The Luxury Hotels of Spain and Portugal - site inspections
Oct 14, 2009, 12:25 am
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The Luxury Hotels of Spain and Portugal - site inspections
LISBON
Hotel Ritz Four Seasons
This hotel is located in the heart of Lisbon, overlooking the Parque Eduardo VII. An easy walk from the major downtown street, Avenida ad Liberdade, the Four Seasons is ideally situated for easy access to shopping and sightseeing.
Built in 1959, the Ritz is a ten-story hotel with 282 guest rooms and suites, a large hotel by Four Seasons standards. Rooms are spacious (484 square feet for Superior and Deluxe rooms) with large marble bathrooms that include a large soaking tub, step-in shower, and dual sinks. Deluxe rooms are on the south side of the building overlooking the Park, while Superior rooms are 5th floor and above on the north side with city views. Moderate rooms, slightly smaller, are found on the lower floors on the north side. Junior suites are large (721 square feet) - although because of the unusual configuration of the rooms, the extra space is not really useful. 1 BR Suites (968 sq. ft) with separate LR and BR are found in the middle of each floor. I was told that Superior rooms upgrade to Deluxe 99% of the time. With relatively few suites, upgrades into them is not likely, although the hotel can sometimes double-upgrade from a Deluxe to an Imperial Suite.
The Imperial Suite is the place to be. Located on the southwest corner of the building, its LR overlooks both the Park and the River while the BR has a Park view. The suite is large and beautiful.
There is a great exercise facility on the roof of the hotel. A glass enclosed exercise room provides expansive views of Lisbon with an outdoor track around the roof. They serve a fitness breakfast buffet in this facility as well.
The Concierge staff was helpful and efficient with restaurant recommendations and reservations.
Lapa Palace
The Lapa Palace is set on a hilltop in an elegant residential neighborhood of Lisbon, surrounded by upscale homes including the residences of many foreign ambassadors to Portugal. It is set around a large garden with an outdoor infinity pool. If you want to be in the center of the action, choose FS. But if you want a garden oasis, Lapa Palace would be a great choice.
Rooms are large and attractive - 430 square feet - though not as large as at the Four Seasons. Guests booking through Virtuoso receive an upgrade at booking. Originally built in 1870 as a private residence, the old wing of the hotel contains the lobby, restaurant, Signature Rooms (which are available in both Louis XV or Art Deco style), as well as some impressive suites. The new wing is a five-story addition that contains most of the guest rooms. Pool and Garden rooms are on the lower floors and River View rooms on the higher floors. Behind this wing is a new building containing Villa Rooms (a bit more spacious than the Pool/Garden/River rooms with larger bathrooms) and Suites, as well as the hotel's spa. All bathrooms have dual vanities and step-in showers.
There is a particularly good set of Virtuoso amenities including upgrade at time of booking, full American Breakfast daily (already included in the rates), complimentary parking, and (for guests staying 3 nights) complimentary round-trip airport transfers and a complimentary 3-course à la carte dinner.
MADRID
Westin Palace Hotel
Built, in 1912, the Palace Hotel is a large, 468 room hotel, beautifully located in the heart of the tourist attractions of Madrid. The impressive marble lobby creates the atmosphere for your stay. Deluxe rooms have Queen beds with a courtyard view (quiet). Premier Rooms are about 5 sqm larger and offer beautiful views of the fountain and circle in front of the hotel. Executive rooms are the same size as Premier but without the view; they offer late 4 p.m. checkout, breakfast, free shoe shine service, express laundry, and free internet and pay TV. Junior Suites are extremely nice, 58 sqm — and come in a choice of King, Queen, or Twin beds. The "58" series are particularly nice with a small living room along with a bedroom; trade-off between a slightly larger BR and a powder room. Finally, the "36" Executive Suite is a real Wow.
You can request guestrooms with either a Tub or a Step-in Shower (but not both). Double vanities are found throughout the property.
Hotel Villa Real, a block away from the Palace Hotel, is a small, 115 room boutique property with very contemporary styling. A member of Small Luxury Hotels, standard rooms are small - just 31 sqm - but they offer real value with a room rate of approximately 150€. Rooms feature hardwood floors and a queen bed - but are quite narrow. Rooms are on two levels. The hallway leads past the bath (dual vanities in the bathroom but a shower in the tub) into the bedroom, then down a couple of steps to the sitting area. Fifth floor rooms are Duplex, with both Standard and Large versions (the Large is double-width).
The owner of the Derby Hotels collection has an extensive art collection, and a number of Roman mosaics are found throughout the Villa Real.
Hotel Urban, also a member of the Derby Collection, is a couple of blocks away from Villa Real. Featuring bold, contemporary architecture, rates are about 40€ greater than at Villa Real. I was shown a king-bedded suite with a glass enclosed bathroom, sleeping area, and sitting area. Size is about 50 sqm. Floors are dark wood with pink marble bathrooms. African art is seen throughout this property. (Not Virtuoso).
Hotel Ritz Madrid
An historic property built in 1910 at the direction of King Alfonso XIII, the Ritz is right next door to the Prado Museum - and across the plaza from the Westin Palace (which the Ritz originally built in 1912). A small, elegant hotel operated by Orient Express, the Ritz has just 137 rooms and 30 suites. Guests can expect a superior level of service. Example: like the Palace, the Ritz has two concierges on duty, but they serve the needs of approximately 1/3 the number of guests. We experienced the need to wait for a concierge at the Palace but were able to walk right up and get our questions answered at the Ritz by both concierges.
