Stylish boutique hotel with outdoor oasis in Basel

November 11, 2020, 1 Comment

It must have been fate. I had planned to go to The Passage hotel three doors down but they insisted check in was only from 5pm; how unfriendly! So I went to the Steinenenschanze Hotel and got a great welcome (check in anytime, we’re flexible). Reader, I stayed, and I’m glad I did.

From the outside it looks rather grim and plain but inside is a different world. Stylish, bright and modern but designed by someone who had actually thought about what guests need. And it was all sparkling clean, with even the room key wrapped in plastic.

I had a ‘Small Charming Room’ and it was both, with real wood floors and thoughtful extras like bathrobes and Nespresso. Perfect for one but a bit tight for two, not least because the split bathroom means the shower’s effectively in the bedroom. Possibly not what everyone wants.

Of course there are larger bedrooms with whole bathrooms so I’d upgrade if I was here with someone. Light sleepers should ask for a room at the back, overlooking the garden (as mine did). That’s a lovely little oasis away from the noise of the busy road out front.

Breakfast was expensive. The buffet was 25 francs and I wasn’t hungry enough in the morning to justify that much so I had the lighter option: 9 francs for scrambled eggs and bread with a coffee (or in my case, hot chocolate).

Would I stay again? Yes. The staff are friendly (the welcome drink is a nice touch), the room is comfortable and the location is good – a short walk to the station or city centre. I liked the whole look and feel of the hotel, plus the garden is wonderful.

Book direct here.

Overall rating: 79%

• Best bits: stylish comfy rooms, great service, lovely garden.
• Worst bits: expensive breakfast, busy road, split bathroom.

I paid 133 francs for single use of a Small Charming Room with a small breakfast.