Hotel Iturregi is a hidden gem perched on a hillside above the fishing village of Getaria, in Spain’s Basque Country. Tucked 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 provides an atmosphere of exclusive tranquility – an adults-only retreat (guests must be 14+) dedicated to peace and relaxation. The real luxury here, as the hotel proclaims, is “to experience it” – meaning the luxury of silence, of nature, of unhurried time. Each room is uniquely decorated with timeless style: think high ceilings with exposed beams, refined antiques mixed with contemporary pieces, plush bedding, and modern bathrooms. Large windows frame stunning vistas – some rooms look out to the blue Cantabrian Sea and the Getaria lighthouse in the distance, others gaze over verdant vineyards and rolling hills. Waking up at Iturregi often means soft sunlight filtering through white curtains and the sound of birds or distant ocean waves, with no city clamor to disturb the morning peace. The hotel’s setting is truly spectacular. Surrounded by its own txakoli grape vineyards (the owners revived a small abandoned vineyard on-site during the hotel’s creation), Iturregi offers guests a unique taste of Basque wine culture. You can wander through the neat rows of vines, learn about the local Hondarrabi Zuri grapes, and in late summer even participate in grape harvesting if you’re lucky. The panoramic terrace and infinity pool area is one of the hotel’s highlights – from the pool you can bask in views of the Cantabrian Sea on one side and emerald hills on the other, all while soaking in the sun and gentle ocean breezes. On clear days, the coastline view stretches to Getaria’s Ratón de Getaria (a mouse-shaped peninsula) and beyond. Sunsets from this vantage point are magical, with the sky turning tangerine over the water as swallows dart above the vineyards. At night, the lack of light pollution means you can often stargaze while hearing crickets and distant waves, truly “enjoying an oasis of tranquility” as many guests note. Inside, Hotel Iturregi combines rustic charm with modern sustainability. The renovation preserved the farmhouse’s traditional exterior but built the interior with energy-efficient systems and local materials. Large picture windows and skylights reduce the need for artificial lighting (and let nature in), while the thick stone walls and new insulation keep temperatures stable. The hotel encourages an eco-friendly stay: they provide complimentary bicycles for guests to explore the area without driving (the famous Coastal Camino de Santiago trail passes nearby, and you can bike or hike all the way to Getaria or Zumaia), and there’s an electric vehicle charger on-site for those arriving in EVs. Water consumption is monitored carefully (sheets and towels are changed upon request to save water), and amenities like bath products are organic and locally made. The ethos here is subtle sustainability – nothing flashy, just thoughtful choices that respect the beautiful environment Iturregi inhabits. The experience at Iturregi is meant to be highly relaxing and personalized. With so few rooms, the staff (often praised for their warmth and professionalism) devote attention to every guest. Upon arrival, you might be greeted with a glass of local txakoli or a cup of coffee on the terrace. Each morning, a delightful breakfast is served à la carte or buffet-style in the cozy dining area – featuring fresh orange juice, local cheeses and charcuterie, house-baked pastries, and eggs cooked to order. The hotel doesn’t have a full restaurant for lunch/dinner, but it offers light snacks and an honest bar, and the staff gladly recommend superb nearby restaurants (some Michelin-starred) and handle reservations for you. In-room dining like a charcuterie board with Getaria’s famous anchovies and a bottle of wine can also be arranged for a romantic sunset on your balcony. Guests often spend their days exploring the Basque Coast’s attractions: beaches like Playa de Zarautz (long sandy surf beach) and Playa de Getaria are a short drive away, as is the gorgeous Flysch cliffs of Zumaia. Cultural excursions might include the Balenciaga Museum (Getaria’s tribute to its famous fashion designer native) or pintxo-hopping in San Sebastián (about 30 minutes by car). Yet many find equal pleasure simply lounging at Iturregi – reading a book in the stylish lounge (stocked with a library and a fireplace for cooler evenings), or enjoying a massage in your room arranged by the hotel. Come evening, Iturregi exudes romance: the candle-lit patio, honesty bar, and perhaps a fine bottle of Rioja set the scene for intimate conversations under the stars. With no kids running around and no noise, it’s an ideal couples’ hideaway. Notably, the hotel’s adult-oriented serenity is a big draw for honeymooners or those celebrating anniversaries – the staff often add special touches like rose petals or cava for such occasions. In essence, Hotel Iturregi offers understated luxury with a strong sense of place. It’s the perfect convergence of Basque hospitality and modern comfort, set against a backdrop of vineyards and sea that soothes the soul. Guests consistently rate their experience as exceptional, citing the “outstanding location,” “full of character” design, and “sincere, helpful staff”. If you seek a quiet retreat to disconnect (Iturregi literally means “old spring” in Basque, symbolizing renewal) and yet also want to indulge in the Basque region’s famed food, wine, and scenery, Hotel Iturregi provides a haven where you can do just that. It stands as a testament that sustainability and serenity can join hands with style and sophistication, creating an unforgettable Basque Country escape.