MADRID BELLE ÉPOQUE: MANDARIN ORIENTAL RITZ

La Belle Époque, a time period during which art, science and technology advanced at a steady pace, bringing some of humanity’s most iconic moments with it, is an era sorely missed by most after the historic happenings of the early 20^th century. Traversing the halls of an epoque building might just scratch that itch for peace and progress, and the Mandarin Orienal Ritz Madrid is the place to do so in Spain.

Reopening as the Mandarin Oriental Ritz in 2021, the Ritz Madrid has hosted some of the world’s most distinguished personalities and dignitaries for over 110 years. Its 100 rooms and 53 suites offer a spacious living space decorated with a classic, contemporary feel and a soothing colour palette. Overlooking the Prado Museum in front of the Hotel, most rooms enjoy a privileged view of Madrid’s impressive urban design.

The Superior, Deluxe and Mandarin Rooms offer abundant living space with sizes ranging between 29 and 49 square metres, with elegant furnishings coffee-coloured wood floors and white moulding. All rooms feature a state-of-the-art entertainment system and high speed WiFi. The 53 suites offer a wide range of accommodation options. The Junior Suite occupies 49 square metres, with a private bedroom and windows overlooking the inner, sun-drenched courtyard. The Premiere Junior Suite has views to the Lealtad Square of Prado Museum, with deco inspired by the Madrid essence. The newest additions to the Hotel are the Mandarin and Ritz Suites, on the turrets, which offer a distinct way of experiencing luxury, complete with private balconies, applications of mica, a mineral with golden mother of pearl reflections and outstanding views. All bathrooms are coated in Greek dolomite and all leather applications come directly from Córdoba, which elevates the details. The Royal and Presidential Suites are the largest in the Hotel, with privileged views and distinct living, dining, cooking and room spaces. Other suites include the Palm Court, the Park, the Prado, and Turret Suites.

The Mandarin Oriental Ritz houses five dining outlets under the direction of Spanish chef Quique Dacosta, who has been awarded five Michelin stars for two of his restaurants. Deessa, the signature restaurant, offers mouth-watering flavours in the Alfonso XIII room and a unique Show Kitchen, as well as an open terrace setting for the warmer months.

The Palm Court, sheltered under a stunning glass dome, offers two additional dining destinations. Light lunch, continental breakfast, afternoon tea and light dining are served at Hall Alto, while the Hall Bajo offers a relaxed bistro concept that serves classic Ritz dishes with a contemporary twist. Pictura, the Hotel’s bar, serves an extensive cocktail menu with tapas and artisanal beers that will entice the senses. The Champagne Bar, near Hall Bajo, creates a refined atmosphere, while El Jardín del Ritz serves al fresco drinks and seasonal dining.

A new state-of-the-art wellness centre helps guests escape urban life with an indoor swimming pool, vitality pool, experience showers and a full fitness centre. The wellness centre also offers exclusive treatments based on personalization which help guests achieve their best physical, emotional and mental state. Deep-tissue massages, facials and pedicure services are available to relax and ease the body and soul.

As a staple in world-class diplomatic events, the Ritz also offers top banqueting and meeting facilities, where grand events have taken place. Oversized windows and a rich decoration which opens to the Prado Museum, the Royal Ballroom seats up to 160 banquet guests and up to 400 cocktail guests, making it the ideal spot for events, parties, launches, meetings, and fashion shows. The Salón Felipe IV and Salón Real were recently restored to provide the most exclusive venues for business meetings, social functions, and special announcements. High ceilings, large windows and cutting-edge audio-visual equipment house up to 180 cocktail guests in the Felipe IV.

With strict dress and behaviour codes, the Ritz ensures a distinguished stay and an elevated atmosphere for all of its guests, making it into the ideal space to discover new heights of luxury and elegance. Located in the Golden Triangle of Art, everything about the Mandarin Oriental Ritz shines with the aura of the Belle Époque.

Photos: courtesy.