What is the name of your accommodation?

The name of our accommodation is Solo Palacio. It's a unique blend of history, architecture, and sustainability, set in a beautiful natural location.

Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself (and if relevant, also your family members)?

We are Carlos Díaz and Sofía Tejerina, the founders of Solo Palacio. I, Carlos, have dedicated over a decade to environmental protection, having worked as the Chief Sustainability Officer for a German multinational. Sofía is an award-winning designer, and in 2024, she won the Laus Prize for the best mid-sized business design in Spain for Solo Palacio. We are based in Madrid, Spain, but our hearts are deeply tied to the palace and the natural park that surrounds it.

We would love to share a bit about you as a person with our customers. Would you like to tell us more about yourself?

I, Carlos, have been passionate about environmental protection for many years. Sofía, who loves architecture and art, has earned recognition for her design work. We both share an interest in sustainability and creating spaces that connect with nature. These values are reflected in everything we do at Solo Palacio.

When and in what way did this property come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

Our journey began when we discovered a 14th-century building for sale in the heart of the Las Ubiñas Natural Park. We were immediately drawn to its potential to merge architectural beauty with our environmental vision. It felt like the perfect place to bring our dream of sustainability and historical preservation to life.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

The renovation process took over two years and involved a dedicated team of 22 full-time workers. Since the building is a protected heritage site, we had to use traditional techniques and materials from the 15th century. We even trained stonemasons to use historical methods to ensure we preserved the building's authenticity while restoring it.

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any standout memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

For me, Sofía, the most special aspect of Solo Palacio is our embrace of the wabi-sabi philosophy. This Japanese concept values the beauty of imperfection and simplicity. From the materials we chose to the lighting and color schemes, everything reflects this philosophy. It has made the property feel deeply personal and meaningful to us.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

We see Solo Palacio as a place where time enhances beauty. The wabi-sabi philosophy is central to our design, accepting imperfections while always striving for improvement. We believe that age makes materials more beautiful, just as it makes people more beautiful if they are good. It’s about embracing time and the process of continual growth.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

Our infinity pool is definitely a highlight for us. It reflects the surrounding natural park, creating a seamless connection between the building and the wilderness. Being at the top of the mountain with uninterrupted views of nature is something truly unique.

What makes the location where your accommodation is located unique and special?

The location is special because Solo Palacio sits at the top of a mountain in the heart of a natural park. There are no other houses visible from the property, only the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscape. It’s the perfect place for those who want to truly escape and immerse themselves in nature.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

We are very proud that 100% of our profits go toward environmental protection initiatives. We also use goats to help maintain the forests around us, reducing the risk of wildfires. These small, sustainable practices are an important part of our mission to give back to the environment.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

We wanted to create a place where people could relax, enjoy themselves, and feel pampered while also supporting our environmental projects. We love making our guests happy, and many of them are so inspired by our mission that they choose to donate to the project beyond their stay.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

Guests at Solo Palacio can expect a truly special experience. They often enjoy three main highlights: a Michelin-star dinner at our bistro, Solo X Monte, indulging in our wellness space (which includes a rotating cold infinity pool, warm outdoor jacuzzi, and hot sauna), and savoring our World-Class cocktails. These elements, combined with the tranquil surroundings, make for an unforgettable stay.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

Solo Palacio stands out because we’re in a 15th-century palace, located in the heart of a natural park. Guests enjoy a Michelin-star dining experience, World-Class mixology, and a serene, wabi-sabi atmosphere. Additionally, 100% of our profits go towards environmental protection, which makes every guest’s stay contribute to a greater cause.

Can you share the best compliment you've received from a guest?

One of the best compliments we’ve received is, “This is the most beautiful place I’ve ever visited in my life.” It’s incredibly rewarding to hear that our guests feel that way.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay in your accommodation?

We hope that guests remember how much we truly care about their happiness and comfort. We do everything we can to ensure that they have an unforgettable experience, and that they leave with a sense that they’ve been genuinely cared for.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday?

To fully enjoy their stay, we recommend taking advantage of our winning trio: the Michelin-star dinner, the wellness space, and the World-Class cocktails. We also have incredible hiking routes and other outdoor activities like speleology, which guests can enjoy to fully explore the beauty of the surrounding nature.