Pamplona's Hidden Gem: Hotel Maisonnave - Unforgettable Stay!
Pamplona's Hidden Gem: Hotel Maisonnave - Unforgettable Stay! - My Messy, Honest Review
Okay, so let's talk Pamplona. Forget the running of the bulls (though, yes, Hotel Maisonnave is well-positioned for that… if you're into it, which, honestly, I'm more of a "watch it on TV with a good Spanish wine" kind of person). I just got back from Hotel Maisonnave, and I gotta tell you, it's less about the bulls and more about… well, everything else. This place is a total hidden gem, and I'm here to spill the (deliciously caffeinated) tea.
First Impressions (and a little panic):
Landing in Pamplona, I felt the usual pre-vacation jitters (did I pack enough snacks? Did I actually print my boarding pass?). Finding the Maisonnave was surprisingly easy. It's smack-dab in the city center, easy to find and get to. They even had this smooth, efficient airport transfer service – totally took the stress out of arrival. Whew. That's a plus when you’re dealing with baggage and a post-flight fog. The exterior is classic, elegant, but not the stuffy kind. It's… approachable. And that sets a good tone, trust me.
Accessibility and Peace of Mind (the important stuff):
Listen, I’m not personally in a wheelchair, but I always pay attention to accessibility. The Maisonnave scores BIG here. Wheelchair accessible? YES! This is a huge deal. The lobby is spacious, the elevators are roomy, and corridors are wide. Plus, they've got facilities for disabled guests that are actually thoughtful, not just an afterthought cobbled together. This place takes it seriously, and that's HUGE. The elevator is also a big thing, and it worked perfectly for me. I also appreciated the commitment to cleanliness and safety. With everything going on in the world, knowing the hotel takes hygiene seriously is a MUST. Think: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere (bless!), Rooms sanitized between stays. They even offer a room sanitization opt-out available - which is pretty cool if you're extra sensitive. They train their Staff trained in safety protocol which shows they care.
Rooms: My Little Sanctuary (and a Minor Drama):
My room… oh, my room. I'm a sucker for a good hotel room, and the Maisonnave DELIVERED. Clean, light-filled, and with, like, everything you could want. Let's tick the boxes: Air conditioning (essential!), Alarm clock (thank goodness!), Bathrobes (yes!), Bathroom phone (fancy!), Bathtub (bliss!), Blackout curtains (sleep like a baby!), Coffee/tea maker (vital!), Free bottled water (always appreciated!), Hair dryer (duh!), Mini bar (tempting!), In-room safe box (security!), Slippers (luxury!), Wi-Fi [free] (the holy grail!). And the Internet access – wireless was strong and stable. I just had to do a quick work-related check-up, but the strong wireless allowed me to. They even had a reading light, which, as someone who likes to read until late, is a godsend.
Now, a tiny drama. I had requested a high floor, and initially, I was placed on the… well, not high floor. I was a little bummed. I went back to the reception and was politely informed that they just couldn't at that time, due to maintenance work. Annoying, right? But then I went down like 30 minutes later (I went to sit at the bar), and the staff said they have a solution and made it happened! They genuinely cared and took the time to make things right. Seriously, first-class service. It was small, but it showed how much they genuinely cared about their guests.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Journey for the Taste Buds (and My Waistline):
Okay, where do I even start with the food? The Maisonnave's food game is STRONG. The Breakfast [buffet] was amazing. A complete spread with everything – Western breakfast staples, Asian breakfast options, fresh fruit, pastries, Coffee/tea in restaurant, the works. I’m talking A la carte in restaurant. Alternative meal arrangement was possible, which is good. There’s a Coffee shop, a Snack bar, and Restaurants. And a Poolside bar for cocktails, obviously! I was very sad I couldnt get a happy hour.
I'm a sucker for a good paella, and the restaurant had it—divine. Beyond the food, it just felt… comfortable. The service was impeccable, the ambiance was lovely. If you're craving a specific cuisine, the International cuisine in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant is available! The food was safe, the Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, the Daily disinfection in common areas - these shows that they cared.
