Hotel Arrizul Urumea

In a city that draws more than its share of tourists, the Hotel Arrizul Urumea is a reliably simple option that fits the bill for travelers who will be out and about. The basics are covered, but keep in mind that it's a bit of a hike to the Old Town. It's a modern place, and the large lobby lounge includes a flat-screen TV and several sofas and armchairs in neutral colors with pops of orange to brighten up the otherwise dark room. The overall look is nothing sleek, but a good step up from what might be found in a hostel or other budget lodgings. The hotel doesn’t cater to any one type of guest and is as suitable for business travelers as it is for families or couples. Since there are no real amenities at the hotel, there is no social scene to speak of, and most guests spend the majority of their time elsewhere.

Hotel Arrizul Urumea sits at the edge of the Urumea River, which winds its way through San Sebastian like a snake before reaching an outlet to sea near La Concha Beach. The hotel is therefore separated from the city center by the water, but accessible by several pedestrian-friendly bridges. It’s possible to enjoy some activities along the river itself, and the hotel offers bike and canoe rentals, but otherwise there isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of the hotel other than basic conveniences. San Sebastian’s main attractions are the beaches, the award-winning Basque pintxos restaurants in the Old Town, and the view from a hike to the top of Mount Urgull, which are all about a 10- to 15-minute drive or 20- to 25-minute bus ride away. Although not within reasonable walking distance, the terrain and neighborhoods between the hotel and Old Town are safe and pleasant and some guests do make a stroll of it. Train and bus stations are about 10 minutes away on foot. San Sebastian’s airport is 20 minutes away by car and flights connect with other major domestic cities. Bilbao is the closest international airport, and is 70 minutes away by car. 

Rooms at the hotel are minimalist, modern, and small, with just enough room for the bed and desk and little room to navigate around them. The walls and linens are white, and the fixtures feel a bit institutional-looking. Gray headboards and desk chairs are contrasted by some orange pillows that help to break up the monotony, and there's a bit of color in the abstract wall art. The furnishings are exceptionally clean, and overall the rooms feel fresh. All rooms have a desk, a closet, safe, small flat-screen TV mounted to the wall, and a mini-fridge that comes with a couple of bottles of water. Bathrooms are en-suite and basic, with stall showers, limited toiletries, and hairdryers. Wi-Fi is free in rooms, but it can be spotty. 

As a budget hotel, the Arrizul Urumea doesn’t have a lot in the way of special features for guests. There is a breakfast buffet that can be included in room rates at booking, and it’s a pretty substantial spread that includes pastries, cereals, meats and cheese, fruit, juices and coffee/tea. The breakfast room is not a restaurant, but it’s open throughout the day, so guests can bring their own food to eat there if they prefer not to eat in their own rooms. Private parking in the underground garage can also be added to room rates. Because of the proximity to the river, the hotel offers bike and canoe rentals to guests who are interested in exploring along the river. One other unusual perk is a shower that's available for guests who have already checked out of their rooms but want to enjoy the beach or other outdoor activities before they leave. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, but while it’s strong in the hotel’s public areas the connection in rooms can be spotty.