Our final night in Azerbaijan was spent in Sheki at the Sheki Palace Hotel, which had a great location: a short, albeit steep uphill walk from the must-see Summer Palace of Sheki Khan and Caravanserai, or travellers inn.
Despite its grand exterior, room 206 felt old fashioned and had seen slightly better days. However, the bed was comfortable, and although there were bedside tables, there were no sockets. The room also had a TV, fridge, complimentary water, tea and coffee making facilities, desk and stool, chair and coffee table. The wardrobe had just two hangers and no shelves, but there was a safe and slippers.
The small bathroom had a basin and loo. The shower over the bath didn’t work and, on running water for bath night, water gushed from the mixer tap at an alarming rate. Complimentary toiletries were available in plastic bottles.
The landing had lots of communal space and large old fashioned brown and beige armchairs, but in contrast the lift looked new and modern.
On the positive side, a terrace bar had good service with lovely views, and on arrival we enjoyed a couple of beers and a portion of dolma which came with yoghurt and a huge basket of bread. We also watched the sunset over a G&T aperitif before heading into town for dinner.
Breakfast was served in a restaurant which can only be reached by going outside but fortunately it wasn’t raining. Having indulged in a hefty meal at a local restaurant the night before, we hardly touched the usual buffet selection.
Having checked the website on return, I realise I could have ‘Indulged for free at Zogal Spa’s Sauna, Turkish Bath and steam room with half-Olympic indoor pool’. It was a shame no one thought to mention this to us.