Mercure San Sebastián Monte Igueldo

This hotel is celebrated for its breathtaking panoramic views of the city and bay, a signature feature that consistently captivates guests and makes it a memorable destination. Its elevated position offers unparalleled vistas, appealing greatly to sightseers and couples seeking a romantic escape with stunning backdrops. While the location provides spectacular scenery, it also means a degree of isolation from the city center, making it a good fit for travelers who prioritize tranquility and scenic beauty over immediate urban access. For families, the proximity to an amusement park adds an element of fun. To maximize your experience, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for the best views, and be prepared to utilize taxis or the funicular for transportation to and from the city.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though some aspects receive mixed feedback. The rooftop pool is frequently highlighted for its spectacular views, providing a relaxing space, although guests note it is often closed outside of the summer season. The bar and lounge areas are praised for their elegant ambiance and stunning vistas, making them ideal spots for unwinding. However, the Wi-Fi connectivity is a common point of concern, often described as weak and unstable. The air conditioning system is a significant issue for many, as it is frequently reported as non-operational or only available seasonally, leading to uncomfortable room temperatures. A fitness center is available, but some guests mention limited operating hours and a lack of basic provisions like water or sanitizing products. Parking on-site is generally considered convenient and free for guests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is varied. Many rooms offer spectacular views, which are a major highlight. The beds are often described as comfortable, though some guests find them too firm or note that twin beds are pushed together instead of a true double. Noise levels are a significant concern for numerous guests, with complaints about thin walls allowing sounds from neighboring rooms, conversations, and even the nearby amusement park to be easily heard. While some reviews praise the overall cleanliness of the rooms, others report issues such as dust, hairs in the bathroom, or dirty glassware. Room amenities are generally basic, including instant coffee and a kettle, with some rooms featuring a Nespresso machine and quality bath products. The overall condition of rooms is mixed, with some appearing modern and clean, while others are described as dated and in need of refurbishment, particularly the bathrooms.

Dining & Food Quality
Dining experiences at the hotel receive mixed reviews. The breakfast is often praised for its variety, including fresh fruits and a rich buffet, and the dining area offers wonderful views. However, many guests find the breakfast to be overpriced, with some reporting cold cooked items and a lack of staff. The main restaurant, El Torreón, garners both positive and negative comments; some guests commend the quality of dishes like fish and steak and the attentive service, while others describe the food as average, overpriced, or poorly prepared, with slow service. The bar also serves food, which some guests find satisfactory, but others criticize it as terrible, overpriced, and limited in selection. Room service is noted to have restricted hours, sometimes making it unavailable during certain times.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location on a hilltop provides its most outstanding feature: unparalleled panoramic views of the bay and ocean. However, this comes at the cost of being quite isolated from the city center. Most guests find it necessary to use transportation to reach attractions, as there is nothing within walking distance nearby. The funicular railway offers convenient access down to the base of the hill, but its limited operating hours, often stopping early in the evening, can be a significant inconvenience. After the funicular closes, guests must rely on taxis or a bus, which can be expensive or difficult to secure, especially during peak times. Walking from the funicular base to the city center is a long trek. On the positive side, parking is readily available and free for hotel guests.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is varied. Many guests commend the friendly staff and their helpfulness, highlighting specific individuals for their excellent service in the restaurant and bar. The check-in process can be slow, with some guests experiencing long waits and rooms not being ready at the advertised time. While some guests report positive interactions with the reception staff, others describe them as unhelpful, unresponsive, or lacking in communication. Similarly, bar and restaurant staff receive mixed reviews; some are praised for their attentiveness, while others are criticized for slow service, appearing overwhelmed, or lacking proper training. Housekeeping service also varies, with some guests noting thorough cleaning and others reporting missed services or issues with amenities not being replenished.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel, while featuring renovated common areas, is often described as an older property, with some rooms and facilities showing signs of age and needing refurbishment. The presence of an amusement park adjacent to the hotel is a unique feature, but it can contribute to noise disturbances, particularly for rooms facing that direction. Some guests express disappointment when certain amenities, such as the rooftop pool, are closed outside of their peak season, limiting access to advertised features. Issues with non-refundable bookings and difficulties in modifying stay dates have also been reported by some guests, leading to frustration.