Arima Hotel & Spa, San Sebastián: Exclusive Hotel Interview & Local Recommendations
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In the treetops of the Miramón Forest, Arima Hotel & Spa feels like a true sanctuary. I visited in June 2025 and, from the moment I arrived, it was clear why Arima Hotel & Spa is part of the Considerate Collection of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Surrounded by nature yet just moments from San Sebastián, it offers a rare balance: a forest retreat with all the ease of city access.
Over four days, I experienced the calm of waking up to views of nature, the thoughtful design that blends modern luxury with natural textures and a philosophy deeply rooted in sustainability. It is a place that invites you to slow down, reconnect with the landscape, and embrace a more mindful way of travelling - and I could easily have stayed much longer. What stood out just as much was the warmth of the team; at any time of day, there was always someone ready to greet you with kindness and care.
Below, you will find my interview with Erima Imaz and the team at Arima Hotel & Spa, where we discuss their story, the hotel’s philosophy, what guests love most and their recommendations for discovering the local area.
Can you tell me a bit about your background and story at Arima Hotel & Spa?
Arima Hotel & Spa was born from a desire to create a hospitality concept where luxury and sustainability are seamlessly intertwined. From the very beginning, it was envisioned as a place where contemporary design, comfort and energy efficiency exist in harmony with nature, offering each guest an experience that goes far beyond the ordinary.
What are the two most important values or guiding principles behind how you run the hotel?
At the heart of the hotel lie two guiding principles:
Conscious luxury – placing value on quality, comfort and attention to detail, without compromising respect for the planet.
Genuine care – present in every decision, from the way guests are welcomed to the selection of suppliers and materials.
What would you say is the most unique thing about your hotel and what do guests love the most?
One of the most treasured aspects of a stay at Arima Hotel & Spa is the profound sense of calm and wellbeing felt throughout the hotel. Our Passivhaus-certified architecture, the quiet atmosphere, the abundance of natural light and the views over the Miramón Forest create an environment that invites disconnection and rest. The harmony between design, sustainability and personalised attention is, for many, what makes the experience truly unique.
What are some sustainability features that you are particularly proud of?
Passivhaus certification, ensuring 70% greater energy efficiency than a conventional building.
Heating and cooling powered by 28 geothermal wells and an aerothermal system.
Predominant use of natural and recyclable materials.
Responsible waste and water management throughout the property.
Collaboration with local suppliers and brands that share our environmental philosophy.
Charging stations for electric vehicles
Menus focused on organic, locally sourced produce - from daily fish market catches to regional farmers’ markets.
Landscaping with native plants and trees selected by local experts to protect biodiversity.
Are there any local traditions, crafts or cultural stories that inspired your design or guest experience - and how do you support the people behind them?
Our connection to the Basque Country goes beyond design inspiration – it is woven into the guest experience. The hotel building itself was designed by a San Sebastian–based architecture studio, ensuring the project reflects local talent and sensibilities from its very foundations. One example of our commitment to celebrating Basque heritage is our collaboration with Amarenak, a local brand that reinterprets traditional Basque clothing with a modern, sustainable approach. Their timeless garments, crafted with natural materials and made entirely in the Basque Country, are available at the hotel for guests to discover and take home. Through partnerships like this, we celebrate and preserve our cultural heritage while supporting the artisans and makers who keep these traditions alive.
How do you make sure your guests have a positive impact here?
We encourage our guests to make choices that contribute positively to the destination. This can mean opting for experiences that respect and protect the natural environment, supporting independent local businesses, or dining in establishments that champion seasonal, responsibly sourced produce. By making mindful decisions during their stay, guests help sustain the traditions, economy and landscapes that make this corner of the Basque Country so distinctive.
How do you support the local economy - through your team, your suppliers, or the experiences you offer?
Recruiting local talent
Sourcing food, beverages and equipment from nearby producers.
Promoting experiences and visits to independent businesses that reflect the essence of San Sebastian and its surroundings.
What are some of the best things to do or see nearby / in San Sebastián that you would personally recommend?
A few musts for visitors:
Strolling through the Old Town and sampling its lively pintxos bars.
Visiting the Peine del Viento sculpture by Eduardo Chillida.
Walking up Mount Urgull or Mount Igueldo for panoramic views.
Enjoying the beaches of La Concha, Ondarreta and Zurriola.
Can you tell me about the location of the hotel and what it’s close to? What makes it special?
Set alongside the Miramón Forest, the hotel offers the tranquillity of a natural setting combined with proximity to San Sebastian’s main attractions. It is an ideal base for those seeking to switch off while still enjoying the city’s rich cultural and culinary scene.
Are there any local restaurants or cafés in San Sebastián you love, recommend and think more people should know about?
Beyond our own dining spaces, we encourage guests to explore:
Traditional pintxos bars in the Old Town.
Small, independent cafés offering artisanal pastries and speciality coffee.
Local restaurants celebrating seasonal cuisine with fresh, regional produce.