We were able to view a Classic Room, a Deluxe Room, as well as a One Bedroom Deluxe Suite. The rooms we saw had twin vanities, tubs, and step-in showers - but as every room in the hotel is shaped and furnished uniquely, you should make your preferences known to your travel consultant. We heard that the Ritz will close next year for a 12-18 month total renovation. Presently very elegant but a bit tired, the Ritz should emerge from its renovation a stunning and up-to-date luxury hotel.
Hotel Villa Magna
Located in the shopping district of Madrid, Hotel Villa Magna is in a good area for nightlife with many restaurants and bars in the vicinity. The hotel itself underwent a complete renovation, reopening in January 2009. With 100 rooms and 50 suites, it is a beautiful hotel with a classic contemporary feel. I saw four rooms — Deluxe, Prestige, Jr. Suite, and Executive Suite. Rooms come in two different color schemes, one using cool, neutral colors — tan, beige, and plum — with the other using a white and dark brown color motif. Personal preference: I liked the tan, beige, and plum styling. The rooms feature "mirrored" flat screen televisions and marble bathrooms. The lead-in Deluxe room is about 350 square feet while the Prestige room is about 450 square feet. If at all possible, Virtuoso guests get upgraded to a Prestige - which features walk-in rain shower, full tub, and dual vanities. (All rooms except Deluxe have walk-in showers). The Junior suite has a separate bedroom and living room section … while Executive Suites provide sliding pocket doors between the BR and LR.
SEVILLE
Alfonso XIII
Built in 1929 as a hotel, Alfonso XIII is a visually stunning property located in the heart of the tourist area of Seville. Upon entering our room, we were struck with its elegance — 12 foot ceilings, padded silk wall coverings, marble floors, canopied bed, antique furniture, and a dual vanity bathroom with very interesting copper-colored tiles. However, at this point, the accolades stop and the criticisms must begin. Although this Starwood Luxury Collection property is a 5-star hotel, it does not offer 5-star service. (It is not Virtuoso). There was no welcome amenity and just a pre-printed "Dear Guest" card in two languages — albeit a small thing but, in conjunction with the rest of this property's shortcomings, paradigmatic of a lack of attention to guest services. We had reserved a King-bedded room but were given a room with two twin beds … the most uncomfortable bed in which I have ever tried to sleep. Both mattresses sagged and were rock hard, so that spending time in bed was genuinely painful.
I had the misfortune, while at this property, to catch a 24-hour virus and spent a complete day in bed - the painful, sagging, rock-hard bed. My partner told the front desk that I wasn't feeling well and asked if the mattresses could be replaced. The only response was to send up two housekeepers who put a bedboard under the mattress. No one got in touch to ask if it made the bed comfortable. No one asked if I was feeling better. No one inquired if there was anything they could do to make my stay more pleasant. Five-star service is proactive; this hotel was indifferent.
We also asked, on two different occasions, to be provided with softer, thinner pillows. They kept sending up the same thick, uncomfortable pillows.
What about the buffet breakfast? Similar buffet breakfasts were served at FS Lisbon and Westin Madrid where waiters poured freshly squeezed orange juice and filled our drinking glasses with mineral water. At Alfonso XIII? Everything was self-service from the buffet, and the orange juice was bitter.
Alfonso XIII did none of the small things well, and I would not recommend this hotel to guests seeking a 5-star experience.
GRENADA
AC Santo Paula
This hotel is a very tasteful mixture of old and new. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (but not Virtuoso), AC Santo Paula is located on the main street running through Granada, a few blocks from the cathedral. The lobby is a very attractive contemporary space with beautiful shades of muted peaches and greens. The older part of the hotel, in the back of the house, has been converted from an old monastery and from an old Moorish house.
Amenities include complimentary mini-bar, free WiFi in the lobby, and an addictive chocolate welcome gift.
The Standard lead-in rooms are in the contemporary section at the front of the house, overlooking a busy and noisy street. We stayed in a Superior Room in the old convent section, overlooking a central courtyard with fountain. Our room was cozy but adequate, about 320 square feet, with very high ceilings, hardwood floors, contemporary furnishings, a fabulously comfortable bed and a perfect pillow (see above). The bathroom had terra-cotta tiles in the floors; somewhat small, it nonetheless had dual vanities (a unique glass counter with two sinks) and shower in the tub (but at least a glass shower door). The one major drawback… the bathroom door is glass and faces the bed directly. The bathroom lights are either off or full on, making it impossible to turn on the lights at night without their shining directly on the still sleeping occupant of the bed. It's a perfect room for a single traveler, though. (We unscrewed the ten lights on either side of the mirror, which should ameliorate the situation when using the bathroom in the middle of the night).
We were also shown a Junior Suite in the old Moorish house. This architectural style featured small windows (to keep out the heat) and low ceilings, and thus the rooms in this part of the hotel are darker but larger. The door of the suite opens into a sitting area with a desk and sofa. This space connects to a bedroom on the left and to the bathroom straight ahead. While spaces were a bit broken up, the problem of the bathroom lights shining directly onto the bed is not present here.
Hospes Palacio de los Patos
Hospes is a Spanish hotel chain that specializes in purchasing old homes and converting them into boutique hotels. It has nine properties in Spain and one in France (Hotel Lancaster in Paris).
