Best New Hotels 2007: Hospes Palacio de los Patos, Granada, Spain

We defy anybody not to feel like a princess relaxing in the sumptuous, seductive rooms in this inspired conversion of a 19th-century town palace in the centre of Granada. Now a sleek, modern 42-room hotel, the interior design highlights the original proportions of the building while introducing a contemporary vibe. White or black coconut leather features throughout the interiors, punctuated by silver and stainless steel detail. The hotel’s suites have silver curtains, carpets and chairs, in contrast with the rooms’ bright purple chaise-lounges. Surrounded by Arabic gardens, this is a mid-city oasis of calm.

Doubles from about $270, www.hospes.es, www.designhotels.com.