Áurea Washington Irving

Áurea Washington Irving is a luxury hotel of 60 rooms at Paseo del Generalife 10 on Alhambra Hill in Granada, Andalusia, Spain. It is named after the American writer Washington Irving, who lived in the Alhambra in 1829 and whose Tales of the Alhambra helped bring the monument to international attention. The hotel stands beside the Generalife gardens and close to the Alhambra gates, about 6 minutes on foot from the Nasrid Palaces entrance area, which is a major advantage for guests with timed Alhambra tickets. The walk down to Granada Cathedral takes about 19 minutes, mostly downhill through the woods and the Cuesta de Gomérez, and the return is a steady climb, so many guests use taxis or the minibus in the evening. The location is quiet, green and set apart from the busy centre. Room categories include double rooms, superior rooms, junior suites and suites. Wi-Fi and air conditioning are listed, and the hotel is described as wheelchair accessible. Rates generally range between €200 and €500 per night, among the higher prices in Granada, with peaks around Holy Week, Corpus Christi and the autumn season. Dining arrangements are not detailed, though a hotel on Alhambra Hill is often used for breakfast and dinner by guests who prefer not to descend to town each evening; guests should confirm current restaurant hours. Pool and spa facilities are not confirmed in the listing. The property belongs to the Áurea collection of Eurostars Hotel Company, with details on eurostarshotels.com, and the phone number is +34 958 21 71 10. The service character is that of a traditional upscale hotel for couples, cultural travellers and anyone who values early or late access to the monument. Visitors should note that Alhambra tickets remain separate and sell out well ahead, so the hotel's position does not replace an advance booking.