Palacio de los Patos is located in the downtown area of Granada on a busy shopping and commercial street. There are 20 rooms in the old palace and an additional 22 lead-in Standard Rooms (which they call Dreamer Rooms) in the new section, built over the old stables. The two sections of the property are connected through a small garden with fountains as well as by an underground walkway.
While the old Palace wing preserves the traditional features of the renovated 19th century house (including a marble staircase, 16 foot ceilings on the first floor and 12 foot ceilings on the second floor), the furnishings and bathrooms are extremely avante garde. Most of the rooms feature the original white tile floors and elaborate carved wooden ceilings with painted insets. We saw two Deluxe Room, one of which was quite small. More interesting was an octagonally-shaped Junior Suite in the former Winter Living Room of the residence; it used a room divider to create an entry space in the front third of the room and a sleeping and living space in the back two-thirds of the room. The Presidential Suite was very large, 72 sqm with separate living and sleeping areas, but the suite seemed rather long and narrow. Bathrooms featured single vanities in Deluxe Rooms and double vanities in the suite categories. The Suites we were shown had separate walk-in showers in additional to a soaking tub, and we are told that some Deluxe rooms also have step-in showers; these rooms can be requested.
The Dreamer Rooms in the new building are even more avante garde. Each room is rectangular with glass walls dividing the sleeping and the bathroom areas of the living space. South-facing, they are extremely bright during the day.
While the contemporary design of the new wing and renovation of the Palace have won a number of awards, this hotel would only appeal to a select clientele who would appreciate its unique style.
I had lunch in the hotel's restaurant and especially enjoyed their tapas; the baby squid in their own ink was a wonderful meal, and I can totally recommend having lunch or dinner at Palacio de los Patos, even if you may wish to stay elsewhere. The property is graced by a talented and creative chef.
Hotel Ritz Four Seasons
This hotel is located in the heart of Lisbon, overlooking the Parque Eduardo VII. An easy walk from the major downtown street, Avenida ad Liberdade, the Four Seasons is ideally situated for easy access to shopping and sightseeing.
Built in 1959, the Ritz is a ten-story hotel with 282 guest rooms and suites, a large hotel by Four Seasons standards. Rooms are spacious (484 square feet for Superior and Deluxe rooms) with large marble bathrooms that include a large soaking tub, step-in shower, and dual sinks. Deluxe rooms are on the south side of the building overlooking the Park, while Superior rooms are 5th floor and above on the north side with city views. Moderate rooms, slightly smaller, are found on the lower floors on the north side. Junior suites are large (721 square feet) - although because of the unusual configuration of the rooms, the extra space is not really useful. 1 BR Suites (968 sq. ft) with separate LR and BR are found in the middle of each floor. I was told that Superior rooms upgrade to Deluxe 99% of the time. With relatively few suites, upgrades into them is not likely, although the hotel can sometimes double-upgrade from a Deluxe to an Imperial Suite.
The Imperial Suite is the place to be. Located on the southwest corner of the building, its LR overlooks both the Park and the River while the BR has a Park view. The suite is large and beautiful.
There is a great exercise facility on the roof of the hotel. A glass enclosed exercise room provides expansive views of Lisbon with an outdoor track around the roof. They serve a fitness breakfast buffet in this facility as well.
The Concierge staff was helpful and efficient with restaurant recommendations and reservations.
Lapa Palace
The Lapa Palace is set on a hilltop in an elegant residential neighborhood of Lisbon, surrounded by upscale homes including the residences of many foreign ambassadors to Portugal. It is set around a large garden with an outdoor infinity pool. If you want to be in the center of the action, choose FS. But if you want a garden oasis, Lapa Palace would be a great choice.
Rooms are large and attractive - 430 square feet - though not as large as at the Four Seasons. Guests booking through Virtuoso receive an upgrade at booking. Originally built in 1870 as a private residence, the old wing of the hotel contains the lobby, restaurant, Signature Rooms (which are available in both Louis XV or Art Deco style), as well as some impressive suites. The new wing is a five-story addition that contains most of the guest rooms. Pool and Garden rooms are on the lower floors and River View rooms on the higher floors. Behind this wing is a new building containing Villa Rooms (a bit more spacious than the Pool/Garden/River rooms with larger bathrooms) and Suites, as well as the hotel's spa. All bathrooms have dual vanities and step-in showers.
There is a particularly good set of Virtuoso amenities including upgrade at time of booking, full American Breakfast daily (already included in the rates), complimentary parking, and (for guests staying 3 nights) complimentary round-trip airport transfers and a complimentary 3-course à la carte dinner.
MADRID
Westin Palace Hotel
Built, in 1912, the Palace Hotel is a large, 468 room hotel, beautifully located in the heart of the tourist attractions of Madrid. The impressive marble lobby creates the atmosphere for your stay. Deluxe rooms have Queen beds with a courtyard view (quiet). Premier Rooms are about 5 sqm larger and offer beautiful views of the fountain and circle in front of the hotel. Executive rooms are the same size as Premier but without the view; they offer late 4 p.m. checkout, breakfast, free shoe shine service, express laundry, and free internet and pay TV. Junior Suites are extremely nice, 58 sqm — and come in a choice of King, Queen, or Twin beds. The "58" series are particularly nice with a small living room along with a bedroom; trade-off between a slightly larger BR and a powder room. Finally, the "36" Executive Suite is a real Wow.
You can request guestrooms with either a Tub or a Step-in Shower (but not both). Double vanities are found throughout the property.
