The Palacio-Hotel Arriluce is, in the words of its management, not a hotel. It is first and foremost a palace, and an experience. Located in the coastal town of Getxo, in a spectacular setting overlooking the Nervión river estuary and the Gulf of Vizcaya, Arriluce offers guests a luxury experience in all senses – comfort, excellent gastronomy, wellness and the opportunity to enjoy all that nearby Bilbao and Vizcaya have to offer.
It is no wonder that the Palacio de Arriluce received a Best Of Wine Tourism award by Bilbao-Rioja in 2025 in the Accommodation category.
Focus on Art
The property was designed in a neogothic style for the Marquises of Arriluce by the Bilbao architect and impresario José Luis Oriol Urigüen in 1912. Today the decoration in the palace includes paintings and engravings by the French artist Sonia Delaunay (1885-1979), a favorite muse of the marquises, as well as abstract lithographs by the Czech painter and graphic artist František Kupka (1871-1957).
Elegance in every corner
Arriluce has 49 rooms of different sizes in six categories, each with a sea view.
Renowned Basque chef Beñat Ormaetxea oversees the Delaunay restaurant, specializing in Basque cuisine with a modern focus. Diners can order à la carte or choose from three tasting menus. The restaurant’s wine list features Spanish and international selections as well as an extensive range of champagne.
Guests can enjoy a glass of wine or another beverage on the hotel terrace and in the hotel and pool bars.
Arriluce is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.
Enjoy sports?
Arriluce features a 24-hour gym, including a water circuit, two massage rooms and an outdoor pool. Those wishing to try a traditional very British pastime can play on the hotel’s official croquet field.
Experiences
The hotel concierge can organize an array of interesting things to do in the area. These include a visit to the Guggenheim Museum in nearby Bilbao, a cruise around the port of Getxo, and discovering an underseas wine cellar.
The Palacio-Hotel is a worthy addition to the upscale seaside town of Getxo for its luxurious accommodations, devotion to art, delicious cuisine and attention to detail in every aspect.
Text by Tom Perry, Inside Rioja
Photos: Palacio Arriluce Hotel
Learn more about Bilbao-Rioja Great Wine Capitals