THE HOTEL
When it opened in 1912, The Palace was the largest hotel in Europe with 800 rooms (now 470 rooms and suites) and the first in Spain to have a bathroom and telephone in every bedroom. Famous past guests include Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Ernest Hemingway and today this five-star hotel still attracts celebrities, sportsmen and dignataries. After a two-year renovation, last year it joined Marriott’s Luxury Collection. It’s in the heart of Madrid’s Barrio de las Letras district and steps from the famous Prado Museum and the leafy Retiro Park, perfect for a stroll.
THE CHECK-IN
Two, or maybe three doormen greeted us at the entrance to the grand lobby. One insisted on helping us with our suitcase. We were checked in at the long and well-staffed reception desk then our porter escorted us to our room, answering any questions and placing our bag on the luggage stand.
THE ROOM
There are 11 room types, from standard to the Royal Suite. All have been refurbished with hand-painted wallpaper showing the trees and landscapes of El Retiro, while bathroom mosaics depict aerial views of Madrid’s Royal Botanical Gardens. Marble fireplaces, parquet flooring, chandeliers and velvet furnishings in gold, deep russet and petrol blue add to the feeling of oppulence. We were lucky to have one of 18 rooms with a bath.
THE FACILITIES
La Cúpula is a vast dining area serving Mediterreanean cuisine from breakfast until dinner. It sits around a circular bar of the same name, for tapas, cocktails and a choice of over 300 wines. On Sunday afternoons the space hosts an opera bunch. The only thing lacking is outside space, but tropical plants and a beautiful glass dome, composed of 1,875 panes of glass, give a feeling of being al fresco. A basement spa will be added next year.
THE BUSINESS
The Medinaceli Ballroom is a beautiful space (a very posh wedding took place there during our stay) and smaller meeting rooms come in all shapes and sizes, including the intimate boardroom-style Mata Hari Room. All but one have natural light.
THE VERDICT
This historic hotel has been brought back to life by a €100 million investment. Service was excellent, fellow guests were well-heeled and the location can’t be beat.
THE DETAILS
Lead-in rate for a standard room is €450, excluding breakfast.