Hotel Villa Real, a block away from the Palace Hotel, is a small, 115 room boutique property with very contemporary styling. A member of Small Luxury Hotels, standard rooms are small - just 31 sqm - but they offer real value with a room rate of approximately 150€. Rooms feature hardwood floors and a queen bed - but are quite narrow. Rooms are on two levels. The hallway leads past the bath (dual vanities in the bathroom but a shower in the tub) into the bedroom, then down a couple of steps to the sitting area. Fifth floor rooms are Duplex, with both Standard and Large versions (the Large is double-width).
The owner of the Derby Hotels collection has an extensive art collection, and a number of Roman mosaics are found throughout the Villa Real.
Hotel Urban, also a member of the Derby Collection, is a couple of blocks away from Villa Real. Featuring bold, contemporary architecture, rates are about 40€ greater than at Villa Real. I was shown a king-bedded suite with a glass enclosed bathroom, sleeping area, and sitting area. Size is about 50 sqm. Floors are dark wood with pink marble bathrooms. African art is seen throughout this property. (Not Virtuoso).
Hotel Ritz Madrid
An historic property built in 1910 at the direction of King Alfonso XIII, the Ritz is right next door to the Prado Museum - and across the plaza from the Westin Palace (which the Ritz originally built in 1912). A small, elegant hotel operated by Orient Express, the Ritz has just 137 rooms and 30 suites. Guests can expect a superior level of service. Example: like the Palace, the Ritz has two concierges on duty, but they serve the needs of approximately 1/3 the number of guests. We experienced the need to wait for a concierge at the Palace but were able to walk right up and get our questions answered at the Ritz by both concierges.
We were able to view a Classic Room, a Deluxe Room, as well as a One Bedroom Deluxe Suite. The rooms we saw had twin vanities, tubs, and step-in showers - but as every room in the hotel is shaped and furnished uniquely, you should make your preferences known to your travel consultant. We heard that the Ritz will close next year for a 12-18 month total renovation. Presently very elegant but a bit tired, the Ritz should emerge from its renovation a stunning and up-to-date luxury hotel.
Hotel Villa Magna
Located in the shopping district of Madrid, Hotel Villa Magna is in a good area for nightlife with many restaurants and bars in the vicinity. The hotel itself underwent a complete renovation, reopening in January 2009. With 100 rooms and 50 suites, it is a beautiful hotel with a classic contemporary feel. I saw four rooms — Deluxe, Prestige, Jr. Suite, and Executive Suite. Rooms come in two different color schemes, one using cool, neutral colors — tan, beige, and plum — with the other using a white and dark brown color motif. Personal preference: I liked the tan, beige, and plum styling. The rooms feature "mirrored" flat screen televisions and marble bathrooms. The lead-in Deluxe room is about 350 square feet while the Prestige room is about 450 square feet. If at all possible, Virtuoso guests get upgraded to a Prestige - which features walk-in rain shower, full tub, and dual vanities. (All rooms except Deluxe have walk-in showers). The Junior suite has a separate bedroom and living room section … while Executive Suites provide sliding pocket doors between the BR and LR.
SEVILLE
Alfonso XIII
Built in 1929 as a hotel, Alfonso XIII is a visually stunning property located in the heart of the tourist area of Seville. Upon entering our room, we were struck with its elegance — 12 foot ceilings, padded silk wall coverings, marble floors, canopied bed, antique furniture, and a dual vanity bathroom with very interesting copper-colored tiles. However, at this point, the accolades stop and the criticisms must begin. Although this Starwood Luxury Collection property is a 5-star hotel, it does not offer 5-star service. (It is not Virtuoso). There was no welcome amenity and just a pre-printed "Dear Guest" card in two languages — albeit a small thing but, in conjunction with the rest of this property's shortcomings, paradigmatic of a lack of attention to guest services. We had reserved a King-bedded room but were given a room with two twin beds … the most uncomfortable bed in which I have ever tried to sleep. Both mattresses sagged and were rock hard, so that spending time in bed was genuinely painful.
I had the misfortune, while at this property, to catch a 24-hour virus and spent a complete day in bed - the painful, sagging, rock-hard bed. My partner told the front desk that I wasn't feeling well and asked if the mattresses could be replaced. The only response was to send up two housekeepers who put a bedboard under the mattress. No one got in touch to ask if it made the bed comfortable. No one asked if I was feeling better. No one inquired if there was anything they could do to make my stay more pleasant. Five-star service is proactive; this hotel was indifferent.
We also asked, on two different occasions, to be provided with softer, thinner pillows. They kept sending up the same thick, uncomfortable pillows.
What about the buffet breakfast? Similar buffet breakfasts were served at FS Lisbon and Westin Madrid where waiters poured freshly squeezed orange juice and filled our drinking glasses with mineral water. At Alfonso XIII? Everything was self-service from the buffet, and the orange juice was bitter.
Alfonso XIII did none of the small things well, and I would not recommend this hotel to guests seeking a 5-star experience.
GRENADA
AC Santo Paula
This hotel is a very tasteful mixture of old and new. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (but not Virtuoso), AC Santo Paula is located on the main street running through Granada, a few blocks from the cathedral. The lobby is a very attractive contemporary space with beautiful shades of muted peaches and greens. The older part of the hotel, in the back of the house, has been converted from an old monastery and from an old Moorish house.
Amenities include complimentary mini-bar, free WiFi in the lobby, and an addictive chocolate welcome gift.
