Set in a beautifully restored 17th-century townhouse once home to Eugénie de Montijo, the hotel offers uniquely designed rooms. Once the home of Napoleon III’s wife, Hotel Claude in Marbella is a 17th-century townhouse, revamped and restyled to meld authentic period features with modern design pizzazz. Original elements such as the well and Moorish arches are complemented by huge purple banquettes, hanging glass lanterns and a shady roof terrace where you can sit to watch the world wander by on the winding streets below. Guests can use the nearby spa, pool and fitness centre. In rooms: flatscreen TV, DVD player, iPod dock. All rooms have king-size beds. OUR FAVOURITE ROOMS
Claude’s seven rooms are each uniquely styled – top of our to-book list is Francesca, the only room that looks out onto the old town’s main street. A large balcony and a huge floor-to-ceiling window keep it bright and airy, and the high, wood-beamed ceilings and decorative arch leading to the minimalist mosaic-fitted bathroom create a sense of spaciousness. Up in the eaves, Flammandes overlooks the roof terrace and has its own private stairwell leading up to a smart loft-style studio with glossy oak floors and a semi-open-plan bathroom. Listening to the church chime outside and looking out over the steeple, you feel like a princess in a tower. Savannah and North African-themed Marroquí are joined by a courtyard, making them ideal for families or friends travelling together.
