URSO Hotel & Spa

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? Urso Hotel & Spa Madrid seems like the kind of place that flies under the radar. Even the public spaces are bastions of design without being too showy, as if the hotel isn't looking for attention—even if it's a quiet favorite among a sophisticated and well-traveled clientele. What's the backstory? The building's rich architectural history lives on in the form of stained glass panels, original azulejo tiles, and other preserved details. If you want to take a deeper look into the previous tenants and how the neighborhood has progressed, look no further than the series of photos displayed throughout the hotel's public areas. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? Colorful tartan headboards may throw you for a second when you enter the otherwise beige-and-brown rooms. There are also large windows; area rugs covering the hardwood floors; made-in-Spain leather-topped desks and bathroom toiletries; and blackout curtains. Splurge for a Junior Suite, which has a four-poster bed and private terrace; the Urso Suite Terrace has even more outdoor space. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? There's fast and free WiFi. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? The dining options range from The Conservatory, the bright atrium restaurant that serves breakfast, to the posh Champagne Bar. Media Ración is the main outlet; its name means “half portion," a nod to the notion of sharing dishes with your dinner mates. And the service? The staff remembers special requests. Cappuccino with sugar? Coming right up. What type of travelers will you find here? Business travelers and vacationers with cash to spare. As a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the hotel now partners with World of Hyatt so that guests can earn and redeem points for a stay. As a result, American accents are becoming more common. What about the neighborhood? This isn't a walk-out-the-front-door type of tourist hotel, but it won’t take long to reach Calle Fuencarral and the lively Chueca neighborhood. Keep going a little farther and you’ll hit Gran Vía and Puerta del Sol. Any other hotel features worth noting? Borrow one of the hotel’s bikes to do a little impromptu sightseeing. That wine cork you receive upon check-in can be traded in for a glass of wine with some tapas in the bar. And if you really want to feel fancy, try the Diamond Dust facial in the spa. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? Distinctive and refined, this hotel delivers a solid experience without too much fuss." - Ramsey Qubein