The Standard lead-in rooms are in the contemporary section at the front of the house, overlooking a busy and noisy street. We stayed in a Superior Room in the old convent section, overlooking a central courtyard with fountain. Our room was cozy but adequate, about 320 square feet, with very high ceilings, hardwood floors, contemporary furnishings, a fabulously comfortable bed and a perfect pillow (see above). The bathroom had terra-cotta tiles in the floors; somewhat small, it nonetheless had dual vanities (a unique glass counter with two sinks) and shower in the tub (but at least a glass shower door). The one major drawback… the bathroom door is glass and faces the bed directly. The bathroom lights are either off or full on, making it impossible to turn on the lights at night without their shining directly on the still sleeping occupant of the bed. It's a perfect room for a single traveler, though. (We unscrewed the ten lights on either side of the mirror, which should ameliorate the situation when using the bathroom in the middle of the night).
We were also shown a Junior Suite in the old Moorish house. This architectural style featured small windows (to keep out the heat) and low ceilings, and thus the rooms in this part of the hotel are darker but larger. The door of the suite opens into a sitting area with a desk and sofa. This space connects to a bedroom on the left and to the bathroom straight ahead. While spaces were a bit broken up, the problem of the bathroom lights shining directly onto the bed is not present here.
Hospes Palacio de los Patos
Hospes is a Spanish hotel chain that specializes in purchasing old homes and converting them into boutique hotels. It has nine properties in Spain and one in France (Hotel Lancaster in Paris).
Palacio de los Patos is located in the downtown area of Granada on a busy shopping and commercial street. There are 20 rooms in the old palace and an additional 22 lead-in Standard Rooms (which they call Dreamer Rooms) in the new section, built over the old stables. The two sections of the property are connected through a small garden with fountains as well as by an underground walkway.
While the old Palace wing preserves the traditional features of the renovated 19th century house (including a marble staircase, 16 foot ceilings on the first floor and 12 foot ceilings on the second floor), the furnishings and bathrooms are extremely avante garde. Most of the rooms feature the original white tile floors and elaborate carved wooden ceilings with painted insets. We saw two Deluxe Room, one of which was quite small. More interesting was an octagonally-shaped Junior Suite in the former Winter Living Room of the residence; it used a room divider to create an entry space in the front third of the room and a sleeping and living space in the back two-thirds of the room. The Presidential Suite was very large, 72 sqm with separate living and sleeping areas, but the suite seemed rather long and narrow. Bathrooms featured single vanities in Deluxe Rooms and double vanities in the suite categories. The Suites we were shown had separate walk-in showers in additional to a soaking tub, and we are told that some Deluxe rooms also have step-in showers; these rooms can be requested.
The Dreamer Rooms in the new building are even more avante garde. Each room is rectangular with glass walls dividing the sleeping and the bathroom areas of the living space. South-facing, they are extremely bright during the day.
While the contemporary design of the new wing and renovation of the Palace have won a number of awards, this hotel would only appeal to a select clientele who would appreciate its unique style.
I had lunch in the hotel's restaurant and especially enjoyed their tapas; the baby squid in their own ink was a wonderful meal, and I can totally recommend having lunch or dinner at Palacio de los Patos, even if you may wish to stay elsewhere. The property is graced by a talented and creative chef.
Last edited by DavidO; Oct 14, 2009 at 12:54 am
Oct 14, 2009, 12:26 am
#2
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Asheville, NC
Programs: Virtuoso, FSPP, STARS, MO FAN Club, PEN Club, Bellini Club, Dorchester Diamond Club, Travel Leaders
Posts: 1,854
Barcelona Hotel Reviews
Hotel Arts
Originally built for the Barcelona Olympics in 1992, Hotel Arts is a Ritz-Carlton property in everything but name; due to the nuances of Spanish law, the company cannot use their trademark in Spain because of the existing Hotel Ritz in Madrid. This is a beautiful high-rise hotel by the Mediterranean Sea in Barcelona, adjacent to the Olympic Harbor. This location that provides Hotel Arts with its most stunning feature — the views — but is also the one argument one could make to staying here; a taxi is required to get nearly everywhere in Barcelona.
A large property, high-rise property, we stayed in a Deluxe Club Room on the 32nd floor, one floor beneath the Club itself. (Club Rooms are located on floors 30-33). The Club Floors are a small boutique "hotel within a hotel" with its own check-in and check-out desk and concierges. Free WiFi is available within the Club Lounge (and I could access it from my room directly beneath the lounge — there are four such rooms: 3204, 05, 06, and 07). A staircase leading directly into the Club from the lower floors is a convenient feature (no need to wait for elevators). The Deluxe Room is large (about 500 square feet) with contemporary styling that alludes to Barcelona's art deco tradition. The rough textures of the fabric wall coverings running the length of the room contrasted well with the vertical "folds" in the wallpaper on the end walls of the room. The muted color scheme was attractively elegant. The bathroom provided a dual vanity, soaking tub, step-in shower, and a toilet behind a separate door. The lights, flat screen TV, and DVD/CD player were controlled by electronics that I could never quite figure out!
I was shown a Seaview Suite (typical of suites found on floors 19-29), a corner room with 1.5 baths that faces the Sea and offers a southern view of the City as well. Book this room for a real WOW experience in Barcelona. Or, for an even more extravagant WOW, book one of the duplex Residences found on floors 34 and higher. I was shown a 2BR Residence with a City View, looking into the heart of Barcelona. At 250 square meters with 2 full baths upstairs and a powder room downstairs, this is the ultimate way to stay at Hotel Arts. Residences also come with the use of a Mini-Cooper convertible and 2 massages per suite - in addition to the regular Virtuoso and STARS amenities.
