Malaga Hotel Picasso

Peaceful and pristine, the Malaga Hotel Picasso has a homey vibe that's undeniable from the moment a guest arrive. It’s set in a sprawling bungalow enclosed by white-brick fencing, with a portico-like entryway that opens onto something like a secret, secluded world of gardens and elegant lawn fixtures. This intimate feeling continues inside, as the cozy lobby is done in warm terra-cotta tiles, bright Picasso paintings, and antique furnishings. Adjacent to this area is the decadent library and TV lounge that feels like something out of an old movie. There’s a charming gramophone purchased atop a sleek oval side table, handsome walnut wood bookshelves with plenty of reading material for guests, and an antique piano, all surrounded by plenty of plush, colorful seating. The hotel is a solid bet for laid-back tourists and families -- a bit off the beaten path from downtown Malaga, yet still close enough to set up a temporary home base. It's also popular with those using the nearby airport.

About 10 minutes by foot from Guadalmar Beach, the Malaga Hotel Picasso is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood to the south of the Malaga city center. The property is surrounded by homes on a leafy, heavily tree-lined street, and there aren’t any shops or restaurants in the immediate vicinity. The Plaza Mayor shopping center, with trendy retailers, is approximately an eight-minute drive from the hotel. Malaga's town center is about 18 minutes away by car. The city is home to the iconic Alcazaba of Malaga, which is a Moorish fortress overlooking the sea that’s perched on Mount Gibralfaro. The Centre Pompidou Malaga is also located there. Malaga Airport is a 10-minute drive, while the Maria Zambrano railway station is 12 minutes away. 

The rooms here may be simple, but they have a charming side, too. For all of their Plain Jane details -- think basic tiled floors and upholstered armchairs -- there are elements that give the rooms Old-World character, like vintage wall sconces, classic hardwood furniture, and discreet shaded chandeliers that cast a pretty glow. All are equipped with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibars, desks, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. They can all sleep up to four people. Bathrooms are bright and colorful, with a Mediterranean influence coming through in saturated cobalt and yellow wall tiles -- it's not the most up-to-date look, but pleasant enough. Most are reasonably sized, though bathrooms in Single Rooms are cramped and have limited counter space. All rooms offer direct access to the hotel’s quaint gardens and pool.

There’s ample opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Malaga weather here. Shaded by palm trees, the outdoor pool is situated on the lawn directly outside the guest rooms. There’s also a hydromassage hot tub adjacent to a furnished patio, and plenty of outdoor seating on which to relax and soak up the sunshine. The generous breakfast buffet features both hot and cold options and is served in an intimate dining room overlooking the pool for a fee. If you’re spending time inside, the stylish lounge provides a little library space as well as a TV nook. Drinks can be purchased from reception. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and parking is complimentary. Bike rentals are also available for excursions to the beach or into town.