Corral del Rey

Corral del Rey is a small luxury boutique hotel hidden among the narrow cobbled streets of the Alfalfa quarter, about five minutes' walk from the Cathedral. It occupies a 17th-century casa palacio that was meticulously restored and converted into a private hotel of just 17 individually decorated rooms, and it belongs to the Aluz Collection, which also includes the Hacienda de San Rafael in the countryside south of Seville.

The house keeps its historic character. An atrium patio with Roman marble columns is the heart of the building, the floors are laid with Tarifa stone, and original carved wooden details survive throughout. Rooms have marble and limestone bathrooms with walk-in rain showers, and the overall style mixes traditional Andalusian craftsmanship with calm, modern comfort and a fine art collection. The hotel also has additional living rooms in a building across the street.

The rooftop terrace is a highlight, with a plunge pool and an extended mirador looking towards the Cathedral and the Giralda, which is especially lovely in the early evening. Downstairs, the bar and dining room under an original wooden ceiling serve an all-day tapas menu, so you can eat in when you do not feel like going out.

Note that although the experience is in the luxury bracket, the hotel's official category is three stars, which reflects the size of the building rather than the level of comfort and service. It suits couples and travellers who value privacy, character and personal service over large hotel facilities such as a gym or a full-size pool. With so few rooms it books up quickly in spring and during Holy Week and the April Fair, so reserve well ahead. Cars cannot reach the door easily in these narrow lanes, so ask the hotel for arrival advice.

The Alfalfa is one of the most enjoyable parts of the old town to stay in, with tapas bars and small squares all around and a lively local feel. From the hotel you can walk to the Cathedral and the Alcázar in about five to ten minutes, to Casa de Pilatos and the Museo del Baile Flamenco in a few minutes, and to Las Setas in about ten.