The Club itself is a beautiful facility with five food presentations during the day including Champagne during the cocktail hour. Hotel Arts has a Six Senses Spa as well as an outdoor pool and jacuzzi (not heated).
Hotel Casa Fuster
Casa Fuster was designed by architect Luis Domenech i Montaner who also designed Barcelona's art deco Palace of Music. Built in 1908, this was built as the home of a wealthy Barcelona family and was, at the time, the most expensive residence in Barcelona. The property re-opened five years ago as a hotel with 96 rooms. The original facade of the building was kept intact, but the interior was completely redone, with the exception of existing columns. The designer's intent was to retain the art deco motif as well as the character of the original building.
The house is set on one of Barcelona's most beautiful avenues, Pasea Gran de Gracia. Having been built in 1908 at a time when most traveled by horse and carriage, the house was set in a location that provided a direct view down the avenue from the living room (the avenue bent around the house). This provided a similar privileged view from each full Suites in the hotel.
I was shown a room in each category — Standard, Superior, Deluxe, Jr. Suite, Sr. Suite, and Suite. The Standard lead-in room type is adequate (about 300 square feet with a single sink in the bathroom and a tub in the shower), but upgrades to Superior rooms are not difficult as there are more Superior Rooms than any other category. Superiors, about 34-35 square meters, offer double vanities and separate walk-in shower. Deluxe Rooms are the same size but also include a walk-in shower; try to book the Deluxe on the top floor for a direct view over the treetops down the Avenue.
Junior Suites are a very nice room product, about 45 square meters with pocket doors separating the living and bedroom areas. Senior Suites face directly down the avenue (but don't have doors that close off the bedroom). The full Suite is a beautiful room with a circular living room right in the middle of the street (as described above). At 75 square meters, this is a spacious option.
Reasons to book Casa Fuster? It has a great location in downtown Barcelona, has the feel of a historic property, and is easy walking distance from shops and restaurants. It also offers free WiFi to guests. However, guests who prefer accommodations with more natural light in the rooms and a more spacious, modern feel would prefer Hotel Arts.
Originally built for the Barcelona Olympics in 1992, Hotel Arts is a Ritz-Carlton property in everything but name; due to the nuances of Spanish law, the company cannot use their trademark in Spain because of the existing Hotel Ritz in Madrid. This is a beautiful high-rise hotel by the Mediterranean Sea in Barcelona, adjacent to the Olympic Harbor. This location that provides Hotel Arts with its most stunning feature — the views — but is also the one argument one could make to staying here; a taxi is required to get nearly everywhere in Barcelona.
A large property, high-rise property, we stayed in a Deluxe Club Room on the 32nd floor, one floor beneath the Club itself. (Club Rooms are located on floors 30-33). The Club Floors are a small boutique "hotel within a hotel" with its own check-in and check-out desk and concierges. Free WiFi is available within the Club Lounge (and I could access it from my room directly beneath the lounge — there are four such rooms: 3204, 05, 06, and 07). A staircase leading directly into the Club from the lower floors is a convenient feature (no need to wait for elevators). The Deluxe Room is large (about 500 square feet) with contemporary styling that alludes to Barcelona's art deco tradition. The rough textures of the fabric wall coverings running the length of the room contrasted well with the vertical "folds" in the wallpaper on the end walls of the room. The muted color scheme was attractively elegant. The bathroom provided a dual vanity, soaking tub, step-in shower, and a toilet behind a separate door. The lights, flat screen TV, and DVD/CD player were controlled by electronics that I could never quite figure out!
I was shown a Seaview Suite (typical of suites found on floors 19-29), a corner room with 1.5 baths that faces the Sea and offers a southern view of the City as well. Book this room for a real WOW experience in Barcelona. Or, for an even more extravagant WOW, book one of the duplex Residences found on floors 34 and higher. I was shown a 2BR Residence with a City View, looking into the heart of Barcelona. At 250 square meters with 2 full baths upstairs and a powder room downstairs, this is the ultimate way to stay at Hotel Arts. Residences also come with the use of a Mini-Cooper convertible and 2 massages per suite - in addition to the regular Virtuoso and STARS amenities.
The Club itself is a beautiful facility with five food presentations during the day including Champagne during the cocktail hour. Hotel Arts has a Six Senses Spa as well as an outdoor pool and jacuzzi (not heated).
Hotel Casa Fuster
Casa Fuster was designed by architect Luis Domenech i Montaner who also designed Barcelona's art deco Palace of Music. Built in 1908, this was built as the home of a wealthy Barcelona family and was, at the time, the most expensive residence in Barcelona. The property re-opened five years ago as a hotel with 96 rooms. The original facade of the building was kept intact, but the interior was completely redone, with the exception of existing columns. The designer's intent was to retain the art deco motif as well as the character of the original building.
The house is set on one of Barcelona's most beautiful avenues, Pasea Gran de Gracia. Having been built in 1908 at a time when most traveled by horse and carriage, the house was set in a location that provided a direct view down the avenue from the living room (the avenue bent around the house). This provided a similar privileged view from each full Suites in the hotel.
