A five star hotel in Madrid that feels like home
Nestled in a chic yet not touristy corner of central Madrid, URSO Hotel & Spa is the perfect combination of opulence and comfort. A boutique hotel that is glamorous enough to feel special, but also manages to retain a velvety feeling of intimacy.
The moment you step through the somewhat unassuming front door the welcome is warm and genuine, even if you arrive looking and feeling a little bedraggled as we did, at the end of a seven-hour long road trip. The staff didn’t miss a beat and we were checked in and happily settled within minutes.
Indeed, though unmistakeably five star, URSO is far from snooty and the service from the staff is amongst the best I’ve ever experienced. Nothing was too much trouble. There were easy smiles all round at all times and a real interest in making sure we had everything we needed to enjoy our stay.
The rooms are plush and elegant with comfortable beds and spacious bathrooms. And the suites are particularly spectacular, featuring a modern vintage aesthetic and gorgeous outdoor terraces with timber floorboards and comfy furniture perfect for soaking up the Spanish sunshine.
The subtle entry to the Hotel URSO in Madrid. (Photo: Supplied)
Once you’ve settled into your room, head back to the lobby and if it’s still afternoon then order one of their indulgent signature hot chocolates flavoured with either chili, cinnamon, orange or rum. Don’t forget to get a plate or two of the freshly cooked churros on the side for dipping.
Stick around and you might catch one of the live piano evenings hosted in the lobby several times a week. This is best enjoyed with a crisp martini, or ask the barmen to recommend a cocktail especially for you. Pair it with some tapas, such as the golden nugget-like ham croquetas and a plate of spectacular Cantabrian anchovies, and snuggle into one of the vast sofas to enjoy the performance. Then head next door to the hotel’s restaurant Media Racion for a feast of baked hake with spinach, crab and tomato or grilled beef tenderloin with chimichurri, all washed down with a bottle of rioja.
The next morning take your time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the light-filled conservatory, where you can pick from an elegant and extensive buffet and order something from the a la carte menu, such as the luxurious eggs benedict.
But don’t fill up too much because a visit to the hotel’s spa is a must.
Located down in the basement, this small but excellent wellness space is a gift for weary travellers, especially if you’ve just stepped off a long haul flight. Book ahead for one of their signature treatments (such as their ‘Diamond sublime’ massage and facial) or just take your time swimming in the lap pool and steaming in the hammam.
Visit the website for the URSO Madrid here.
