Photography: The Westin Palace
The Westin Palace Madrid
Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop
Set the scene
As you stride through the grand revolving doors of the Westin Palace Hotel, the palatial opulence envelops you, radiating an irresistible charm that few places in Madrid possess. Steeped in early 20th-century elegance, the magnificent rotunda lobby—with its exquisite crystal dome and ornate architecture—appears almost frozen in times gone by, subtly infused with modern luxury.
Ascending the marble staircase reveals an ensemble of artistic masterpieces adorning the walls, while gilded accents playfully catch the warm Spanish light. Then, as dusk descends, delightful chatter fill the opulent salons, where Madrid's glitterati gather, sipping delicate flutes of Champagne beneath sparkling chandeliers, crafting memories within the Westin Palace's hallowed halls.
What can we expect in our room?
Each room is equipped with the Westin's trademarked Heavenly Bed - a plush, pillowtop mattress draped in the finest Egyptian cotton sheets and a down duvet.
Beyond the bed, the room unfurls into a spacious, well-lit sanctuary. You'll find a generously sized desk for your work needs, a minibar stocked with a variety of drinks, and a sleek, modern bathroom complete with premium toiletries. The hotel understands the importance of maintaining a connection with the outside world, hence you'll also find high-speed internet access made conveniently available in each room.
How about the food and drinks?
Featuring a delicious mix of local and international dishes, the La Rotonda restaurant offers the perfect venue for a lavish breakfast, lunch, or dinner under a breathtaking stained-glass dome. The opulent setting and tranquil ambiance make it an ideal choice for both business meetings and romantic dinners. The restaurant also organizes a famous Opera & Brunch on Sundays, adding a touch of uniqueness to your eating experience.
For those with a preference for Asian cuisine, the Asia Gallery provides an exquisite selection of Chinese delicacies, enabling you to embark on an Asian flavor journey right in the heart of Madrid. And when the day is shedding its light, do make it a point to step into the 1912 Museo Bar. The cocktail menu at this iconic, Hemingway-favorite Madrid bar boasts of classic and contemporary cocktails, each masterfully crafted by skilled bartenders intent on elevating your drinking experience.
What is the service like
Committed to segmenting a seamless experience for all guests, attention is given to the smallest detail, which defines their professional service. Be it a request for room service, needing directions, organizing rides, booking city tours or procuring tickets for an opera at the Royal Theatre next door, they are diligent, efficient, and more than willing to assist.
The concierge, with their knowledge and readiness, aid in crafting a perfect itinerary keeping in mind your preferences. Personalized, friendly, yet non-invasive service, the passionate and committed staff indeed play a significant role in making your stay at the Westin Palace a memorable one.
What’s the neighbourhood scene like?
The hotel truly sits at the epicenter of Madrid's bustling life, overlooking the famed art collectives - the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. Navigating further, you will find the hotel in close proximity to the animated Retiro Park - Madrid's green oasis, offering chief avenues to bike, jog, or simply relish a tranquil picnic under the Spanish sun. The boutique-lined streets of the posh Salamanca district and the central Sol/Gran Via, known for their stylish retail corners as well as vibrant nightlife options, are just a stroll away.
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What’s the backstory
The Westin Palace Hotel has a rich and illustrious history that dates back to its opening in 1912. It was the brainchild of King Alfonso XIII who wished to have a royal hotel defining Madrid's skyline, thereby commissioning the project.
Over the decades, the Westin Palace has witnessed many poignant moments in history. During the Spanish Civil war, the hotel transformed into a hospital, providing care to the wounded soldiers. From hosting grand balls of aristocracy to the whispers of clandestine meetings, the hotel echoes stories that are as fascinating as the city itself.
Price Range of The Westin Palace Madrid
Room rates range broadly depending on season and room type. The cheapest rooms, which are still vast and lavishly comfortable, can start at around 200 Euros per night. On the other end of the spectrum, the royal suites, oozing sheer opulence and offering breathtaking city views, can reach upwards of 1,500 Euros per night.
Aside from your accommodation, you'll also want to factor in the cost of indulging in the hotel's renowned dining and spa facilities, as these are separate from the room price.
Amenities & Facilities
The Westin Palace boasts of an expansive fitness center equipped with state-of-the-art machinery for those who wish to keep up with their fitness routines. Also noteworthy is the on-site spa offering various pampering treatments designed to refresh your tired spirit. With a 24-hour business center, the hotel ensures it caters to the needs of every guest, be it leisure or business. Element of fun and relaxation is also visible with live music in the bar, or the opportunity to indulge in high tea in the stately lounge.
How to get to the hotel
After you've touched down at Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport, you have a few transport options to get to the prestigious Westin Palace Hotel. One of the most convenient would be hopping onto the Express Airport Bus at T1, T2 or T4 terminals. This shuttle operates 24 hours, at 15-20 minute intervals during the day and 35 minutes past midnight. Alight at the Atocha Train station stop, where you'll be a mere five-minute stroll away from the hotel. It costs approximately five euros for a trip that is typically between 30-40 minutes barring any traffic.
However, if speed and comfort are higher on your priority list, a taxi journey from the airport to the Westin Palace can be an excellent alternative. Taxi fares from the airport are fixed at 30 euros, which you'll find to be quite reasonable for the 20 minute journey.
What Customers Have To Say
The food is superb—even afternoon tea is offered! You must enjoy sitting underneath the stained-glass dome.
Great front office and concierge service
Really bad Breakfast & Restaurant service
I prefer cheap tapas place for breakfast rather than this bad service
Lots of food to choose from
Friendly staff
Ahora están en refacción sus famosos vitrales, así que el ingreso es por la puerta que da a Neptuno.
Pero lo que se mantiene es la calidez y profesionalismo de su personal. Difícil hacer una lista de todo el equipo tras esa excelencia en el servicio.
Desde Alberto Bermudez en la recepción, un caballero de los de antes, que te da la primera impresión de lo que es el summun de la hosteleria. Ruben en el ingreso, siempre atento desde que te acercas al hotel por la calle. Cristal en la atención del desayuno, donde tenía mi mesa 39 bien dispuesta para disfrutar de los omelet de Oscar, heroico trabajando en un espacio pequeño para su gran altura como chef y siempre con una sonrisa.
El botones Valenciano que me ayudó tanto con sus recomendaciones para visitar su tierra. No supe su nombre pero en el bar siempre presente un caballero mayor infatigable en el servicio a toda hora. También en el restaurante un mesero de primera, resolvió de inmediato un impasse con una mesera, brindándonos una atención impecable.
Hay muchos que escapan a mi memoria de este equipo humano que te brindan una atención soberbia.
Espero volver cuando estén reinstalados los vitrales.
Contact:
Address: Pl. de las Cortes, 7, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Phone: +34 913 60 80 00
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.