Seville’s Historic Hotel Colón Gran Meliá Gets a Refresh

Spain’s two largest cities elicit supreme interest from prospective travelers, particularly those who are visiting on business. But when it came time for my first visit to the country, I opted for a third option beyond the country’s buzzing commercial hubs in Madrid and Barcelona. My best friend was about to complete a two-year stint at a renowned flamenco school in Seville, and I jumped at the chance to visit before she returned to the States—and to stay at one of the most celebrated hotels in the city.

In recent years, a growing slate of conferences and events has drawn renewed focus to Seville. Just last year, the city welcomed global superstars when it hosted the Latin Grammys, marking the first time the event was held outside the U.S. The Hotel Colón Gran Meliá took part, accommodating musicians and media for coverage of the event.

The property itself has attracted global recognition since it first opened. A Leading Hotel of the World, the five-star property made its debut in 1929 in time for the Ibero-American Exposition. As the hotel approaches its centennial, it is undergoing a renovation, a process that began during the pandemic slowdown. While the revamp was initially focused on common areas, the property also expects to unveil redesigned rooms and suites in early 2025.

Guest room door featuring Francisco Goya’s The Grape Harvest / Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Colón Gran Meliá Seville

Upon arrival, my eyes were drawn to the many artifacts on the lobby walls—a mini museum of Andalusian history guests can access before they step out onto the streets of Seville. A fringed and ruffled pink and white flamenco dress was the standout piece for me, and for good reason: Grace Kelly wore it during her 1966 visit to the Seville Fair. The staff at the front desk were eager to share their knowledge, and they recommended I visit the adjoining library room once I got settled.

The museum atmosphere continued as I made my way to the guest rooms—each of the floors spotlights the art of Spanish Golden Age painters, from El Greco to Diego Velázquez. The suites were all booked when I visited during the summer peak season, but the hotel was able to provide two rooms with connecting doors for our group. The hallways leading to our accommodations showcased works by El Greco, with our sixth-floor rooms bearing the name of his Baptism of Christ.

With little time to linger, I made my way back to the library room, where I found plush leather and velvet sofas as well as lounge and bar-style seating. The area makes for a peaceful workstation, complementing the property’s ample conference space. But the library is also home to hundreds of sightseeing, the plaza was not on my initial itinerary, but seeing González’s original 1929 sketch for the ornate plaza inspired me to carve out time for a visit. González’s drawings could have never prepared me for the sensory overload I experienced there, from the size of the plaza to its painted banisters, multicolored tile mosaics and dancers in flowing flamenco dresses, their heels rattling against the plaza steps. I wound up staying all afternoon, with the plaza becoming my favorite landmark I saw during my time in Seville.

Junior suite with Cathedral view / Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Colón Gran Meliá Seville

Best For

Travelers looking to explore the city from a comfortable central location. The hotel is within walking distance of major Seville landmarks including the Giralda tower, Seville Cathedral and Metropol Parasol, best seen during an evening stroll on the way to dinner, when its Aurora light show illuminates nearby restaurants and attractions.

Verdict

The history of Seville and Andalusia permeates the spirit of the Hotel Colón Gran Meliá, but the property’s near-complete remodel proves its readiness to move into the future. The Wellness Spa by Clarins is tucked away in cozy quarters on the top floor, and its adjacent heated pool, open year-round, offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city below.
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