This apartment has charm galore. It sits atop (as in all the way, 97 stairs, at the top) of the ancient and evocative Arco de Cuchilleros on a corner of the famous and beautiful Plaza Mayor. There are fantastic views in every direction. The views across the Plaza are incredible both from the bedroom window/ balcony, the kitchen window/balcony as well as from the rooftop garden. The parade of life that unfolds below is wonderful from the morning when all the cleaning of the plaza happens and the restaurants set up, to the afternoon when the crowds descend and pass through, to the evening when the restaurants and bars are all abuzz with the joy that is Spanish living. Because this is a 17th century dwelling, don't expect a Marriott or Hilton experience. It is rustic. The shower is strange but fun. There are enough knobs and whirly-gigs to operate a time machine! The bathroom sink is a little weird, with all kings of crevices that don't let the water drain...but really, who cares? The bedding is comfortable and clean. The attic room has very low ceilings...so be careful. The living room is an architectural reflection of the entire corner of the Plaza Mayor...a true garret..so here too, you have to watch your head. Two of us slammed or heads into the projecting corner, even while we were being mindful! Still...if you choose this dwelling you will be rewarded with much stronger legs from the climb up the stairs and a joyful heart from the incredible views over the very heart of Spain. Don't hesitate to buy the little 1 euro packages of jamon and queso that you'll find in the local mercados. Just because they are 1 euro doesn't mean they aren't good. In fact, we were shocked at how good they were. Get your self a baguette and some of these inexpensive little packets of ham and cheese and you'll have quite a nice little picnic on the rooftop garden as long as you also bring a nice dry whte Spanish wine up there as well.
Anouk and Patricia (a super cool young lady) were very responsive and helpful and Patricia, who greeted us at the residence, seemed genuinely happy to have us there.