The Hotel Maria Cristina (now part of the Westin "Luxury Collection" hotel group) is still the grandest of the older "belle epoque" hotels in San Sebastian. Opened in 1912, the hotel was named after Queen Maria Cristina of Spain, whose regal portrait hangs in its grand lobby.
The hotel has 136 guest rooms and 5 floors of splendor fit for visiting royalty and dignitaries. The sizeable hotel certainly seems larger and grander than one that has 136 rooms. The hotel, not far from LaConcha Beach, is surrounded by colorful gardens. In keeping with the grandiose style of those times, lavish materials like marble, onyx, gold leaf and mahogany are employed throughout the hotel.
The lobby bar has the air of a sophisticated, clubby retreat, perhaps a bit stuffy for some. The luxurious rooms on high floors have various splendid views, depending on which side you are facing. The staff was quite helpful when I had questions to be answered. Get a hard candy and some brochures from the front desk.