Madrid’s most charming hotels

“Walking across grass instead of concrete, relaxing in the shade of a tree as the city traffic rumbles below, or waking up to flowers and nature in the morning: you can find these experiences, and much more, in Madrid’s hotels,” explains Mar de Miguel, Executive Vice President of the Madrid Hotel Business Association.

“From mini urban gardens to vast green spaces, the city has plenty of hotels that pair hospitality with nature,” adds Mar, who’s spent years working in both national and international tourism. “For some, there are community parks and golf courses nearby or incredible rooftop oases where you can connect with nature, admire the Madrid skyline and watch the sun set.

“Then, once you’ve settled in, complete your trip with a visit to one of the ‘Vinos de Madrid’ wineries and an unforgettable night at a flamenco ‘tablao’.”

Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, make it a relaxing escape with one of these hotel recommendations from Mar.

At the Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid the influence of nature, from nearby Retiro Park, is evident in the refined garden where chef Quique Dacosta grows his ingredients. So too is the influence of the enchanting art from neighbouring Prado Museum, which is reflected in the ceiling design of the lobby and the stunning piece, ‘Remolino del Retiro’, that sits on the hallway wall.

Another hotel bewitched by the beauty of Retiro Park is VP Jardín de Recoletos. Its terrace, whose design brings to mind the Palacio de Cristal, is a green oasis where you can relax year-round and enjoy the delicious offerings from the newly opened Ginkgo Garden restaurant.

Finally, a former college, convent and prison, the historic Parador de Alcalá de Henares is a perfect business hotel sitting sits just 20km from Barajas airport and the IFEMA events centre. But this exceptional enclave has a secret: a beautiful open-air cloister at its centre.

When the weather warms up, rooftop terraces become the most coveted spaces in the city. Most offer exquisite dining, panoramic views and the chance to discover Madrud from a new perspective.

At the NH Collection Sweden hotel, pink and brown decor blends seamlessly with the sunset seen from the roof. There, 360-degree views over Paseo del Prado, the Cibeles and the Círculo de Bellas Artes make it a memorable stay – it’s no wonder Hemingway and the Swedish Royal House both chose it as a favourite base.

In the Barrio de las Letras neighbourhood, the terrace on top of the ME Madrid Reina Victoria hotel offers a new view over the lively Plaza Santa Ana, home to plenty of foodie and entertainment hotspots.

Finally, with its magnificent panoramic view of the Parque del Retiro and Casa Árabe, H10 Puerta de Alcalá is the place to stay in the luxurious district of Salamanca. There, you’ll find a rooftop swimming pool from where you can watch the park’s leaves change colour.

For more rooftop views in Madrid, click here.

With pools of all kinds, from infinity to bubbling spas, these are the places that’ll guarantee you leave your work phone in the room.

At the Room Mate Oscar hotel, designer Tomas Alia has created a beautiful pool that can be enjoyed all year round, no matter the weather. Sitting on the rooftop terrace, it not only offers a spa-like soak, but impressive views of Madrid and a bar with an extensive cocktail menu.

If admiring the skyline is more to your taste, the infinity pool at__ Hotel Indigo Madrid – Gran Vía__ is your best option thanks to its mesmerising views. Sit back in the Sky Lounge to enjoy cocktails and food by chef Andrea Tumbarello.

Elsewhere, the Cool Rooms Palacio de Atocha hotel has a ground-floor, outdoor pool that feels more like a natural bath – surrounded by greenery, trees and an excellent restaurant – even in the city.

Click here to discover more of Madrid’s hotels with pools.

It’s easy to make your business trip more pleasurable in Madrid, where the surrounding regions are filled with charm. Add a little more to your itinerary with a visit to ‘the elf’ of Corral de la Morería. More than just your typical flamenco show, this show is practically a love letter to the discipline and boasts star-quality dancers and musicians.

Elsewhere, the El Regajal venue pairs all the beauty of a winery with an impressive collection of butterflies – almost a third of the Iberian Peninsula’s population – for an experience in nature you’ll never forget. Found in the historic city of Aranjuez, this vast estate makes for the most unique event space.

If you’re looking to fit in a round of golf between meetings, head to San Lorenzo de El Escorial and the La Herrería forest. There, among ash, oaks and holm oak trees, you’ll find the Real Club de Golf de la Herrería – looking out over the monastery in town – where you can enjoy its 18-hole course after work and the excellent, mountain-inspired restaurant.