Winter Escapes in Spain

As the dreary winter months creep closer, the idea of a sunny escape becomes that much more appealing. Instead of taking the obvious vacation to Florida or Hawaii this year, how about traveling to the land of Picasso and Penélope Cruz? Spain has more to offer than most places you could visit, and whether you’re after somewhere to park your ass with a stack of books or see a place in its entirety from behind the wheel of a rental car, here are some of the finest hotels you can stay if you’re heading anywhere between Gijón and Gibraltar.

El Palauet, Barcelona

The Catalonian capital is one of the most famous cities in the world, and prompts eye-rolling in just about anyone with a friend who visits, when they return home claiming their new favorite city is “Bah-theh-low-nah.” But just ignore this and treat yourself to a few days of R&R at El Palauet.

Housed within an art nouveau building constructed in 1906, El Palauet features a rooftop spa that overlooks the vast city, and each suite is assigned its own personal assistant, so that you can take the brainwork out of your trip and hand the reins over to a local who knows the mean streets and can happily set you on your way, no matter what you’re after.

Rooms start at around $600 per night. elpaulet.com

Belmond La Residencia, Mallorca

For the ultimate middle finger to the outside world, turn your cell phone off and travel to an island. There are several to choose from, but Mallorca is undisputedly one of the lushest spots to let your winter woes melt away.

It’s reported that the nightstands at Belmond La Residencia don’t have adjacent power outlets, so you can’t charge your phone next to your bed (in other words, let the damn thing go dead and get some sleep). If this is the kind of vibe you’re seeking, then look no further. This place is more like a small village than a hotel, with just about every amenity you can imagine (including daily treats delivered to your room, which you may not be inclined to leave). Get one of the staff to give you a tour when you arrive, because it’s that kind of place.

Rooms start at around $500 per night. belmond.com

Hotel Londres Y De Inglaterra, San Sebastian

A visit to Basque Country will blow you away with its beauty any time of the year. While the weather can be temperamental, one look at the spectacular coastline backed by mountains and it’s easy to forgive an afternoon shower. Plus, you can always hit a café and drink large amounts of wine like Jake in Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises.

Hotel Londres puts its best foot forward not trying to be anything more than old-school luxury in one of the most stunning settings imaginable, smack-dab on San Sebastian beach, where Europeans go to escape the more popular vacation destinations. Eschew fancy spa treatments, kick off your shoes, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, matched only by the unparalleled service.

Rooms start at around $160 per night. hlondres.com