Things To Do, Ways to Relax (My Personal Zen Corner):
Listen, I'm a notorious stress-head. So, a hotel with relaxation options is critical. The Maisonnave delivers. And it was everything I needed.
- Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool: Yes, yes, and HELL YES. The pool with view was absolutely gorgeous – and the Swimming pool [outdoor] was a delight, and the jacuzzi after a long day of walking around made me feel like I was in heaven. I didn’t get to try the Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage or the Spa but the spa seemed super luxurious!
I also appreciate the Fitness center - I never got to the gym, but just knowing it's there makes me feel less guilty about the dessert.
Services and Conveniences: Like They Read My Mind:
Beyond the basics, the Maisonnave goes above and beyond. Concierge service for anything and everything you could possibly need. Cash withdrawal at the hotel, just super useful. Daily housekeeping (my room was spotless every day). Laundry service (thank God, because I don’t like to pack). Parking (free!). They also have Facilities for disabled guests. The front desk [24-hour] means they are always there to help, which is important if you are like me.
For the Kids (and the Inner Child in All of Us):
While I didn't travel with kids, this place is Family/child friendly. They have Babysitting service!
My Final Verdict?
Hotel Maisonnave is a total WIN. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s an experience. It's all about quality, service, comfort, and a genuine commitment to making your stay special. It's Cleanliness and safety is a plus.
The Minor Mishaps (and Why They Don't Diminish the Shine):
No place is perfect. One morning, the Wi-Fi was a little spotty in the bar, but it was resolved in a matter of minutes. And as I mentioned, the room mix-up was minor and was quickly fixed. These tiny imperfections are honestly part of the charm. They remind you that you're in a real place, run by real people who genuinely care.
What Could Be Improved (If I Had to nitpick):
More Happy hour options! Some desserts in restaurant could be added!
Final, Unfiltered, Stream of Consciousness Thoughts?
Go. Book it. Right now. You deserve it. This place is a perfect location with the city center, and is absolutely in a great spot. You CAN'T GO wrong!
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Tired of Ordinary Hotels? Crave an Unforgettable Pamplona Experience?
Discover the hidden gem of Pamplona: Hotel Maisonnave! Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in luxury, comfort, and unparalleled service. Located in the heart of Pamplona, Hotel Maisonnave provides:
- Unrivaled Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive experience for all.
- Safety First: Relax with confidence knowing we prioritize your well-being with comprehensive Cleanliness and safety measures, including Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays.
- Culinary Delights: Indulge your taste buds with a diverse range of dining options, from a sumptuous Breakfast [buffet] to exquisite International cuisine in restaurant, with alternative meal arrangement possible. Enjoy our Poolside bar.
- Pure Relaxation: Rejuvenate your senses at our Spa, Swimming pool, or unwind in our Sauna, Steamroom.
- Seamless Convenience: Enjoy amenities like free Internet access – wireless, Air conditioning in public area, 24-hour Front Desk.
Book Your Stay at Hotel Maisonnave Now and Experience:
- Exceptional Service: Our dedicated staff is committed to providing an unforgettable experience.
- Prime Location: Explore Pamplona's vibrant city center, with easy access to attractions, shopping, and dining
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because this isn't your run-of-the-mill, perfectly-planned itinerary. This is real life, Pamplona-edition. And let me tell you, after a six-hour flight delay and a lost suitcase, this is going to be a whirlwind. We're staying at Hotel Maisonnave, which looks lovely in the pictures. Let's see how it holds up to the actual chaos.
Pamplona Pandemonium: A Totally Unreliable Itinerary (and Probably a Few Tears)
Day 1: Arrival and the "Lost Luggage Lament" (with a side of existential dread)
- Morning (or what was supposed to be): Arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO). Remember that whole "connect in Amsterdam" thing? Yeah, well, "connect" became "held hostage by a rogue airline and a broken coffee machine". Finally, finally, we land. And guess what? My suitcase? MIA. Vanished. Poof. Gone. Honestly, I almost lost it right there in the airport. Started questioning the meaning of life, my packing choices, and whether this whole "travel" thing was a colossal mistake.
