Palacio del Carmen in Santiago de Compostela: Hotel Review

Palacio del Carmen, Marriott, Santiago de Compostela:  Hotel Review

You would not believe my delight as I walked down the street on the way to the Marriot’s Palacio del Carmen in Santiago de Compostela.  The white patio umbrellas out front were the first clue that I was about to be spoilt.  After walking the Camino de Santiago, I had decided to treat myself to a little luxury – and the Marriott’s AC Palacio del Carmen was it!

I giggled all the way to the reception desk, backpack and walking poles as if I was still on the Camino, not walking into a 5 star hotel in such a historic city.  The men at the front desk welcomed me as if I was any other guest, not someone who had just walked 800kms to get there!  After checking me in, they were only too happy to oblige me in a few photos!

My room was brilliant – the king bed and assortment of pillows a real treat.  To make it even better, I had a view of the Cathedral from my bed!  (Cathedral views are in the rooms furthest from the elevator – I was in room 222 and loved it!)  I can not say for certain that every room gets this – perhaps membership has its privileges – as I opened the door to find a traditional Tarte de Santiago and bottle of mineral water waiting for me in the room!  (Having stayed at the Marriott for years through work, I had reached the Gold level in Marriott Rewards – it is free to join and I have benefitted from my membership on many occasions!  Membership has it’s privileges!  In this case – free WiFi and a room upgrade.)  The room was perfect – crisp white linens on the bed were the first clue to how comfortable my stay would be.  The bathroom was spacious with a full sized tub, slippers and a robe – all the comforts of home.

The Palacio del Carmen is part of the Marriott’s Autograph Collection.  The Autograph Hotel Collection was created to represent upper upscale and luxurious independent hotels which are located in dynamic gateway cities.  Each one is unique.  The architectural style of the old Oblatas Convent gives the Palacio del Carmen its unique charms and character.  The interior has been stylishly upgraded to give the utmost in comfort and tranquil surrounds.  Even with a wedding raging through the night in the banquets hall, my room was perfectly quiet – had I not seen the bride and her wedding party, I may never have known that they were there!

Slightly off the beaten track, the Palacio del Carmen was less than a 10 minute walk to the Cathedral de Santiago Plaza and restaurant district.  Everything is easily accessible on foot and the comforts of the hotel made the walk worth while!  Internet was a little slow at times and comes at an extra charge (complimentary with Gold level Marriott Rewards membership).  For those without a computer, complimentary internet access and a computer is available in the lobby.

Having very little in my bag, and lacking a swimsuit, I did not head to the sauna room, although it sounded exactly like what my body needed!  I also did not try the full breakfast buffet, opting only for the continental, although the assortment of cheeses, ham and fresh fruit looked quite appealing.

While I was beyond giddy when I first arrived at the hotel, the hotel front desk made me feel more than welcome upon arrival and throughout my stay.  They were more than helpful with any of my questions.  My stay at the Palacio del Carmen was a well earned treat….and the best thing…you don’t have to walk 800 kms to get there!

Useful information:

• Marriott Palacio del Carmen - at 90 Euro for the night, this 5 star hotel was a total bargain.  Check their site for up to date pricing and last minute specials.
• less than a 10 minute walk to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and plaza
• (approximately) 15 minute walk to Praza de Galicia (shopping district)
• (approximately) 20 minute walk to the train station (taxi with bags under 10 Euro)