Book the Hotel El Convento with VIP Benefits

You will find the Hotel El Convento in the center of Old San Juan. This boutique hotel was once a 17th-century convent. It combines a rich history and excellent service for a stay that is truly memorable. Hotel El Convento provides more than an overnight stay. You can enjoy the Spanish architecture or sip wine in the courtyard. This review will explore what makes this property a popular choice among travelers.

Overview

The Hotel El Convento is a former Carmelite convent dating back to 1651. However, it is now a unique destination. This is evident from the number of tourists who photograph the Spanish Colonial façade from across the street. You can also peek through the enormous wooden doors to the lobby, which could be mistaken for an art gallery.

This hotel is a historic landmark of great importance. The staff's attention to detail and the ambiance create a truly special experience. This 350-year-old building was the first convent of San Juan, and it housed nuns there for 252 consecutive years until 1903. In 1959, the building was almost demolished to make way for a parking garage. However, the Woolworth fortune restored the convent and transformed it into a hotel.

Greenery decorated the hallway arches. Two extra floors were added around the courtyard. Moreover, the Spanish decor includes chandeliers, mahogany beams, tapestries, and antiques. It was no surprise that the hotel had many VIPs at its opening. This is still true today. Although Woolworths no longer owns the hotel, it has received many awards following its grand opening in 1997.

The hotel also boasts a romantic atmosphere, which naturally attracts couples on honeymoon. Many destination weddings take place here. Event spaces are also available, from the herb gardens terrace to the 300-person Salon Campeche. It is also an excellent hotel for business travelers, offering free Wi-Fi and lounges.

The daily Manager's Reception on La Veranda Terrace, which includes appetizers, wine, and cheese, is also a welcoming feature. The hotel also offers a biweekly historical guided tour. Guests may also receive beach privileges at the hotel's beach club on Isla Verde Beach. You can also splash in the pool and the jacuzzi.

Location

Hotel El Convento sits on Cristo Street in Old San Juan. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, and you can easily reach it from anywhere in the United States. There are also many flight options. Puerto Rico is also an excellent hub to hop between Caribbean islands, as many flights connect there.

Moreover, the hotel is only a 30-minute drive from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. You also do not have to rent a vehicle if you prefer not to. Uber and Lyft are available right at the airport.

Furthermore, the streets in Old San Juan are never dull. Every corner has a history, offers views of old San Juan, features art, or provides a cozy spot to eat or shop. The cruise ships at the town's port also offer sailing tours to highlight the scenery. Besides, you can reach the Casa Bacardí, a distillery in the middle of the bay, by the Cataño ferry.

Rooms

There are 81 guest rooms. The original convent floors have high ceilings and wooden beams. Most rooms feature an additional soundproof door, which is a result of the open-plan design. This ensures a tranquil environment in each room. Moreover, luxury linens are on the beds, along with goose-down pillows. Bose Sound Systems have also been installed, as well as 37-inch TVs.

The Woolworth heir and an interior designer traveled to Spain in the 1960s and purchased a large quantity of furniture. The superior rooms have louvered doors that open to Juliet balconies. Deluxe rooms are on the two lower floors. They feature higher ceilings with wooden beams.

Besides, from the balcony of Vista Rooms, you can enjoy views over the bay or the San Juan Cathedral. The One-Bedroom suites feature a sitting room and a king-sized or twin-sized bed in the main bedroom. The Gloria Vanderbilt Suite and Pablo Casals Suite are two of the specialty suites. A Junior Suite is also available with a couch bed. The hotel also provides rooms for guests with disabilities. It includes an elevator and a ramp for easy access.

Dimmed lighting and Spanish guitar music playing on Bose systems are included in the romantic turndown services. Bedside chocolates are also available.

Dining

The Hotel El Convento, despite its prime location, is within walking distance of many bars and restaurants in Old San Juan. It also offers guests and locals three unique restaurants.

Patio del Nispero is the main restaurant, serving lunch, dinner, breakfast, and brunch to diners. The romantic patio, anchored by a Nispero tree, rises high above. It is the focal point of the hotel, and all the rooms offer a view of it.

This restaurant offers breakfast classics, such as Eggs Benedict and banana nut pancakes. For lunch, enjoy a variety of seafood and salads. At dinner, savor Puerto Rican dishes and gourmet options.

Moreover, El Picoteo, situated on the upper level, features an extensive wine list, a Spanish paella menu, and a selection of tapas. This bar is romantic at night with its massive candle flames and Spanish music.

Pizza e Birra is a more casual and fun option on the 1st floor. It offers 20 craft beers and thin-crust pastas, as well as indoor and outdoor seating. There are also options for indoor and outdoor seating. All three meals are available in-room.

This property also features a beautiful herb garden, which extends down the entire hallway. Pots filled with fresh fruits and herbs are in each of the three kitchens and are also used for cocktail garnishes.

Spa & Wellness

On the premises, there is also a coin-operated laundromat. Guest services can request spa services or aromatherapy. The staff can also arrange for professional guides to take you on a tour of Old San Juan's historic sites. A 24-hour fitness center is also available.

Takeaway

One of the historic hotels of America and a Small Luxury Hotel of the World, El Convento Hotel, is, in itself, a great destination. The hotel offers a unique blend of luxury and authenticity. Its deep history, inviting ambiance, and central spot in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, set it apart. You'll be captivated by the hotel's historic style and its modern comforts. You should consider this property if you want to have a culturally enriching stay in Puerto Rico. If you stay in San Juan, stay at the Hotel El Convento!