement will be converted into a private area for hotel guests featuring a spa and hydrotherapy zone, gym, television room and leisure and social spaces.

A restaurant, reception and communal areas will occupy the hotel’s entrance floor, while the 51 rooms will be distributed across the upper levels.

The property was built predominantly during the 20th century and was once occupied by the Banco de Andalucía, which had its roots in a financial institution founded in Jerez in the 19th century.

It later became part of Banco Popular before ultimately falling under Santander following its takeover of the lender.

The building ceased operating as a bank in 2018 and parts of the property have since remained unused.

The property is included in the catalogue of Jerez’s historic centre and is designated for architectural conservation.

As a result, developers have been authorised to carry out a partial rehabilitation that will preserve the original façade, while works must also comply with its Level IV archaeological protection.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.