Mandarin Oriental Ritz

A national landmark, the Mandarin Oriental Ritz sits in the heart of Madrid’s cultural ‘Golden Triangle of Art’, next door to the Prado Museum, across from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and close to the Reina Sofia Museum.

Commissioned by King Alfonso XIII and inspired by his stays at the Ritz Hotels in London and Paris, this Belle Époque palace opened its doors in 1910 and has hosted a century’s worth of notable guests from James Stewart and Frank Sinatra to Nelson Mandela and Madonna.

Having been carefully restored to ensure its original features and sophisticated ambience, this 110-year-old landmark now encompasses 100 rooms and 53 suites, with contemporary interiors, and subtle nods to Spanish art and culture. Parisian designers, Gilles & Boissier, employed light, nude shades, dark, wooden-floors, and soft, mood lighting to set a most refined tone. Spread across the top floor turrets, two luxurious Mandarin suites have private balconies and views of Lealtad Square and the Prado Museum.

Renowned Spanish chef, Quique Dacosta, has developed and remained at the helm of this hotel’s culinary offerings. His signature restaurant is a particular highlight, with views of the garden and hidden Chef’s Table. Traditional afternoon tea can be relished in the atmospheric Palm Court under a light-flooded glass canopy ceiling and dining in the summer months occurs on the terrace of The Ritz Garden. The Ritz Bar and Champagne Bar offer delightfully opulent settings for nursing a tipple or two.

Further reflection can take place in the heated indoor swimming pool, which is set in a marble haven of chandeliers, twinkling light features and plush loungers. The enticing list of leisure and wellness facilities extends to a steam room, a fitness centre, a treatment room, experience showers and a vitality pool.