Though gay men have a reputation for having elevated taste, that’s not always true. Not all the time, anyway (and not all of us). Our fondness for what’s chic and on-point can quickly slide away when we’re in the business of meeting other guys and getting down and dirty.
Some thoughtful hotels in Europe—maybe the most cosmopolitan continent—get the balance just right. These eight men-only or, in a few cases, straight-friendly properties will coddle your sense of style as well as your desire to meet guys, socially and otherwise. Some are urban oases located walking distance from gay nightlife, while others are playgrounds in beautiful landscapes. Either way, you may never want to leave the property. Here are our picks for gay and straight-friendly European hotels and resorts.
Languedoc Region, France
Cinq & Sept (7 Av. Henri Mas, Roujan). Each of the 10 rooms in this 200-year-old mansion, located not far from Montpellier and the Mediterranean, has its own charm—the garden suites have the best access to the clothing-optional pool, which is the property’s social hub. This gay guesthouse also hosts retreats focused on yoga, hiking, tantra and massage (not all at the same time).
Barcelona, Spain
Axel Hotel Barcelona (Carrer d’Aribau 33, L’Eixample, Barcelona). No list of saucy gay-focused properties would be complete without an Axel hotel—the brand invented the term “hetero-friendly” to emphasize that it’s welcoming to everyone, but that gay men are the main attraction. This OG property, 2003, set the Axel template. The design is Modernist Mediterranean. With 101 rooms, that’s perhaps a couple hundred guests to mix and mingle with by the rooftop pool. Even if you’re not a guest, swing by for a drink at the bar or a bite at the restaurant.
Beja District, Portugal
Lua Nua (Seladas de Cima, Santa Bárbara, Beja). This quinta (aka country estate) in southern Portugal, about a half hour’s drive from Costa Vicentina, will make you feel totally relaxed on arrival. The gay-owned men-only property is surrounded by nature, which can be best experienced while soaking in the clothing-optional pool, perhaps with a glass of Algarve wine. The three rooms are modern and minimal, the largest of which has its own private terrace. They occasionally host naked yoga retreats for men who identify as gay, bi, trans and queer.
Paris, France
Hôtel Jules & Jim (11 Rue des Gravilliers, Paris). These 23 rooms in Le Marais, Paris’ gay village, are as well-appointed and refined as the city itself. The artsy hotel occupies three buildings, one of which is an 18th-century home, surrounding a courtyard. There are whimsical touches—and great cocktails—that will make even the queeniest queen squeal with delight. Straight friendly, but only the most fashionable straight types would book here. A gym, of course.
Lisbon, Portugal
The Late Birds (Tv. André Valente 21, Lisbon). With views of the Tagus River, Ponte 25 de Abril and the roofs of the handsome Bairro Alto neighbourhood, you’ll very well want to be a late-starting bird when you stay in one of the 15 rooms at this gay urban retreat. Guests can fraternize in the garden around the pool, but unfortunately can’t go au naturel in common areas. Their Bird’s Eye service offers ideas on what to do in the Portuguese capital.
Maspalomas, Gran Canaria, Spain
Fahana (Av. de Gran Canaria 64, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Las Palmas, Gran Canaria). As you might expect in one of the world’s gayest resort destinations, Maspalomas has its fair share of accommodations dedicated to gay and bi men. Fahana stands out because a 2022 renovation has made it all sleek and modern—think white walls, cacti and wooden spiral staircases. Each of the eight rooms has a private terrace that provides access to the communal pool-and-garden area.
Italian Riviera, Italy
Villa Barca (Frazione, Via Case Soprane 25, Casanova Lerrone SV). Gays who love all things regal, take note. This 18th-century historic mansion has connections to the Italian royal family, as well as views of the Ligurian hills and the Mediterranean Sea. Gay-owned and operated, but straight friendly, this six-suite guest house finds a perfect compromise between rustic, elegant and comfortable. It’s your choice between bed and breakfast or vacation rental. There’s a saltwater infinity pool and a 17th-century chapel that has been converted into a multi-denominational room of stillness and contemplation, perfect for your yoga routine.
Hohe Tauern mountains, Austria
Hotel Nesslerhof (Unterbergstraße 50, Großarl). Billing itself as the “natureness hotel” as well as gay-friendly (but mixed), this 86-room hotel has two seasons. In the summer, it’s hiking, biking and lounging by the bathing pond. In the winter, it’s skiing and lounging by the heated pool. The woodsy alpine décor will make you feel invigorated even if you just hang around all day looking at the scenery.
Interested in a male-focused clothing-optional retreat? Check out our article on clothing-optional gay resorts.
