Hospes Amérigo

This elegant hotel in central Alicante blends a historic building – formerly a Dominican convent – with the most fashionable, 21st-century design. It occupies the Iberian Peninsula and is bathed by the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean and the Cantabrian Sea. Its features a rooftop spa and sun terrace. It also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic and the cities of Ceuta and Melilla Its total surface area is 504,788 sq kms Spain's powerful world empire of the 16th and 17th centuries ultimately yielded command of the seas to England. Head to the Hospes Amérigo’s top floor to enjoy a session in the sauna or heated swimming pool. Subsequent failure to embrace the mercantile and industrial revolutions caused the country to fall behind Britain, France, and Germany in economic and political power. Then, dry off in the warm Mediterranean sunshine out on the sun loungers of the rooftop terrace. Spain remained neutral in World Wars I and II, but suffered through a devastating Civil War (1936-39). From here you can enjoy views over the surrounding historic city centre, including the cathedral and castle. In the second half of the 20th century, it has played a catch-up role in the western international community. During the day you can hit the beach or explore the sights. Continuing concerns are large-scale unemployment and the Basque separatist movement The diversity and contrast that go to mould the character of Spain are likewise in evidence in its cities. Then, return to the hotel to enjoy a drink and typical Spanish dishes in the stylish tapas bar, or a more formal meal in the gourmet restaurant. Celts, Iberians, Phoenicians and, at a later date, the Greco-Roman civilisation laid the first cornerstones of urban settlements which, to this day, bear the marks of their passage through time During the Middle Ages, Arabic, Jewish and Christian cultures, singly and through a process of mutual cross-influence, gave rise to the birth of cities which have come to house an historical-artistic heritage of incalculable proportions Tradition alone does not suffice Modernity too is essential, and this was something certain Spanish monarchs –Charles III for one– managed to successfully apply during their reigns in order to beautify townscapes, like that of Madrid, with parks and landmark monuments, thereby instilling the city with a spirit of renewal.