This expertly restored property is the best preserved 12th-century Cistercian monastery in Europe. Originally founded in 1143, the monastery enjoys a privileged position in the village of San Bernardo within the Ribera del Duero wine region of Northern Spain. Rooms are sympathetically restored, featuring vintage finishings in keeping with the original history of the building. Wood beam ceilings, exposed original brickwork, stone arched windows overlooking the vineyards; paired back with contemporary bathrooms, ambient lighting and eco-friendly amenities to provide a sense of the property’s history without compromising on luxury. The suites are all individual and in some cases offer a freestanding bathtub and sauna complete with a private balcony or terrace, perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine overlooking the vineyards.
The hotel’s à la carte restaurant Converso is run by renowned naturalist chef Miguel Ángel de la Cruz, serving up both traditional and modern dishes prepared with the region's highest quality seasonal produce. The organic garden feeds the kitchen for many months of the year, and rows of carefully nurtured vegetables, herbs and fruits dictate the basis of the dishes. Alongside Iberian cured meats and cheeses from Castile and León, the freshest seafood is selected daily from the local market. What's more, a comprehensive wine list offers specially selected local and international wines, as well as the wine produced in the monastery itself. Gastrobar La Cilla serves up a selection of light dishes and sharing plates, and with an outdoor terrace is the perfect atmosphere for pre–dinner drinks. Finally, the Monk’s wine cellar is open at the weekends for guests to enjoy the finest selection of local and international wines, perfect for tastings with dishes to compliment.
With a primary focus on wellness, the hotel’s spa facilities do not disappoint. You’ll find an extensive Clarins treatment menu, treatment cabins, infinity and thermal pools with views across Ribera del Duero, a well-equipped gym and various spaces designed for ultimate relaxation, enjoying the benefits of the mineral-medicinal water. Additionally, you won't want to miss the unique contrast therapy circuit housed in the historic church within the monastery – enjoy its hot and cold pools, saunas and spectacular architecture.
