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MADRID
Sitting within one of Madrid's most vibrant, arts-driven neighbourhoods, Gran Hotel Inglés is a luxurious respite away from the crowds, yet since smack bang in the middle of all the good stuff. Nearby, along the narrow streets, guests will find some of the most buzzing tapas joints and chic boutiques to get a groove of this upbeat location. But beyond the modern offerings, it's also filled with historic landmarks that once housed writers from the 16th century from Cervantes to Lope de Vega. The hotel itself is honoured as the oldest hotel in Madrid with a rich history that dates back to 1886. Following its art-deco-styled revamp in 2018, the upscale boutique hotel has been touted as one of the most reputed urban hideaways pleasing the most affluent guests. We checked in to the historic gem for a one-night stay.
Tucked away on Barrio de Las Letras, a street with glorious literary and theatrical heritage, you can easily take a light walk to nearby renowned cultural landmarks, check out the famously ambient nightlife or opt for some retail therapy. The hotel welcomes at check-in with its selection of bubbly champagne to start the stay right. Staff are friendly and informative, offering local tips on the best eats and things to do around the city.
The feeling is intimate and the hotel houses 48 rooms, spanning across 10 rooms types. An opulent art deco interior is consistent throughout – from the dark timber hardwood floor to the bronze furnishings and padded leather wall, designed by David Rockwell. We stayed in the Preferential Room, a 33-square-metre space divided into three sections – the bedroom and lounge, working area, and bathroom. There were also two balconies.
We were pleasantly surprised with the personal touches upon arrival – a bottle of champagne and cake arrived while we are out, with a sweet note wishing the best for my plus-one's birthday which we hadn't mentioned (the front house staff are lovingly attentive while checking in).
Image courtesy of Yoyo Ho | CSP Times
The bathroom was bright and airy, decked in luxurious white marble. The freestanding bathtub was the highlight, equipped with L'Occitane aromatic soap and moisturisers to unwind and nourish both the mind and body.
Image courtesy of Yoyo Ho | CSP Times
Meals are served at the hotel's Casa Lobo, a restaurant helmed by two-Michelin-starred chef Fernando P. Arellano. The restaurant hosts only 10 groups of guests at a time.
We had dinner at the restaurant and tried traditional Spanish cuisine and Mediterranean dishes. If you are feeling adventurous, local must-tries include the Iberico ham croquettes, pan-fried suckling pig ears and Madrid-style beef tripes. A cult favourite starter is the Josper-grilled octopus pieces – perfectly grilled and seasoned with romesco sauce on the side. We were also recommended to try the beef tongue steak with onion confit and capers – which was thoroughly tender and smooth – and Atlantic Ocean bass fillet. The latter was slightly undercooked, keeping it from perfect, which the cherry tomato and olive sauce made up for.
Image courtesy of Yoyo Ho | CSP Times
Enjoy breakfast with its selection of cold plates – from world-renowned Spanish cured ham and cheeses, to local fruits and freshly-baked pastries. Breakfast staples include egg benedict, American pancakes and more. We opt for the French toast (kindly recommended by our front house agent upon check-in) and 100% Arabica coffee with tea.
Once the oldest hotel, Gran Hotel Inglés now offers a heritage-meet-contemporary boutique hideaway on a tranquil street within Madrid. With its state-of-the-art amenities and elegant interiors, amplified by its top-notch hospitality, this hotel brings you an experience that is memorable and authentic.
Gran Hotel Inglés, Echegaray 8, 28014 Madrid, Spain, +34 91 360 00 01
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