Hotel Iturregi is a hidden gem perched on a hillside above the fishing village of Getaria, in Spain’s Basque Country. Nestled among rolling txakoli vineyards and lush greenery, this intimate hotel occupies a lovingly converted 19th-century Basque farmhouse (caserío). With only eight spacious rooms (six elegant rooms and two expansive suites), Iturregi offers an atmosphere of exclusive tranquility – an adults-only retreat (guests 14+) dedicated to peace and relaxation. Here, the real luxury is “to experience it”: the luxury of silence, nature, and unhurried time.

Basque Farmhouse Charm & Sea Views

Each room is individually decorated in a timeless style, with high ceilings and exposed beams, refined antiques alongside contemporary pieces, plush bedding and modern bathrooms. Large windows are central to the experience: some rooms open onto sweeping views of the blue Cantabrian Sea and the Getaria lighthouse, while others look out over verdant vineyards and rolling hills.

Mornings at Iturregi often begin with soft sunlight filtering through white curtains, the sound of birds and distant ocean waves, and no trace of city noise – just the serene Basque countryside. The house feels both luxurious and homely, full of character yet calm and uncluttered.

Vineyards, Infinity Pool & Outdoor Serenity

The setting is one of the hotel’s greatest assets. Iturregi is surrounded by its own txakoli vineyards – a small abandoned vineyard that the owners revived during the hotel’s creation. Guests can wander among the neat rows, learn about the local Hondarrabi Zuri grape, and in late summer may even witness or join in grape harvesting.

The panoramic terrace and infinity pool are iconic features. From the pool, you can gaze at the Cantabrian Sea on one side and emerald hills on the other, bathed in sunlight and sea breezes. On clear days, the coastline stretches all the way to the mouse-shaped Ratón de Getaria peninsula and beyond. Sunsets from here are especially magical, with the sky turning shades of tangerine and pink over the water as swallows swoop above the vineyards.

At night, with minimal light pollution, the stars are clearly visible. Guests often describe the experience as “an oasis of tranquility”, listening to crickets and distant waves under the night sky.

Subtle Sustainability & Thoughtful Design

Inside, Hotel Iturregi combines rustic charm with discreetly modern, eco-conscious design. The renovation preserved the traditional farmhouse exterior while rebuilding the interior with energy-efficient systems and locally sourced materials. Large picture windows and skylights reduce the need for artificial lighting and invite nature into the living spaces, while thick stone walls and new insulation help stabilize indoor temperatures.

The hotel encourages an eco-friendly stay through simple, thoughtful measures:

• Complimentary bicycles allow guests to explore without driving – the Coastal Camino de Santiago passes nearby, and you can bike or hike to Getaria or Zumaia.
• An on-site electric vehicle charger supports guests arriving in EVs.
• Water consumption is carefully managed, with sheets and towels changed on request rather than automatically.
• Amenities such as bath products are organic and locally made.

Nothing is ostentatiously “eco”; instead, the ethos is quiet sustainability that respects the surrounding landscape.

Breakfast, Service & Slow Living

With so few rooms, the experience at Iturregi is intimate and highly personalized. Staff are frequently praised for their warmth and professionalism, treating guests with genuine care and attention. On arrival, you might be welcomed with a glass of local txakoli on the terrace or a coffee enjoyed with a sea view.

Breakfast is a highlight of the day, served in the cozy dining room or on the terrace: fresh orange juice, local cheeses and charcuterie, house-baked pastries, seasonal fruits, and eggs made to order. The hotel does not operate a full restaurant for lunch and dinner, but offers light snacks and an honesty bar, and is happy to arrange in-room dining such as a charcuterie board with Getaria’s famous anchovies and a bottle of wine for a romantic sunset on your balcony.

The team is also excellent at restaurant recommendations, securing reservations at superb local spots – including several Michelin-starred options – so guests can fully indulge in Basque gastronomy.

Exploring the Basque Coast – Or Simply Staying Still

Hotel Iturregi is perfectly positioned for exploring the Basque Coast. Within a short drive, you can reach:

• Playa de Zarautz, a long sandy surf beach
• Playa de Getaria, a smaller, charming beach close to the harbor
• The dramatic Flysch cliffs of Zumaia, known for their geological strata and coastal walks

Cultural outings might include the Balenciaga Museum in Getaria, celebrating the town’s most famous fashion designer, or a day trip to San Sebastián (about 30 minutes by car) for pintxo-hopping in the Parte Vieja and strolls along La Concha Bay.

Yet many guests find equal pleasure in staying put at Iturregi – reading in the elegant lounge with its fireplace and library, napping by the pool, or enjoying an in-room massage organized by the hotel. Come evening, the candle-lit patio, honesty bar and a good bottle of Rioja set the scene for quiet, intimate moments under the stars. With no small children and little noise, it is an ideal hideaway for couples, honeymooners and anyone celebrating something special; staff often add thoughtful touches like cava or rose petals for such occasions.

Understated Basque Luxury & True Rest

In essence, Hotel Iturregi offers understated luxury with a powerful sense of place. It is the harmonious convergence of Basque hospitality, modern comfort and a landscape of vineyards and sea that naturally soothes the soul.

Guests consistently describe their stay as exceptional, noting the outstanding location, characterful design and sincerely helpful staff. For those seeking a quiet retreat to disconnect – “Iturregi” itself means “old spring” in Basque, symbolizing renewal – while still enjoying the region’s world-class food, wine and scenery, this small hotel is a rare find.

It stands as a testament that sustainability and serenity can coexist beautifully with style and sophistication, creating an unforgettable Basque Country escape where time slows down and the luxury lies in simply being.