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Madrid is one of the few European cities that has succeeded in retaining the overwhelming charm and authenticity of its mother culture – as the Spanish are wont to do so valiantly. Indeed, they are loathe to give up their customs and you will find every endearing tradition from tantalising, antiquarian dessert shops, leisurely cafes whose patrons have become permanent fixtures, to crowded epicurean markets brimming with wine, churros and fresh seafood – all eaten standing among friends. The frenetic pace of modern life is simply something that the Spanish have chosen not to participate in, so if relaxing and recharging is the aim, allow Glass to guide you through the best spots to unwind.
Hotel Orfila
Originally a small palace, hotel Orfila has maintained all of its regal qualities and still assumes a dignified, if slightly more welcoming, air. Hidden away from the main tourist drag, Orfila is situated close to trendy streets filled with night-time tapas bars and is ideal for those seeking a more local experience. The rooms are sumptuous and grand, and the bathrooms marble-clad and embellished with gold – fit truly for a queen. The pièce de résistance, however, is the breakfast with the most perfectly poached eggs, artisanal butter and toast with the most heavenly crispness – impossible but true! (Nightly rates start from €255.)
The Ritz
Built in 1920 according to the wishes of King Alfonso XIII, the Ritz Madrid has witnessed the passing of kings, prime ministers and the stars of the golden screen. In celebration of this rich heritage and of their 100th birthday, the talented chefs at the hotel created an exquisite dining experience during the Glass visit, recreating the exact dishes that were served at the most notable events hosted by the hotel in the last 100 years, including visits from heads of state, and the hotel’s legendary New Years eve parties. The chefs regularly created themed special menus and all dishes can be accompanied with surprising but perfectly matched wines suggested by the hotel’s infallible sommelier. (Nightly rates start from €231.)
Hospes Madrid
Located in the very epicentre of Madrid, facing the iconic, Puerta de Alcalá, Hospes’ mantra of providing an oasis of calm and restorative treatments rings true here. For the ultimate roborant for the wearied body pay a visit to the hotel’s Bodyna spa and indulge in an aromatic spice scrub following a ritual from the Island of Java. The therapeutic combination of spices and sea salt alleviates sore muscles and softens the skin while energising the body. (Nightly rates start from €255.)
Villa Magna
Madrid’s award-winning Hotel Villa Magna is now more luxurious than ever and is currently offering a ‘one-of-a-kind’ exclusive package allowing guests special access to the Prado Museum, unquestionably one of the world’s treasure troves of fine art, which will open its doors for the sole use of guests for a private guide through the collections. The highlight of the experience is a gourmet dinner – complete with a performance from master musicians – all served in one of the exhibition rooms. Additionally, guests will be housed in the Royal Suite with personal butler service, a top of the range Maserati at their disposal and cava and strawberries on arrival.
(The Leading Hotels of the World “one-of-a-kind experience” starts from €10,727 per night based on two sharing. Two night minimum stay. Nightly rates start from €310.)
Gran Melia Fenix
Its magnificent location in the exclusive Salamanca neighbourhood, in the heart of the financial district and surrounded by the famous streets of Serrano, Velázquez, Goya and on the Paseo de la Castellana, allows guests to easily reach the city’s most emblematic attractions. It is only a ten-minute walk from the famous Gran Vía and the most important museums in the city. Since its opening in 1953 the hotel has welcomed the most prestigious guests including Gary Grant and the Beatles; we suggest taking any opportunity to join these impressive ranks.
(The Leading Hotels of the World, nightly rates start from €180.)
by Nicola Kavanagh