El Escondite Del Viento

A hip and colourful town-centre hotel which doubles as a showcase for iconic, contemporary design

José and Alejandra left high-flying careers in Madrid for a new life in the über-trendy historic centre of Tarifa. The 200-year-old building they rebirthed as a boutique hotel is yards from the town's central square yet hidden away from the brouhaha of its crowded bars and the levante wind that blows hard for much of the year. Thus the hotel's name: 'Refuge from the Wind'.

From the outside, the building's 19th-century façade is in synch with its urban context, but inside Escondite waves tradition goodbye. Iron, glass and wood have been fabulously commingled to provide a light, sculptural and edgy backdrop for an iconic collection of modern design classics: Van der Rohe's Barcelona chair and bed, Panton chairs in red and black, George Nelson's whimsical Marshmallow armchair. There's an eclectic collection of paintings and sculpture, good sounds and a high feel-good factor permeating every corner of the hotel. Add to this easy and pro-active management and 6 design-mag-perfect bedrooms... it's purrfect.

Highs

• The hotel is remarkably quiet considering you're at the heart of Tarifa's pretty old town
• The design is slick, colourful and contemporary, but comfort hasn't been sidelined for good looks
• José and Alejandra are relaxed, intelligent and light-hearted hosts: meeting them makes a stay here more special
• Tarifa is the most happening place on Andalucia's Atlantic coast and Escondite is a match for the town's young, creative and vibrant spirit

Lows

• There's not a whole lot of space on the roof terrace for chilling out unless you get one of the the top 2 bedrooms with their own slice of terrace
• Tarifa really rocks at the weekends and the party goes on all night. But you'll sleep soundly at Escondite
• The nearest place to park your car is a 200m away, so be prepared for a small schlep with your suitcase
• The hotel currently has no restaurant, though there are plenty of options for dining nearby