I just returned from a stay at El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. The property served as a Carmelite convent for over 250 years before being purchased by a member of the Woolworth family in 1959 with plans for converting it to a hotel. After renovations, it opened it’s doors as a hotel in 1962. Over the next 35 years, the property changed ownership and went through many changes. In January 1997, the new El Convento opened and immediately received awards and acclaim. The hotel is new and modern while retaining its long rich history and charm. It offers luxury in an intimate hotel with exceptional service.
Beautiful wooden doors with original tile flooring
High ceilings with
wooden beams
The hotel has 5 stories, where the lower three are original to the building. The open courtyard design features a 300+ year old nispero tree in the center. The courtyard restaurant, Patio del Nispero, is named for the tree. There are two other restaurants, a small fitness center, a rooftop plunge pool and jacuzzi, and many salons for social and business gatherings. The original chapel of the convent is a favorite for weddings.
Rooftop Garden
Interior Hallway
Interior Courtyard and Patio del Nispero Restaurant
The hotel is located right in the heart of Old San Juan. It is walking distance to shops, restaurants, bars, galleries, and more. It is across the street from one of the oldest cathedrals in the Western Hemisphere and is a few blocks from El Morro , a 400+ year old fortress.
My visit was incredible. My room was lovely with comfy double beds. We had a Juliet balcony and french doors that we kept open for sunlight and at night there was a musician playing guitar and singing in the adjacent plaza. There was a wine and cheese reception each night that was so nice to just relax on the rooftop patio for a bit before venturing out for dinner. The kids loved the pool option after a hot day of walking around town. We ate breakfast at Patio del Nispero and the food was great. The service throughout the hotel was top notch- including the nicest bellman George. I fell in love with this property!
As a member of Virtuoso, I can offer amenities when booking a stay here. These include
- Daily continental breakfast for two at Patio Del Níspero Restaurant
- Early arrival / Late check-out upon availability
- Upgrade to next category upon availability
- US $75 Food & Beverage credit at Patio del Nispero Restaurant, once per stay.
- Guests staying three or more nights also receive a additional US$50 Food & Beverage credit at Patio del Nispero Restaurant, once per stay
Kiel Travel 