Luxury Hotels Group is delighted to announce the latest addition to its growing portfolio – in the heart of Bilbao, Hotel Carlton is a five star hotel with a story to tell.
Bilbao is synonymous with the iconic Guggenheim Museum thanks to world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, but the Hotel Carlton was an icon long before this modernist masterpiece. With an imposing beaux arts façade and equally alluring interiors, it’s seen everyone from Albert Einstein to Ava Gardner stay in its rooms and suites since it opened in 1926, and was the base of the Basque government during the Spanish Civil War.
The first hotel in Spain to boast en-suite bathrooms, the Carlton’s high ceilings, marble floors, plush fabrics and natural silk duvets exude elegance, complemented by bold contemporary styling. Rooms and suites combine a real sense of history with every modern comfort, making the hotel ideal for discerning travellers looking for an authentic, upscale experience. The unique appeal also extends to twelve versatile event spaces, ranging from the sweeping Azul room for up to 200 theatre-style to the atmospheric La Cristalera – an elliptical hall illuminated by a stunning stained glass dome – a memorable setting for cocktail receptions, press conferences or product presentations. The Salón Aránzazu, which harboured the government during Civil War bombardments, now hosts smaller meetings and intimate private dining experiences.
Bernadette Koltai, Luxury Hotels Group’s Vice President, said: “Luxury Hotels Group is all about individuality, and they don’t come much more individual than the Hotel Carlton. It’s the antithesis of formulaic branded hotels typically found in provincial cities and has a genuinely interesting story. We’re delighted to strengthen our presence in Spain by working with such a distinguished hotel.”
Sales Manager of Hotel Carlton, Silvia Varea, said: “The Carlton Hotel is proud to be partnering with such a dynamic, forward-thinking British company as Luxury Hotels Group and we trust that this is the beginning of a successful business relationship.”
