Charm oozes at this fabulous, small hotel in the heart of the ancient Albaicin dating back to the 16th century. A beautiful wooden gallery with interior patio around which the rooms are situated.

With just 11 rooms this small, friendly hotel is family run and feels homely. There is a comfortable lounge, with refreshments always available, to collapse in before heading out to explore the maze of narrow streets in this emblematic part of Granada again.

No dinner is served but there is an abundance of choice nearby, some with stunning views of the Alhambra Palace or walk down to the River Darro with plenty more choice.

Rooms aren’t particularly large, but well planned and decor in keeping with the gorgeous building. If you can go for the tower room with stunning views of the Alhambra. For a few nights to explore Granada and the Albaicin this is a great location, but not if you plan to explore further afield as the access is interesting and you would waste a lot of time getting to the (paid) parking almost next door.

Altogether a lovely, welcoming and historical stay in my favourite part of Granada. Would I go again? Yes, and definitely in the tower room.

Yes, that is snow behind the Alhambra, the Sierra Nevada with its winter coat on. A great time to go as it wasn’t crowded.

Visit Santa Isabel la Real website.