A thoughtfully restored 18th-century Andalusian palace with an impressive history and a dining menu created by Michelin-starred chef José Carlos Garcia, the Palacio Solecio isn’t just a great place to stay; it’s a Málaga attraction in its own right. The latest property by Marugal (the geniuses behind Cap Rocat, a Mallorcan OutThere favourite), the hotel was once the residence of Genoese industrialist Félix Solesio, who used large parts of the building to store – wait for it – playing cards.
Perhaps in a nod to this, the Antonio Obrador-designed Palacio tempts with playful touches throughout, including the sun engravings on its facade, a tribute to Solesio’s coat of arms, and Arabic-style decorations that lend the hotel its quintessentially Andalusian charm. Our oak-panelled suite, meanwhile, was contemporary, extremely spacious and facing the beautiful patio – which is preferable to being within earshot of Málaga’s noisy streets.
Speaking of which, the city’s biggest tourist draws are all virtually around the corner: from the 11th-century Alcazaba and the Museo Picasso to Antonio Banderas’ penthouse flat (he wasn’t home, we knocked). Should the Spanish heat get to you, the hotel is planning to refurbish and open up a neighbouring building, crowned with a private rooftop pool, in the not-so-distant future. You heard it here first.
| Perfect for | Fly into | Right on time |
| The Culturalist | AGP | GMT +1 |
| While you’re Out There |
| The flamenco-show-meets-dining-experience at nearby Cal y Canto is a must – though don’t sit in the front row if you don’t enjoy bracelets flying your way during the passionate performance. We learned the hard way. |
Photography courtesy of Marugal Distinctive Hotel Management