I was shown a room in each category — Standard, Superior, Deluxe, Jr. Suite, Sr. Suite, and Suite. The Standard lead-in room type is adequate (about 300 square feet with a single sink in the bathroom and a tub in the shower), but upgrades to Superior rooms are not difficult as there are more Superior Rooms than any other category. Superiors, about 34-35 square meters, offer double vanities and separate walk-in shower. Deluxe Rooms are the same size but also include a walk-in shower; try to book the Deluxe on the top floor for a direct view over the treetops down the Avenue.
Junior Suites are a very nice room product, about 45 square meters with pocket doors separating the living and bedroom areas. Senior Suites face directly down the avenue (but don't have doors that close off the bedroom). The full Suite is a beautiful room with a circular living room right in the middle of the street (as described above). At 75 square meters, this is a spacious option.
Reasons to book Casa Fuster? It has a great location in downtown Barcelona, has the feel of a historic property, and is easy walking distance from shops and restaurants. It also offers free WiFi to guests. However, guests who prefer accommodations with more natural light in the rooms and a more spacious, modern feel would prefer Hotel Arts.
Last edited by DavidO; Oct 16, 2009 at 12:01 am
Oct 14, 2009, 3:39 am
#4
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Here, There, and Everywhere
Posts: 226
The Four Seasons Ritz is the old Intercontinental Lisbon. Last time I stayed there the rooms looked old and tired and the bathrooms were really disappointing with very old fixtures.
I believe the hotel has just had a soft refurbishment but seems like bathrooms remain the same.
Saying that the rooftop gym is quite amazing. There is a nice Spa and indoor swimming pool ( overlooking hotel gardens but unfortunately you cannot access them from the pool even in summer).
Food at the Restaurant was great but service and athmosphere were a bit too formal for my liking.
DavidO, Did you try Hotel Bairro Alto and the RC Penha Longa in Sintra?
Imho, the Westin Madrid well is just another Westin, The Ritz is like you said old and tired. The Villa Magna is what used to be the Park Hyatt and has just been refurbished.
The only exciting addition to the Madrid hotel scene is the Hospes Madrid. It is small, stylish and in a great location. The restaurant is excellent.
Same for Granada. I think Hospes is the best option in town. It is very private and the mix of contemporary and traditional works well. The food was sensational.
Have you tried the Hospes Palacio del Bailio in Cordoba? It is a wonderful hotel. I really love it and would go back in a heartbeat.
Thannks for the report.
I believe the hotel has just had a soft refurbishment but seems like bathrooms remain the same.
Saying that the rooftop gym is quite amazing. There is a nice Spa and indoor swimming pool ( overlooking hotel gardens but unfortunately you cannot access them from the pool even in summer).
Food at the Restaurant was great but service and athmosphere were a bit too formal for my liking.
DavidO, Did you try Hotel Bairro Alto and the RC Penha Longa in Sintra?
Imho, the Westin Madrid well is just another Westin, The Ritz is like you said old and tired. The Villa Magna is what used to be the Park Hyatt and has just been refurbished.
The only exciting addition to the Madrid hotel scene is the Hospes Madrid. It is small, stylish and in a great location. The restaurant is excellent.
Same for Granada. I think Hospes is the best option in town. It is very private and the mix of contemporary and traditional works well. The food was sensational.
Have you tried the Hospes Palacio del Bailio in Cordoba? It is a wonderful hotel. I really love it and would go back in a heartbeat.
Thannks for the report.
Oct 14, 2009, 3:41 am
#5
Join Date: Feb 2005
Programs: BA Gold
Posts: 1,068
The Four Seasons Ritz is the old Intercontinental Lisbon. Last time I stayed there the rooms looked old and tired and the bathrooms were really disappointing with very old fixtures.
I believe the hotel has just had a soft refurbishment but seems like bathrooms remain the same.
Saying that the rooftop gym is quite amazing. There is a nice Spa and indoor swimming pool ( overlooking hotel gardens but unfortunately you cannot access them from the pool even in summer).
Food at the Restaurant was great but service and athmosphere were a bit too formal for my liking.
DavidO, Did you try Hotel Bairro Alto and the RC Penha Longa in Sintra?
Imho, the Westin Madrid well is just another Westin, The Ritz is like you said old and tired. The Villa Magna is what used to be the Park Hyatt and has just been refurbished.
The only exciting addition to the Madrid hotel scene is the Hospes Madrid. It is small, stylish and in a great location. The restaurant is excellent.
Same for Granada. I think Hospes is the best option in town. It is very private and the mix of contemporary and traditional works well. The food was sensational.
Have you tried the Hospes Palacio del Bailio in Cordoba? It is a wonderful hotel. I really love it and would go back in a heartbeat.
Thannks for the report.
I believe the hotel has just had a soft refurbishment but seems like bathrooms remain the same.
Saying that the rooftop gym is quite amazing. There is a nice Spa and indoor swimming pool ( overlooking hotel gardens but unfortunately you cannot access them from the pool even in summer).
Food at the Restaurant was great but service and athmosphere were a bit too formal for my liking.
DavidO, Did you try Hotel Bairro Alto and the RC Penha Longa in Sintra?
Imho, the Westin Madrid well is just another Westin, The Ritz is like you said old and tired. The Villa Magna is what used to be the Park Hyatt and has just been refurbished.
The only exciting addition to the Madrid hotel scene is the Hospes Madrid. It is small, stylish and in a great location. The restaurant is excellent.
Same for Granada. I think Hospes is the best option in town. It is very private and the mix of contemporary and traditional works well. The food was sensational.
Have you tried the Hospes Palacio del Bailio in Cordoba? It is a wonderful hotel. I really love it and would go back in a heartbeat.
