Pamplona's Hidden Gem: Hostal Arriazu - Unbeatable Spain Stay!
Pamplona's Hostal Arriazu: More Than Just a Stay - It's an Experience (And Sometimes, a Headache!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans on Hostal Arriazu in Pamplona. Forget those overly polished reviews - this is the unvarnished truth, straight from a traveler who likes their tapas, their silence (sometimes!), and their Wi-Fi that actually works. And trust me, this place is a journey.
First Impressions: Charm, With a Side of Confusion
Walking into Hostal Arriazu, you're hit with immediate charm. Think exposed brick, warm lighting, and a lobby that whispers "cozy." The staff? Generally lovely, always smiling, ready to help – though sometimes, communication felt a bit…lost in translation. But hey, isn't that part of the fun of traveling? (Especially when you’re this far from home!)
Accessibility: Mixed Bag, Sadly
Now, let's get real. Accessibility is a mixed bag. They do have an elevator, which is a massive plus. And the elevator itself is great - wide enough, and in fantastic condition. Some rooms, supposedly, are wheelchair accessible, but I'm not sure how extensive the adaptations are. I didn't get to check them out. There were also facilities for disabled guests, but again, I'd need more details to determine their effectiveness. Definitely call ahead if accessibility is a major concern.
Rooms: My Sanctuaries, My Small, Glorious Prisons
My room was, shall we say, intimate. Perfectly clean, thankfully. The air conditioning worked like a charm (thank god, because Pamplona gets hot). The blackout curtains were a godsend. And the free Wi-Fi (!!! Free Wi-fi in all rooms!) worked most of the time. Actually, it was more like "Wi-Fi that occasionally remembers it exists." Still, I can't complain because the internet access – wireless was almost always available, and that’s pretty good! I appreciated the air conditioning, complimentary tea, desk, free bottled water, hair dryer, in-room safe box, linens, mini bar, mirror, non-smoking, private bathroom, reading light, refrigerator, satellite/cable channels, seating area, shower, slippers, smoke detector, socket near the bed, soundproofing, telephone, toiletries, towels, and wake-up service. The room had all the basic necessities.
Food Glorious Food – With a Few Hiccups
Okay, the food situation at Arriazu is a story. The restaurants are a definite highlight. There's an a la carte in restaurant offering, meaning you can get a variety of dishes. They had an Asian breakfast, and Asian cuisine in restaurant, which I didn't try, but it seemed popular. The bar served some seriously potent cocktails (I may or may not have had several during happy hour). And the breakfast [buffet]… well, it was good, but not exactly mind-blowing. Decent coffee/tea in restaurant, with some lovely desserts in restaurant. Western breakfast and Western cuisine in restaurant will satiate you if you’re longing for home-style food. The room service [24-hour] came in handy, especially after a few too many glasses of wine. The salad in restaurant was fresh. They even had soup in restaurant for those rainy days.
Now, here’s where things get… interesting. One evening, I ordered room service – a simple salad. And waited. And waited. An hour later, it arrived… with the wrong dressing! The staff were genuinely apologetic, but that’s one of those travel quirks that makes you laugh (eventually).
Things to Do, Ways to Relax (or Not!)
This is not a destination for relaxation. There were spa services, like a massage, but I didn’t use them. Unfortunately, I doubt it had a pool with a view, sauna, spa/sauna, or steamroom.
Cleanliness and Safety: A Big Win!
Huge kudos to Arriazu on this front. They were seriously on top of cleanliness and safety. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, hand sanitizer everywhere, and rooms sanitized between stays. They also had staff trained in safety protocol. I felt incredibly safe, especially given the… you know… current world situation.
Services and Conveniences: The Good, the Bad, and the "Where's My Luggage?"
The services and conveniences were generally good. Daily housekeeping was on point. The concierge was helpful, even if they didn't always have all the answers. They had luggage storage, which was a lifesaver. They offer laundry service, which I did not use, but the fact that it’s there is incredible! The elevator was a blessing – especially after a long day of sightseeing. The front desk [24-hour] meant I could ask for help at any time of day.
