What’s the deal?

Spain’s very first JW Marriott – its 10th in Europe – firmly plants the flag for the brand in the very heart of the capital, just a five-minute walk from the Puerta del Sol. The hotel opened this March after a four-year renovation of a 19th-century building, which once housed one of the city’s oldest perfumers.

The refurb, by New York’s Rockwell Group, retained plenty of the original architecture. This includes elegant wrought-iron elements, seen in the pillars which extend throughout the ground floor of the property and a beautiful internal staircase. The basement spa and wellness centre are seemingly hewn out of the brick foundations, a charming mix of classic and modern.

Why stay?

The warm, calming professionalism of the hotel service is mirrored in its interior design, which draws from a sunshine palette of cream, orange, gold and touches of marble. Rooms look out over the bustle of Madrid life, while offering a retreat from the city enhanced by the relaxing Aromatherapy Associates amenities.

Don’t miss

The hotel’s single restaurant, Qú by Mario Sandoval, showcases modern Spanish cuisine. Highlights are his signature suckling pig – crisp and unctuous – and a wonderfully light lemon meringue. And make time for a long, lazy breakfast before you check out.