El Transcantábrico Clasico – 9 night tour from London by First Class rail on daytime trains

Hotel de L’Horloge

Housed in an imposing XIX century building, the Hotel de L’Horloge (4 star) is located in the heart of Avignon. Literally only a few steps from the historic Popes Palace, and with many of the hotel’s 66 rooms overlooking the tree-lined Place de l'Horloge (renowned for its restaurants and cafes), this hotel could not be more perfectly located. Rooms may vary in shape and size, but all offer similar standards of décor and comfortable accommodation with minibar and air-conditioning. The ambiance and setting of the breakfast room, with its terrace and street view, allow guests to enjoy a relaxing start to the day.

Hotel Liabeny

The elegant and distinguished Hotel Liabeny (4 stars) is ideally situated in the center of Madrid, just 200 meters from Puerta del Sol – Madrid’s most famous and central square. The hotel offers modern facilities such as a gym with sauna, a bar and lounge area, and an excellent selection of Mediterranean and International cuisine served in the Restaurante Sensaciones (Sensations Restaurant). The dining room also serves a buffet-style breakfast, where guests can find a large selection of pastries, cold and hot dishes and the famous home-made churros. This well-regarded hotel has 220 large and functional en-suite bedrooms all equipped with air-conditioning and central heating, LCD flat-screen satellite TV, a minibar, safe, free WiFi. Bathrooms feature a vanity mirror, hairdryer, and toiletries. Many of Madrid’s attractions can be found a short walk from the hotel, with the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums less than 10 minutes away.

Gran Hotel Sardinero

The Gran Hotel Sardinero (4 stars) enjoys a seafront location, set 20 yards from Sardinero Beach. Each of the hotels 102 elegant rooms feature classic cream décor and include a minibar with welcome water and soft drinks, a safe, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and a private bathroom. Many rooms also offer views of the Cantabrian Sea. The hotel’s charming restaurant offers traditional, regional cuisine while the cafeteria offers light snacks and refreshments. There are also lots of pleasant lounge areas where guests can relax. Buses and taxis to the center of Santander, 3 km, pass just outside the hotel.

AC Hotel Palacio del Carmen

The AC Hotel Palacio del Carmen (5 stars) is housed in a former convent, which has been carefully restored to create a luxury hotel near the center of historic Santiago de Compostela. Ideally located within walking distance of the city’s monuments, including the world-famous Cathedral, this luxury hotel has a tranquil atmosphere – allowing guests to enjoy a relaxing break in this beautiful Galician city. Guests can wander through the gardens or spend the evening on the terrace, or alternatively unwind with a session in the gym. The hotel also boasts an indoor pool with salted water, located on the ground floor. Each of the hotel’s 74 rooms and suites features comfortable beds, a plasma TV, minibar and en-suite bathrooms, with some rooms offering quiet views of the hotel’s garden.

Gran Hotel Torre Catalunya

The stylish Gran Hotel Torre Catalunya (4 stars) boasts fantastic panoramic views of Barcelona. The hotel offers a spa, indoor swimming pool and the contemporary Bar Eclectik with its minimalist décor, serving food and cocktails. One of the hotels many selling points is the Visual Restaurant, boasting spectacular cityscape views from the 23rd floor and offering a selection of Mediterranean dishes. This smart hotel's convenient location next to the Barcelona Sants mainline allows for easy connections to the city center in around 15 minutes. All 272 modern and spacious rooms at the hotel feature air conditioning, satellite TV, 24-hour room service, a safe and minibar.