Thannks for the report.
Oct 14, 2009, 8:26 am
#6
Join Date: May 1999
Location: Tucson, AZ
Programs: Marriott LTT, Hilton Dia, Hyatt Expl, Avis Pres, Hertz Pres, National EE, AA Gold, UA Silver
Posts: 871
Thanks so much for sharing your report, DavidO! I too look forward to reading about your Barcelona experience. That is unfortunate about the Alfonso XIII -- I have been a long-time SPG fan, but I have found their Luxury Collection brand to be consistently inconsistent.
Oct 14, 2009, 10:34 am
#7
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: IAD/DCA
Posts: 31,797
lots of good info as usual. ^
double?
deluxe €490 / €260
junior €690 / €475
central €1050
imperial €1365
(lowest regular / promo)
site says 282, but i count 262 rooms + 22 suites = 284. also, all the rooms have terraces except imperial suites and presidential suite. ah, i presume they are located in the same place on each floor. thats why there are 9 imperial suites. presidential must be on 10th floor above them, in same location. and corner gives them the only river and castle views.
just noticed one of the most detailed "attractions" pages as well - http://www.fourseasons.com/lisbon/me...tractions.html
deluxe €490 / €260
junior €690 / €475
central €1050
imperial €1365
(lowest regular / promo)
site says 282, but i count 262 rooms + 22 suites = 284. also, all the rooms have terraces except imperial suites and presidential suite. ah, i presume they are located in the same place on each floor. thats why there are 9 imperial suites. presidential must be on 10th floor above them, in same location. and corner gives them the only river and castle views.
just noticed one of the most detailed "attractions" pages as well - http://www.fourseasons.com/lisbon/me...tractions.html
Last edited by Kagehitokiri; Oct 14, 2009 at 10:52 am
Oct 14, 2009, 11:24 am
#8
Moderator: Luxury Hotels and FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Palo Alto, California,USA
Posts: 17,856
Stayed at the Lapa Palace in Lisbon a few years back in a Villa room. Location is a bit away from where you will want to be, but rooms are nice. Service is friendly and helpful but frequently a bit blundering and slow. Overall, it's good but not memorable.
Oct 14, 2009, 12:40 pm
#9
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Dublin,Ireland and Nice France
Programs: BA Gold
Posts: 2,058
Looking foward to the rest of the reviews!
I'm hoping he did as I'm planning on being in both within the month.
I stayed there twice and both times had bad experiences
Imho, the Westin Madrid well is just another Westin,
Oct 19, 2009, 1:01 am
#10
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: IAD/DCA
Posts: 31,797
http://www.lapapalace.com/select_lan...dex.php?id=115
just noticed lapa is no longer orient express, but LHW was maintained, and i guess virtuoso as well.
just noticed lapa is no longer orient express, but LHW was maintained, and i guess virtuoso as well.
Last edited by Kagehitokiri; Oct 19, 2009 at 3:12 am
Oct 19, 2009, 7:01 am
#12
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: just West of London, UK
Programs: British Airways Silver
Posts: 123
Great reviews DavidO! I have to say that despite being a RC fan generally, I am not so keen on Hotel Arts: i) location and ii) it is high-rise with a cramped feeling in the public areas, such as the lobby. I like hotels where the reception is large and on the ground floor, whereas Arts' reception is tight and reached up an escalator (there is no grand entrance).
I was lucky enough to stay in one of those spectacular duplexes when I visited but even this wasn't enough to make me want to return. Passeig de Gracia is the best street to stay on if visiting as a tourist and I am excited about the imminent opening of MO there for my next trip to Barca.
Re Lisbon hotels, I know I've gone on about it before but the Penha Longa at Sintra (half an hour's drive from Lisbon if NOT rush-hour) is so wonderful that nothing will get me into a Lisbon hotel!
I was lucky enough to stay in one of those spectacular duplexes when I visited but even this wasn't enough to make me want to return. Passeig de Gracia is the best street to stay on if visiting as a tourist and I am excited about the imminent opening of MO there for my next trip to Barca.
Re Lisbon hotels, I know I've gone on about it before but the Penha Longa at Sintra (half an hour's drive from Lisbon if NOT rush-hour) is so wonderful that nothing will get me into a Lisbon hotel!
Oct 19, 2009, 1:53 pm
#13
Suspended
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: NCE - GVA - MUC
Programs: mosttraveledpeople.com
Posts: 492
Great report DavidO ^
Would like to add three of my favourite hotels:
Hacienda Benazuza near Sevilla (cuisine by Ferran Adria, El Bulli)
Hotel La Florida Barcelona
Marbella Club
Would like to add three of my favourite hotels:
Hacienda Benazuza near Sevilla (cuisine by Ferran Adria, El Bulli)
Hotel La Florida Barcelona
Marbella Club
Oct 19, 2009, 2:02 pm
#14
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Dublin,Ireland
Posts: 1,294
Marbella Club ? Are you sure TrophyCollector ? We have a family home nearby and enjoy (too many of) their Cocktails but is it not a tad trashy in a euro way?
Oct 19, 2009, 3:11 pm
#15
Suspended
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: NCE - GVA - MUC
Programs: mosttraveledpeople.com
Posts: 492
There was also a pretty fascinating clientele at the time.
P.S.:
For the non-native speakers: what is "a tad trashy in a euro way" exactly?
Do you mean the Grand Old Dames with faded facades and interiors?