Hotel Wellington

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?Regal and old school, the Wellington is the sort of hotel that will appeal to traditionalists. As you enter, you can't help but bring down your conversation a notch and stand up a little straighter. While other grand dames have weaved a few modern touches into their repertoire, this place is proud to cling to its historic heritage. What's the backstory?Near El Retiro Park in the posh district of Salamanca, this hotel has operated for almost three quarters of a century. Over time, it has mastered its craft and impressed the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Gene Kelly, Matt Damon, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, and the Spanish royal family. Tell us about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Modern Executive rooms have tall cushioned headboards and Egyptian cotton linens and duvets. Avoid the Classic and larger pool-view Superior rooms—they haven’t been renovated to the same standard as other categories. Grand Premium rooms, meanwhile, are part of the Wellington Club, which comes with access to a private lounge with free breakfast and evening drinks. For suites, the Luxury Suite is the most impressive, with a Hästens handmade mattress, comped airport transfers, and a terrace with killer views from the sixth floor. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?The room rate includes Wifi. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Kabuki, a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant, draws plenty of acclaim from tourists and locals. For Basque fare, Goizeko’s tasting menu isn’t cheap, but it will appeal to adventurous palates. There’s also a rooftop vegetable garden, which guests can peruse, and then taste as they work their way through the hotel's dining outlets. In warmer weather, bring your sunglasses and enjoy tapas on the terrace. And the service?Formal, polished, and buttoned-up. What type of travelers will you find here?The guest list skews older here. If you’re enamored with the finest porcelain or frilly service, this is your place. What about the neighborhood?Salamanca, a shopper’s paradise, is perfect for those with a keen interest on staying in a fashionable neighborhood. It’s a cinch to make it to El Retiro Park for a morning jog, and the neighborhood has exceptional—albeit not cheap—dining. Is there anything you'd change?Once all the rooms are renovated to the same standard, even the lowest category will be a cut above. Any other hotel features worth noting?Ask to borrow one of the hotel’s bikes to cycle around the park. Better yet, climb to the top floor to explore Madrid’s largest rooftop garden. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?Come to be pampered the traditional way. It’s an expense-account kind of place with exceptional service from start to finish." - Ramsey Qubein