- Afternoon: The blessed train to Pamplona. Scenery? Beautiful, probably. But I was mostly staring at the luggage carousel images on my phone and frantically refreshing the airline website. Arriving at Hotel Maisonnave – it looks pretty good, actually, a little less "polished" than the pictures, but honestly, comfort is all I'm seeking at this point after being stuck in the same outfit for 24 hours. The staff are surprisingly cheerful and sympathetic about the luggage (bless their hearts). Check-in, collapse on the bed, try and fail to remember I'm on vacation.
- Evening: A desperate search for anything resembling clothes. Scrounging around the few toiletries I managed to cram in my carry-on. Found a tiny, travel-sized bottle of shampoo. Feel an overwhelming sense of relief. Venture out, feeling like a walking disaster, to find dinner. Found a little tapas bar, stumbled in, and ordered a mountain of food. Ate everything. Everything! Starting a love-hate relationship with Spanish chorizo. It's spicy. My mood lightens. The wine definitely helps. Stumble back to the hotel, feeling slightly less hopeless.
Day 2: Pamplona's Pretty, and the Bull Run Dream
- Morning: Wake up, slightly hungover, but feeling better. The sun is streaming into the room, and, look, beautiful! The hotel room is pretty dang comfortable, after all. And there in front of me, the glorious vista of Pamplona! Decide to be brave and walk around. Breakfast downstairs. A simple affair, not the fanciest, but the pain is gone. Explore the Plaza del Castillo. Wow! Just a wow. The scale, the architecture, the sheer vibrancy of it all! That sense of "this is why I travel".
- Afternoon: The real reason for the trip: a semi-serious conversation with myself: "Would I do the running of the bulls?" Probably not. The thought of being trampled by a herd of angry bovines is incredibly unappealing. Still, the idea is thrilling, and the thought of being in the middle of it all makes this trip feel like a real adventure. I want to do it (a little), I can't.
- Evening: Find a restaurant (a proper one!) with a faboulous terrace that overlooks the square. It's the best spot for enjoying the energy of the town. Order far too much food. And the wine? Delicious! Seriously, I could happily live off Spanish red wine for the rest of my life. More stumbling back to the hotel. Sleep.
Day 3: The "Lost Luggage Recovery" (maybe?!) and the Sanfermines Buzz
- Morning: Wake up with a sliver of hope. Check the airline website. Nada. Nothing. Still, the hotel staff is incredibly helpful; they're going to call the airline and try and find the suitcase. Do some more exploring, wander through the side streets, and get lost (on purpose!).
- Afternoon: Oh, the joy! I had dinner in a lovely restaurant. The food was delicious. Found a shop selling esparto sandals and bought a pair. Feeling stylish (again!).
- Evening: Dinner and drinks. I want to celebrate life, the trip, everything. A lot of wine and the feeling of belonging to the city.
Day 4: Departure (and the Hope of a Future Suitcase Reunion)
- Morning: Last breakfast. This time with a heavy heart. The hotel is lovely, but it's time to go. It's always sad to leave somewhere you've come to love. Pack my "new" makeshift wardrobe (still no suitcase!). Check out. Say goodbye to the friendly staff. Promise myself (again) never to overpack again.
- Afternoon: Train back to Bilbao, waiting for the flight feels like an eternity. Hopefully, my suitcase has finally found its way back to me. I don't even care what's in it anymore. Just the principle of the thing.
- Evening: Flight home (fingers crossed!). Thinking about the trip. The beauty of the city, the people, the food -- the wine, and the memories. But the biggest thing to remember? My suitcase is still out there. I am pretty sure it will be the start of a never-ending story.
Important Notes:
- Flexibility is Key: Expect the unexpected. This itinerary is more of a suggestion at this point.
- Embrace the Mess: Sometimes, the best travel moments are the ones not on the schedule.
- Don't Forget to Breathe: And drink plenty of Spanish wine. Trust me. It helps.
- Luggage Updates: Will keep you posted on the suitcase situation. Wish me luck. I'm going to need it.
Okay, Let's Talk Maisonnave: Your Pamplona Inquisition (Before You Actually Go)
Is Hotel Maisonnave REALLY as good as everyone says? (Because, you know, Instagram lies.)
