Hotel Rua Villar - Santiago de Compostela, Spain 

Beautiful little (14 rooms) hotel in front of the famous Santiago de Compostela cathederal, where the penitents end their walk across Spain to its doors. Dark gleaming wood, warm beige walls and subtle furnishings, great bathrooms, wonderful breakfasts and great service--and great prices. great for business or pleasure.

This hotel is situated on the Rua do Vilar, one of the main narrow cobbled streets in the old town. The street is largely traffic free, especially in the evening. Our room (12) overlooked the street from a pair of balconies and this really brought the old town into the room. Noise wasn't a problem, however as there were a combination of 3 sets of door and heavy curtains. We arrived by taxi but I would think parking would be a big problem - this hotel is probably a non-starter if you want to bring a car. The room, bathroom and furnishings were in excellent order and there was a good combination of lighting. The bathroom was fitted with a shortish bath but the water never really got hot enough for a good wallow. Quality shampoos etc. Plenty of storage, good quality hangers, a safe and a (soft) mini-bar. No tea/coffe tray. Buffet breakfast pedestrian but adequate - including the ubiquitous and yummy Tarta de Santiago. Staff were efficient and helpfull and spoke enough English to fill in the many gaps in my schoolboy Spanish! So, all positive with no real gripes. However, at E150 for the room & brekky per night it doesn't really do anything you can't get for much less. Unless you really want to stay bang in the middle of the old town, and that in itself is very pleasant, I would try one of the attic rooms at the Altair up on Loureiros which is every bit as good and 2/3 of the price.