Taking Off

by travel-expert José Berrocoso

IT FEELS LIKE HOME!

Set in the heart of the Spanish capital city’s distinguished Salamanca district, the reimagined icon, now Rosewood Villa Magna, represents a milestone for the brand as well as Madrid’s hospitality landscape.

It happens every time. You arrive in Madrid and think, “What a great atmosphere!”. There’s something in the air, an energy that invigorates you and fills you with positive emotions. Maybe it’s the sun, or the warmth of its people, but whatever it is, you want to explore it right away. Madrid is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and, following a comprehensive refurbishment and redesign, Villa Magna has officially debuted under the ultra-luxury Rosewood Hotels & Resorts flag. Located on Madrid's Paseo de la Castellana boulevard, amidst the city’s finest shopping, dining and cultural attractions, the historic property has been a local landmark since 1972.

Rosewood Villa Magna offers easy access to cultural and historical destinations such as the Thyssen-Bornemisza, Prado and Reina Sofia Museums and the “Landscape of Light,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Madrid is a city where luxury is synonymous with quality, design, detail and passion and this is evident in the plethora of boutiques and studios showcasing home-grown brands and products. Spanish architect Ramón de Arana led the remodel of its façade and entryway via a striking staircase and reflecting pools that draw attention to the centuries old, 100-foot-high cedar and carob trees. The gardens have been transformed by landscape designer Gregorio Marañón to maximize green spaces and include many species original to the old Anglada Palace. Australian firm BAR Studio infused a new, contemporary character and subtle references to traditional Spanish architecture, art, design and culture through the patterns, fabrics, materials and color palettes. The hotel’s extensive art collection was selected and commissioned by English firm ArtLink. Rosewood Villa Magna comprises 154 accommodations, consisting of 101 guestrooms, 49 suites and four signature suites. The exterior façade frames each guestroom with an avant-garde touch, while inside, a chromatic color palette provides a muted background with views overlooking the Paseo de la Castellana. Namely, fragrant bath amenities by Maison Caulieres (eco-friendly traveler may be pleased to note that the shampoo, body wash, conditioner and body lotion came in large pump jars), linen by Rivolta Carmignani and treats like Marshall speakers, Nespresso machines with plenty of capsules, artsy coffe table books and French brand Palais des Thés tea bags. Named after and inspired by the original Anglada Palace, Anglada House is the hotel’s largest suite, located on the top floor and offers two bedrooms, dedicated living and dining rooms, a private gym and sauna and an expansive private terrace. Also located there is Salamanca House, which includes a bedroom, living room, dining room, dressing room and full bathroom. It can also be combined with adjacent rooms to create up to a four-bedroom accommodation and a large private terrace stretching 1,500-square-feet. An ode to the large and historic cedar trees that surround the hotel, Cedros House has large windows providing natural light over a spacious living and dining room, two bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, and a separate powder room. The two Castellana Suites offer dedicated sleeping and living spaces complemented by views of the Paseo de la Castellana.

AN UNEXPECTED GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE

The hotel’s four distinct dining outlets come together to create the city’s newest and most discerning destination for inspired culinary experiences, delightful to all palates, for all occasions. Each outlet and offering references local influences, with a focus on unmatched quality and service and menus committed to sustainability and the freshest ingredients. From authentic Spanish tapas on the terraces and in the gardens, to casual business lunches and post-work cocktails, to formal events and celebratory evenings out, there are countless opportunities for guests to enjoy exceptional food and beverage with friends and family. Headlining the hotel’s food and beverage program as its signature restaurant, Amós is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jesús Sánchez and is poised to quickly establish itself as a highlight of Madrid’s culinary landscape. Revolving around an eye-catching open kitchen, Las Brasas de Castellana is the hotel’s all day dining destination, serving everything from classic tapas and small plates to more elaborate meals highlighting the quality of Madrid’s meats, fish and vegetables. The dedicated bar and lounge concept, Tarde.O was meticulously designed to reflect the warmth and spirit of an English club through an elevated atmosphere that is equal parts cultivated, casual and cool. Here, guests are invited to indulge in a wide variety of carefully selected national and international premium spirits, including an extensive collection of gins and traditional Spanish vermouths. The space extends outside onto a year-round, openair terrace, Courtyard, that serves the same delectable libations in a verdant garden setting. For those looking for a quick bite or refreshment, the hotel’s picturesque patisserie Flor y Nata serves coffee, pastries, traditional afternoon tea and light lunch and dinner, to be enjoyed in the cozy space or on the go.

UNMATCHED WELLNESS EXPERIENCES IN THE CITY CENTER

Inspired by Madrid’s Muslim origins, Sense, a Rosewood Spa, showcases treatments and therapies that incorporate its concept’s fundamental pillars of "Lost Remedies," highlighting ingredients, practices and traditions authentic to the cultures of Spain and the Mediterranean; "Sense of Balance," combining the benefits of both physical and mental wellness to achieve harmony between the body and spirit; and "Sense of Individuality," tailoring offerings to the individual for optimal results. Therapeutic massages include the Bay Leaf Ritual, the Intuitive Massage and Balancing Stone Therapy. The region’s traditional aromatic plants, including lavender, thyme, rosemary and orange blossom—and citrus scents—such as bergamot, orange, lemon and clementine—further inspire the spa’s aromatherapy offerings. Sense, a Rosewood Spa comprises four therapy cabins, one double sized to extend for couple’s treatments. Amenities and relaxation rooms include a thermal area complete with a sensation shower and jacuzzi featuring hydrotherapy functions. There is also an authentic Hammam by Paris-based brand Charme D’Orient. It also has a fitness center showcasing state-of-theart training equipment.