Hotel San Millán

The hotel stands out as a pet-friendly haven, offering a unique blend of comfort and convenience, particularly for travelers with furry companions or those seeking a stopover near the ferry port. Its comprehensive gym and spa facilities are a significant draw, providing opportunities for relaxation and exercise. Guests consistently highlight the spacious rooms and the friendly, helpful staff as key aspects of their stay. The hotel is an excellent fit for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago looking for a restorative break, ferry travelers seeking a convenient and comfortable stop, and pet owners who appreciate dedicated amenities. To enhance your experience, it is advisable to confirm dining hours, especially on weekends, and to inquire about room location if sensitive to noise from the gym.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest stays. A notable feature is the spacious and free parking, which is highly appreciated by guests traveling by car. The hotel also boasts a well-equipped gym spanning two floors, providing ample opportunities for workouts, with many guests praising the variety of equipment available. While the spa is available for an additional fee, it offers a pool with hydromassage jets and a sauna, though some guests noted the pool water could be cool. Free Wi-Fi is available, ensuring guests can stay connected. Some guests mentioned the convenience of ice machines and vending machines. However, a few reviews indicated that some gym equipment might be out of order, and the elevator can be old or jumpy.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and spacious, often highlighting the comfortable beds and large bathrooms. However, feedback on room comfort is mixed, with some guests reporting that beds can be uncomfortable or sinking in the middle, and that old shower curtains are present in some bathrooms. Noise is a recurring concern, particularly noise from the gym which operates until late, and noise from corridors due to poor soundproofing. Some rooms are described as old or tired, with issues like cracked bathroom ceilings or worn wallpaper. The lack of air conditioning is a significant drawback during warmer periods, leading to hot rooms, and some guests noted issues with heating not functioning or being difficult to control. Basic amenities like a kettle or hairdryer are not consistently available in rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on the hotel's dining options is varied, with many guests praising the excellent food quality in the restaurant, particularly for dinner, which is often described as good value. The buffet breakfast receives positive comments for its variety and quality, including hot options, though some found it expensive. However, a significant recurring issue is the limited restaurant and cafe operating hours, especially on weekends, when the restaurant is often closed for dinner, leaving guests with few on-site food options. Some guests noted delays in drink service during busy periods. The cafe is appreciated for its coffee and basic snacks, but some found the snack selection limited or overpriced.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, especially for ferry crossings and as a stopover point, being a short drive from the port. It offers easy access to major motorways, making it suitable for travelers continuing their journeys. The availability of free, spacious parking is a major advantage. While not within walking distance of the city center, guests appreciate its proximity to Santander (a 10-15 minute drive) and attractions like Cabárceno Natural Park. Public transport, such as a bus line into the city, is available nearby. Some guests noted the area is generally quiet, though a few found the immediate surroundings lacking in dining options within walking distance.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the excellent service provided by reception staff, who are described as very accommodating and willing to go the extra mile to assist with requests, including speaking English to aid international guests. The check-in process is generally smooth, though some guests experienced delays. Housekeeping staff are also commended for their cheerful greetings and maintaining clean rooms. The overall impression is that the staff are a significant asset, contributing positively to the guest experience and making visitors feel welcome, especially with pet-friendly service.

Additional Information
The hotel has a notable pet-friendly policy, welcoming dogs and even providing personal beds and food bowls for them, though a deposit and an additional fee are typically required. Guests should be aware that access to the spa and its pool is not included in the room rate and incurs an extra charge, often requiring guests to purchase swim caps and flip-flops. While the gym is generally included, some guests noted that certain rewards program benefits might not be fully recognized. The hotel's traditional approach includes a key system where guests often leave their room keys at reception. Some guests found the hotel's overall decor to be dated or tired, suggesting it could benefit from updates. Additionally, a few travelers noted the absence of a laundry service or ironing facilities, which could be a consideration for longer stays.