A firm favourite with European royalty, the Ritz was opened by King Alfonso XIII and his wife Victoria Eugene of Battenberg in 1910 to host nobility and the cream of society.
Following an all-encompassing renovation, the legendary hotel has reopened under a new name. The architects behind the refurbishment have been sure to preserve the character of the Belle Époque building, which was designed and built 110 years ago under the supervision of hotelier César Ritz. Guests can choose from 153 residential-style rooms, including 53 suites, exquisitely decorated by renowned Parisian designers Gilles & Boissier.
The refurbished hotel offers a host of new architectural features, most notably the reinstament of the original glass dome located in the centre of the building. It also has on display works of art inspired by the establishment’s strong link to the Spanish capital. In addition, guests can enjoy an indoor heated swimming pool, a vitality pool, spa showers, a steam room, and a state-of-the-art gym.
The hotel's culinary offerings have also been revamped, and now boasts two restaurants and three bars overseen by chef Quique Dacosta who has three Michelin stars under his belt: Deessa, the Ritz's main restaurant and Dacosta's signature venue which he himself manages; Palm Court, a restaurant located under the hotel’s restored glass dome and which is also the setting for the famous Afternoon Tea at the Ritz; Jardín del Ritz, an idyllic oasis in the city centre; Pictura, a bar featuring a portrait gallery of paintings by renowned artists and serving classic cocktails; and the sparkling Champagne Bar, all of them overseen by chef Quique Dacosta.
From Celebrities to Nobles
The hotel’s most exclusive room is the 190m2 Royal Suite, the last word in luxury, boasting private balconies overlooking the Prado Museum and the Plaza de la Lealtad. It is located in the original place designed by César Ritz which has been hosting celebrities and royals for over a hundred years.
Royals who have stayed here over the years include rMonaco Royal Family, Prince Charles and Princess Diana and the Duke of Windsor and his wife. The list of Hollywood stars that have been spotted entering the hotel, luggage in tow, is extensive and ranges from Henry Fond, Sofia Loren and Orson Welles to Mel Gibson, Warren Beatty and Julia Roberts.
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