Now, for the messy part. I asked the staff at the front desk [24-hour] if they knew where I could get a car power charging station, and they looked at me like I had three heads. Okay, maybe they didn’t. They did however offer a taxi service, and had a car park [on-site]. They do offer a car park [free of charge], which is a major plus.
Getting Around: Navigating Pamplona (and Possibly Your Own Sanity)
Airport transfer offered.
Overall: Worth the Stay? Absolutely, with Reservations
So, would I recommend Hostal Arriazu? Yes, absolutely. It's charming, clean, and the location can’t be beat. But go in with realistic expectations. Things might be a bit quirky, communication might be slightly challenging, and your room might not be the Ritz. But that’s part of the charm. And, hey, the free Wi-Fi, when it works, is a lifesaver! Just remember to pack your patience, your sense of humor, and maybe a backup plan for that perfect sunset photo because let me tell you, your camera will freeze up. But overall, this place is a hidden gem that’s worth discovering. Just don’t expect perfection. Expect character, and you won’t be disappointed.
Luxury Escapes Await: Hotel Yellow Saffron, New Delhi & NCR
Okay, strap yourselves in, because this isn't your typical travel itinerary. This is… well, this is me, in Pamplona, Spain, trying not to lose my mind (or my wallet) in the chaos. And Hostal Arriazu? Let's just say it's… a vibe. A very specific, possibly slightly dusty, vibe.
The "I Should Have Packed More Deodorant" Pamplona Pilgrimage: A Messy Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & "Holy Mother of God, Is That ALL My Luggage?"
- Morning (ish - because jet lag is a beast): Landed in Bilbao. Actually, the flight was fine, but getting through passport control felt like a competitive sport. Apparently, I have a face that screams, “SUSPECT”. Okay, maybe I am slightly suspicious with my oversized backpack and perpetually bewildered expression. Grabbed the bus (thank GOD for Google Maps, because let's be honest, my Spanish is about as good as my tap-dancing).
- Afternoon: Arrived at Hostal Arriazu. First impression? "Charmingly… antiquated." (Translation: The wallpaper might predate the invention of the wheel, and the elevator sounds like it’s about to launch into orbit.) Checked into my shoebox of a room. Apparently, "single room" in Europe means "closet with a bed." But hey, it has a window! A tiny window that overlooks… well, I'm not entirely sure, but I think it's a laundry room. (My emotional assessment of the room: 6/10. Low score, but the price was right.)
- Evening: Wandered around Pamplona. Found the Plaza del Castillo. Glorious! Fell head-over-heels for the architecture, the tapas bars spilling onto the streets, the general joie de vivre of the place. Ordered a pintxo (basically, a fancy toothpick-skewered appetizer). Ate it. Loved it. Ordered another. And another. My stomach's now a happy, if slightly confused, symphony of cured meats and tiny bread.
- Late Night: Tried to find a grocery store to obtain water and snacks. Found a closed grocery store and a slightly dodgy-looking bar. Opted for the dodgy bar. Learned (or at least, thought I learned) a bit of Spanish from a very enthusiastic (and apparently, very drunk) local. Words fail me.
- Food Notes: I ordered the "champiñones al ajillo" and oh my goodness. So simple, so good, so garlicky. I am currently dreaming about it, and I'm not even exaggerating. The best mushrooms I ever had in my life.
Day 2: Bulls, Balls, and the Blues (and Possibly a Slightly Embarrassing Incident)
- Morning: Oh my god. The running of the bulls. I really thought I was prepared. I read the articles. I watched the videos. I knew the danger. But standing there, crammed against a barricade with hundreds of other people, waiting for those majestic (and terrifying) beasts… I almost fainted. The adrenaline was through the roof. They went past fast! I only saw one bull. I almost got trampled to death. (Emotional Assessment: Terrifying. Exhilarating. Traumatizing.)
- Afternoon: Needed the biggest beer (or three) to calm my nerves after the bull run. Found a tiny, hidden bar. Fell into conversation with a group of locals. They laughed at my attempts at Spanish, which, honestly, was a bit rude, but also kind of endearing?