Alright, alright, let's get real. Instagram is a highlight reel, I know. And yes, Maisonnave? It *largely* lives up to the hype. But let's not pretend it’s flawless. It's more like, a charming, slightly creaky, utterly-Pamplona experience. Think less "luxury resort," more "elegant, slightly-faded-glory, family-owned-feeling hotel." The lobby? Gorgeous, that classic Spanish architecture that makes you feel like you've stepped into a romantic novel. The rooms? Mostly lovely, BUT (and this is a big but), ask about the noise. My first night, I swear, there was a flamenco dance-off happening *inside* the walls. Turns out, it was just the pipes. Seriously, earplugs are your friend, but that's Pamplona baby.
Okay, so what's the *real* vibe of the place? Is it stuffy?
Stuffy? No. Formal? Kinda. Look, the staff are SUPER helpful, and speak English brilliantly. BUT, you're in Spain. Be respectful, and you'll be fine. Dress code? Smart casual is the norm. But honestly, I saw everything from jeans to dresses. The key is to feel comfortable, but you *are* in a hotel that appreciates a certain level of… well, grace, shall we say? Picture it: me, trying to navigate the breakfast buffet with my sleep-mussed hair and a rogue chorizo stain on my shirt. I probably blended in, but I felt a *little* out of my depth.
The location! How's the location? Is it right in the middle of all the action? (Running of the Bulls, anyone?)
Dude, the location is GOLD. Absolute freaking gold. It’s practically *in* the Plaza del Castillo, the heart of everything. Walk out the door, and you're immediately surrounded by tapas bars, shops, and the general buzz of Pamplona. Forget about taxis or struggling with maps – you're IN IT. During San Fermín? Well, you're not *in* the bull run (thank GOD), but you’re close enough to feel the pulse of the city. Be warned though. Your sleep will be compromised. And I mean *compromised*. Even with earplugs this city does not sleep.
Tell me about the food! Is the breakfast buffet worth it? (I'm a breakfast person!)
Okay, the breakfast. LET'S TALK ABOUT THE BREAKFAST. It's... good. Not life-altering, but good. There's the usual continental stuff: pastries, fruit, yogurt. And, crucially, there's the Spanish stuff! Serrano ham, chorizo, Manchego cheese, all the deliciousness you expect. The coffee? Pretty decent, which is crucial. The one thing that got me? The service. The staff is attentive, polite, and always ready to refill your coffee, BUT... they had to shout across the lobby to reach me once because I was so engrossed in my newspaper. A bit embarrassing. But the food? Yum. Totally fueling my Pamplona adventures.
What about the rooms, specifically? Are they all created equal?
Nope. Not at all. I can't stress this enough: ask for a room away from the street. I had a room with a lovely view of... well, it was a distant view of the plaza but it was *noisy*. Think construction (that started at 7 AM – ouch), delivery trucks, and the general cacophony of Pamplona's nightlife *until* about 4 AM. Other rooms have a better view, are larger, or, yes, are considerably quieter. My advice? Read reviews. Specifically, read all the ones about noise. And then, when you book, contact the hotel directly and plead for a quiet room. Seriously, beg. It made SUCH a difference when I moved rooms. Huge.
Is there a bar? And more importantly, is the bar *good*?
Oh yes, there is a bar. The bar is called the "El Bar," because, you know, Spanish. It's... adequate. It's a very old-fashioned bar... in that it's a quiet corner. No loud music. It has the standard selection of drinks. The staff is nice, but it’s not the sort of place you go to *have* a night. However, it's Perfect for a quiet before-dinner drink, or a nightcap before you brave your noisy room. Get a Gin Tonic. All will be well.
Okay, the *real* question: Would you stay there again?
Honestly? Yes. Despite the noise (which is mostly just Pamplona being Pamplona), the quirks, and the slightly-faded glamour, I'd go back in a heartbeat. The location is unbeatable. The staff are generally lovely. And there's a certain *something* about Maisonnave that makes it both memorable and endearing. It's got that old-world charm, that feeling of history that only a well-loved, slightly-imperfect hotel can have. It's not perfect, and sometimes it's incredibly frustrating. But... it's *Pamplona*. And for Pamplona, it's pretty darn perfect.
