"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?BLESS Hotel Madrid is a buzzy hive of activity that's marked by the high-design glamour of bustling Salamanca. Doormen swing open glass doors to reveal an Art Deco bar and lounge with Oriental rugs, posh seating areas, Murano glass pieces, and a bevy of staffers ready to assist with directions, a drink order, or local recommendations. But you won’t recognize that this is a hotel until you find the path to reception, which is tucked away in a corner.
What's the backstory?Converted from another brand, BLESS Hotel Madrid now operates under the Palladium Hotel Group and is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. The interiors are anything but minimalist, with decorative books, framed art, and flashy accents. Overall, the vibe is eclectic, a thoughtful mishmash of lounge spaces, dining options (including Michelin-starred chef Martín Berasategui’s Etxeko), and comfortable rooms.
Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Rooms have hardwood floors with area rugs, massive beds with plump duvets, and residential touches like faux fireplaces and crown molding. All of the rooms have the word Deluxe in their title, but suffixes like Superior and Premium deliver better views and more living space. Studio Suites have clawfoot tubs; many of the larger suites—named, say, Bless Your Couture or Bless Your Divinity—have balconies and antique desks with flip-up mirrors. Mosaic-tiled bathrooms are stocked with Le Labo toiletries.
Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?WiFi is fast and free.
Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Back downstairs at Etxeko, you’ll want to plan ahead if you want a table to enjoy Martín Berasategui’s Basque cuisine. With 10 Michelin stars over the course of his career, he's probably the most celebrated Spanish chef around. This is his first outpost in Madrid. It’s not every day that a chef with such credentials manages everything from the breakfast buffet all the way to the lounge and room service menus.
And the service?Reception looks like an old-fashioned library, but the only thing you’ll want to check out here is your room key. Once you find the tucked-away front desk, you're greeted with smiles. An armoire around the corner hides all kinds of sweet treats, glasses of Cava, and fruit-infused water.
What type of travelers will you find here?A hipster retreat, this hotel appeals to Spaniards (in the bar and lounge) and tourists (checking into the rooms) alike.
What about the neighborhood?Salamanca is home to the priciest shops and some of the most expensive real estate in town. Colón and the Paseo de la Castellana are within walking distance.
Is there anything you'd change?Traditionalists will find the entrance—through the bar and lounge—a bit disjointed. Luckily, the staff keeps a watchful eye to escort hotel guests toward the back toward reception. The idea is that you immediately feel relaxed and energized by the entertainment atmosphere (DJs often set up in the lobby).
Any other hotel features worth noting?One floor below the lobby is one of the neighborhood’s most popular bars designed in New York speakeasy style; it has its own bowling lanes popular with the after-work crowd. The hotel also features virtual training in the gym and Spain’s first Acqua di Parma barber shop in house.
What's the bottom line?Prepare for something different, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised." - Ramsey Qubein
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