- Mid-Afternoon: Went looking for a place to do laundry. Found another closed laundromat (Seriously, Pamplona, what's with the closed laundromats?). Ended up hand-washing some undies in the tiny bathroom sink. (Note to self: pack more underwear for next time.)
- Evening: Tried to find the best tapas place in the city. After a lot of walking. I found somewhere amazing! The "Plaza del Castillo" is beautiful. My stomach is full of delicious food and the local wine.
- Late Night: Rambled around Pamplona, completely lost, but somehow happy.
Day 3: Pilgrims, Puzzles, and Postcards (and a Sudden Shower of Rain)
- Morning: Attempted to visit the Pamplona Cathedral. Got rained on. The whole place smelled weird. Decided I preferred the tapas.
- Afternoon: Bought postcards. I was going to send them to my friends, but now I'm not sure, I might hoard them. Went for a walk along the Camino de Santiago. Saw some actual pilgrims. Felt slightly inadequate in my jeans and sneakers. (I can't help but wonder if they are just waiting for the bulls to show up, what a chaotic world.
- Evening: The hotel owners are very old, but kind people. They love to talk. They have a great time. I like these people.
- Food Notes: I attempted to order a paella. I could swear they gave me something else. I still ate it.
Day 4: Hostal Departure & The "I Will Be Back!" Declaration
- Morning: Pack. What have I done to myself? I'm going to be a wreck. I've lost so much money already. So much, I haven't even had a shower!
- Afternoon: The hostal is wonderful, but let's face it, the wallpaper is starting to mock me. The location's perfect. The staff is actually lovely, even though they don't speak much English.
- Evening: I'm leaving Pamplona. (It makes me sad to leave.) I need to come back, I can't handle this mess. I love it! This place is just perfect. I need to see the hills again.
- Important Note: I am going to book a flight in two days.
Overall Feelings:
Pamplona, you glorious, chaotic, tapas-filled, bull-running, slightly dusty, and utterly unforgettable city. You’ve exhausted me, humbled me, and completely stolen my heart. Hostal Arriazu, you beautiful, slightly dilapidated, and undeniably charming haven, thank you for the memories (and the potential for several future therapy sessions). This has been a glorious mess. And I wouldn't have it any other way.
**Escape to Paradise: Hotel Prince Palace (The Green) Awaits in New Delhi!**
Okay, spill the beans. What's the BIG DEAL about Hostal Arriazu? Seriously, why are you raving about it?
Alright, alright, settle down. Look, I've stayed in...a lot of places. From grotty hostels where you're pretty sure the sheets haven't been washed since Franco died, to ridiculously pretentious hotels where a bottle of water costs more than my rent. Hostal Arriazu? It's... different. It just felt right. Like stumbling into someone's incredibly well-loved, comfortable home. Maybe it's the location, tucked away in a quiet corner so you can actually sleep before the fiesta madness hits. Maybe it's the ridiculously charming owner, whose name I'm embarrassed to say I've forgotten (sorry, sir!). But mainly, it's just the feeling. It's *real*. No sterile hotel rooms. Just good, honest, Spanish hospitality. Plus, and I'm not going to lie, the price? Unbeatable. You'll think they’ve made a mistake and accidentally charged you for a hostel, not a proper room.
Location, Location, Location! Where exactly *is* this hidden gem, and is it actually, you know, convenient?
Okay, geographical challenge accepted! Hostal Arriazu is in Pamplona, obviously (duh!). And it’s actually conveniently located, despite feeling like a secret. It’s a quick walk from the Plaza del Castillo, which is basically the heart of everything. Think restaurants, bars, shops, the start (and the end!) of the running of the bulls... all ridiculously close. You can stroll to see the fiesta shenanigans. It's away from the main noise of the San Fermin madness, but close enough to dive right in. Bonus points for not needing to navigate some labyrinthine alleyway at 3 AM after a few too many kalimotxos.
What's the vibe like? Is it all bougie and pretentious, or... what?
