32
Madrid
Give me the lowdown: Sitting at the place where two streets converge – steps from Kilómetro Cero, the point from which all distances in Spain are measured – Four Seasons Madrid opened in 2020 following a seven-year project to restore seven landmark buildings. The sprawling site is a beacon of warm hospitality that’s as much a hangout for locals as it is visitors.
Art attack: While it may reside within heritage confines, the hotel approaches its design aesthetic with devotion to contemporary and emerging Spanish artists. Some 1,500 pieces of work – including sculptures, photography and installations – adorn the public areas. It’s all curated by Paloma Fernández-Iriondo whose chosen pieces flit from the traditional, to the whimsical and the sublime. Each room features a catalogue, with the option to contact artists direct, should something take your fancy.
Take me to the top floor: Tastemaker Martin Brudnizki is behind the rooftop design, which houses chef Dani García’s Spanish brasserie and bar. Patterns and vibrant colour pops are emblematic, while greenery frames the scene. The space spreads outside, giving way to jaw-dropping panoramas of the capital beyond. On the food front, a standout buffet breakfast is the star of the show, while lunch and dinner showcase regional Spanish flavours.
Tell me more: The 200 chic bedrooms are generously sized and kitted out with all mod-cons – a fridge stocked with jamón Ibérico and local vermouth is a nice touch. The four-storey spa – Madrid’s largest – comes with a glass-roofed pool and outdoor relaxation area. Eclectic pan-Asian restaurant Isa hosts live music and a cocktail bar that’s already vying among Madrid’s best. Bonus points go to the staff, who showcase an attentive, pre-emptive and unstuffy approach to service.
Location. Location. Location: When it comes to exploring the city, this hotel is in a prime position. A quick stroll will take you to the verdant Retiro Park with its Crystal Palace and nearby art galleries like Reina Sofía, Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza. Duck down a side street and you’ll find yourself in the Barrio de las Letras, home to cool coffee shops, historic tapas joints that have stood the test of time and Diego Cabera’s drinking dens Viva Madrid and Salmon Guru, the latter of which sits at No.16 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 list. The hauntingly evocative flamenco shows at Teatro Real are also within striking distance.