San Sebastian
Where We Stayed
We had just to nights in San Sebastian, and spent our first night in the heart of the city at the Maria Cristina, which is part of Marriott. We explored the city, beaches, and some incredible restaurants - all within a 10 minute walk. The Maria Cristina is a historical landmark right on the river; Queen María Cristina was the first to cross its threshold in 1912 and it retains is regal look and feel. For our second night, we took a 15 minute taxi ride south of the city to Akelarre: a destination hotel, spa, and three Michelin star restaurant. This incredible place is set on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and has some of the most beautiful rooms, architecture, and views I’ve ever seen.
Akelarre Hotel
How We Got There
We took at 4.5 hour train from Madrid right into the heart of the city. We walked 10 minutes from the train station to the Maria Cristina. For flight info on how we flew to Spain in business class on points, check out my Gran Canaria and Madrid posts.
What Points We Used
We used 60,000 Marriott points to book our night at the Maria Cristina. We used 70,000 AMEX points to book our night at Akelarre, earned through our AMEX Gold card.
For more info on how to use transfer partners and points, check our my Guide. For a referral link to any of the recommended cards, sent me an email at mpattonpardner@gmail.com.
Itinerary
San Sebastian (11/29-12/1)
11/29 8:43 - 13:37 Train Madrid Chamartin - San Sebastian/Donostia
Hotel Maria Cristina (Marriott) #71607328 (11/29 - 11/30)
Free Breakfast - Marriott Platinum
Walk from train station to hotel (9 minutes)
Walk through Old Town, Hike up Castillo de la Mota (Monte urgull)
Parque de Alderi Eder - La Concha Beach
Basque Wine - txakoli - sparkling white wine
Pintxos - Kata4, La Mejillonera, Gandarias, Bar Martinez, La Cuchara*
Bar Goiz-Argi, La Vina for cheesecake, Chutney Gastribar, Bergara
Hotel Akelarre (11/30 - 12/1)
15 minute taxi from San Sebastian
Free Breakfast
21:00 Dinner