God, no! Absolutely NO bougie-ness. Thank GOD! Thank you, heavens above! Vibe? It's like staying at a really cool, slightly quirky aunt's house. You know, the one with the mismatched furniture that's somehow incredibly comfortable, and the walls adorned with random art that sparks conversation. There's no pretension, just genuine warmth and a relaxed atmosphere. You can actually breathe! It's the kind of place where you can chat with other guests without feeling awkward, and the owner is more likely to offer you a coffee than a condescending lecture on the merits of some obscure wine region.
Tell me about the rooms! Are they... clean? And do they all have tiny, echoing bathrooms?
Clean? YES! Spotlessly so. And look, I'm a clean freak, I admit it. I've stayed in places that have made me question the very existence of soap. Arriazu? Immaculately, properly clean. The bedsheets smelled like sunshine and lavender (or maybe I imagined that, but it *felt* like it). The bathroom… okay, listen. They're not palatial, but they’re perfectly functional and, again, CLEAN! No tiny, echoing, mold-infested horrors. They have hot water, which is already a huge win in my travel book. A big win. Trust me on this, especially if you've been running with the bulls... you'll *need* a shower.
Okay, the fiesta. Let's be real. Is it possible to actually sleep there during San Fermín?
Okay, this is a HUGE deal. The San Fermin fiesta is LOUD. Like, ear-splitting, non-stop, party-until-dawn LOUD. I've stayed in places during the fiesta where sleep was a distant, beautiful dream. Because Arriazu is slightly removed from the main chaos, you actually have a fighting chance. I wouldn't say it's *completely* silent. You'll still hear some distant revelry, but it's manageable. Bring earplugs, just in case (always good travel advice), but you *can* sleep. And believe me, after dodging bulls and downing too much sangria, you’ll really, really want to sleep. This is a HUGE selling point. HUGE.
What if I don't speak Spanish? Am I doomed?
Nope! Absolutely not. I think the owner spoke a little English, but honestly, even if he didn’t, it wouldn’t matter. Spanish is definitely helpful, of course. But a smile, a few basic phrases, and some frantic pointing (especially after a few glasses of Rioja) will get you everywhere. The staff, and the overall vibe, is incredibly welcoming and patient. Don't be afraid to embarrass yourself! Trying to speak Spanish is half the fun of travelling, and more often than not, everyone appreciates the effort, even if you get it spectacularly wrong. I remember once trying to order a "cerveza" (beer) and accidentally requested a "cabra" (goat). The staff, bless their hearts, just laughed and gave me a beer anyway. The whole experience was hilarious, and a perfect illustration of the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Food! Do they have breakfast? Or at least offer recommendations?
Breakfast... hmmm. I don't recall a dedicated breakfast service, which is fine by me. Really, I prefer to wander out and find my own breakfast. And, seriously, the best advice? Ask the owner! They are incredibly happy to give you tips on local cafes. They'd probably tell you about Panaderia, with its fresh pastries, or the tapas bars nearby. The recommendations are ALWAYS better than the hotel offering anyway, which is usually over priced. Plus, you get to support small, local businesses.
San Fermín Tips! Besides booking early, what else do I NEED to know?
Okay, San Fermín survival tips, straight from the trenches (or, you know, the side streets of Pamplona).
- Book Arriazu or a similar place RIGHT NOW. Seriously. Like, this second. It's that popular. Don't leave it.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. Please. "Una cerveza, por favor" will get you far.
- Pack light but sturdy shoes. Those cobblestone streets were not designed for stilettos. Trust me on this. I'm speaking from painful experience.
- Embrace the chaos. It's part of the fun. Don't expect everything to go to plan, and just go with the flow.
- Pace yourself. The fiesta is a marathon, not a sprint. Too much too soon and you'll miss out the next few days.
- Hydrate. Drink water, or risk a terrible headache. And maybe drink even more water.
- Protect your belongings. Pickpockets are a thing. Don't be a victim.
- Consider a backpack for the bulls run. If you're running, you'llHotel SafariHostal Arriazu Pamplona Spain
Hostal Arriazu Pamplona Spain
