Background

The hotel was opened in 1910 with royal guests King Alfonsos XIII of Spain who was behind the hotel’s opening, and his wife Queen Victoria Eugenia. Designed by architect Charles Mewes, the hotel boasts Belle Epoch influences, encompasses history of hosting royalty, leading politicians, celebrities, and guests. The hotel was monumental in putting Madrid on the map of affluent cities in Europe. The Spanish king wanted Spain’s first luxury hotel to be on par with luxury hotels that he saw around Europe. So, he convinced aristocratic friends to invest and the Ritz Development Company purchased the land and the hotel was built. Passing through the hands of various owners, it was Mandarin Oriental who acquired Hotel Ritz in 2015 in a joint venture with the Olayan Group.

What’s it like?

Green and off-white creams describe the color around the hotel. The hotel is sequesterd behind trees, as the magnificent edifice of the hotel can’t be missed once you’re on Pl. de la Lealtad. The Belle Époque era is referenced throughout the Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid, with the windows and iron work. It’s a getaway and an opportunity to relax in the heart of Madrid. What stands out the most is the staff and their Spanish warmth and hospitality to ensure that guests are taken care of.

Where is it?

Located in the center of Madrid, it sits next to the Prado Museum that’s renowned for its visual art and sculptures. It’s also next to the Thyssen-Bornemiza Museum and the Madrid Stock Exchange. At the entrance to the Castellana, a long and wide boulevard where Spain’s financial institutions sit, so it’s normal for business events to be conducted at the hotel. Within walking distance is the Park Retiro, a large and glamorous park. Gran Via is close by where you can shop and get lost in picturesque side streets.

Rooms

There are 153 guestrooms and suites. Superior rooms start at 2,600 aed per night. With a courtyard view and warm colors and oak floors what’s not to love. The Junior Suite is spacious and comes with two windows allowing a lot of light, as well as a living area with a sofa. Starting at 5,000 aed per night rooms have a creamy color palette and an inviting décor. But if you’re willing to splurge The Turret Suite has not only a very spacious bedroom, but also a large and hospitable circular living room. A large bathtub and marble bathroom will have you spending time in the bathroom. These rooms start at 13,398 aed per night and overlook the garden, square, or Prado Museum. The Royal Suite Two Bedroom of 228 SQM offers views of the Ritz Garden and the Prado Museum. A living room with a large dining area and pantry, located in a turret, with a calm master bedroom and a spa style bedroom is ultimate luxury.

Food and Drink

Pictura is the hotel bar that makes delectable virgin drinks. It has a historic feel that’s modern yet timeless. In the late afternoon you can sit with friend(s) while listening to live jazz music. Breakfast is served in the hotel Dining Room, which includes a buffet of fruits, cheese, breads, cold cuts, and veggies. Ordering American or British-style breakfast is possible, as well as a Continental or the Ritz and Royal Breakfast. El Jardin del Ritz is open all year with warm outdoor heating in the winter. With a courtyard feel as the bustle of Madrid passes by, you can dine on tapas like Spanish croquetas, or tortilla de patata (a Spanish omelet with potato). Entrees include creamy spider crab served in its shell with trout roes, or hot ramen with “cocido madrileño” and vegetables. There are also fish and meat options, and to-die-for desserts like roasted pineapple glazed with vanilla molasses and coconut ice cream- or crispy palm topped with guanaja chocolate mousse with 70% cocoa. Deessa is a great dining spot in the hotel under chef Quique Dacosta. With one Michelin star, you find dishes that are historical and unique. If you’re wanting a more private dining option then room service offers great tapas like Spanish croquetas and tomato and onion salad- or hummus with vegetables- or even various types of caviar. There are fish, meat, and chicken options, as well as hamburgers and the club sandwich. The ratte potato purée is the best melt in your mouth mashed potatoes you will ever try.

Leisure

The spa is located on the -2 level where you’ll find a fully-equipped fitness facility by Technogym that is open 24 hours a day, a vitality pool, an indoor swimming pool, showers, a steam room, and treatment room. Treatments can be bespoke holistic therapies that are designed by The Beauty Concepto. Body rituals like the Deep Tissue Massage, Jet Lag, Mindfulness Massage, and Calm and De-Stress Massage offer relaxation and body renewal. And don’t miss out on the indoor swimming pool. Set at the right temperature you’ll be able to swim or relax in one of the surrounding lounge chairs.

Best for: the best 5-star luxury service in the heart of Madrid.

Don’t miss: virgin cocktails and jazz in Pictura. 

Price: Rooms start at $707 per night.

Contact: Plaza de la Lealtad, 5, 28014 Madrid