Discovering Axel Hotels: A Haven for LGBTQ Travellers
Anthony T. Eaton reports from his trip to Spain.
By Anthony T. Eaton
As part of a journey across Northern Spain, I had the pleasure of staying at two unique properties in the Axel Hotels family—one in Madrid, the other in San Sebastián. Before this trip, the Axel brand was unfamiliar to me, but my travel companion Stephen, who had done his research, introduced me to their tagline: “We are hetero-friendly.” It immediately stood out—not just as a promise of inclusivity, but as an invitation to be seen, celebrated, and completely at ease.
“They say there is no greater freedom than traveling the world untethered... Where we can celebrate with other people that we exist, that we co-exist, and that we are living the life we want to live.”
—From the Axel Hotels website
That spirit of freedom is woven into every corner of Axel Hotels, which have become sanctuaries for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking more than just a place to stay. Founded in Barcelona in 2003, Axel Hotels was envisioned as a safe, stylish, and welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community—though everyone is welcome. With locations now across Europe, the brand has built a reputation for inclusive luxury paired with bold design and local flair.
First Stop: Madrid. Our arrival in Madrid was seamless. Despite the sprawling Madrid-Barajas Airport and our limited Spanish, a friendly taxi driver soon had us heading into the heart of the city. Our destination: Axel Hotel Madrid, tucked into a historic building at Atocha 49, just a short walk from the vibrant Chueca neighborhood.
Chueca isn’t just Madrid’s LGBTQ+ epicenter—it’s one of the most dynamic queer neighborhoods in Europe. Known for its lively nightlife, inclusive energy, and progressive culture, Chueca hosts one of the world’s largest Pride celebrations each July. Rainbow flags flutter year-round, and the sense of belonging is tangible. Here, drag shows, tapas bars, fashion boutiques, and open expressions of love live side by side in perfect harmony.
Axel Madrid was a perfect extension of that spirit. We arrived earlier than expected, but to our delight, our rooms were ready. Sleek and stylish, mine featured bold colors, plush linens, and a neon sign over the bed that simply read “Roar.” Stephen’s room was similar, though his neon message was different another touch of individuality in a hotel that knows how to speak to its guests.
The rooftop bar and pool, with panoramic views of Madrid, were a highlight. The vibe? Chic, social, and relaxed. And when we asked the front desk about LGBTQ+ nightlife, a staff member pulled out a city map and enthusiastically marked the best clubs and bars to explore. It's the kind of guidance that makes a place feel like home even when you're thousands of miles away.
After a luxurious five-day ride aboard the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo train, we arrived in San Sebastián smaller, quieter, and stunningly beautiful. Axel Hotel San Sebastián, our next stop, was a modern retreat just a short stroll from La Concha Beach and the city’s historic Old Town.
Unlike its bold Madrid sibling, this Axel property felt calm and coastal. The design was sleek and understated, with a nod to the sea and the city’s fishing heritage. Our room was a haven of minimalist elegance—a reflection of San Sebastián itself.
While the city doesn’t have an LGBTQ+ district like Chueca, it quietly supports its queer community with progressive attitudes and a small but growing scene. Local LGBTQ+ organizations like Gehitu play a vital role in advocacy and visibility, and the city proudly hosts its own Pride events. San Sebastián is more reserved, yes but it’s also inclusive, welcoming, and evolving.
Our time here was spent strolling the bayfront promenade, exploring winding streets, sipping wine while a sudden rainstorm passed, and savoring a phenomenal dinner at Cortázar Donostia. Every bite rivaled the Michelin-star meals we'd had earlier in our trip. San Sebastián offered a slower, more reflective pace yet no less magical.
What stood out across both properties was the warmth and authenticity of the Axel staff. In Madrid, the atmosphere was lively and electric; in San Sebastián, more intimate and serene. In both, we felt genuinely welcomed—not just as guests, but as part of a larger, shared experience.
While we couldn’t book the Axel property in Barcelona for the final leg of our trip (a testament to its popularity), both hotels left lasting impressions. Madrid stole my heart with its unapologetic celebration of identity, while San Sebastián gave me space to exhale, reflect, and recharge.
For LGBTQ+ travelers looking for more than just a place to sleep, Axel Hotels offer something rare: a home away from home where joy, safety, and community are part of the check-in experience.
Whether you're drawn to the pulsing nightlife of Chueca or the quiet charm of a coastal Basque city, Axel is ready to welcome you just as you are. To book a room at one of the Axel Hotel properties visit their website at https://www.axelhotels.com
Anthony T. Eaton is a freelance writer whose work has been featured in online and print publications around the world.
The NSFW edition
If you want to admire some man-on-man action, our NSFW edition gives you every inch.
Sign in and check out our NSFW content - it's free!
Gaydar
