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Updated Daily: November 2008

Hotel Ritz, Madrid

The splendour of the architecture of the Hotel Ritz as well as its history and incomparable prestige makes it one of the finest hotels in the world.

Published in: August 2008

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HOTEL RITZ

5, Plaza de la Lealtad - 28014 MADRID - Spain

The splendor of the architecture of the Hotel Ritz as well as its history and incomparable prestige makes it one of the finest hotels in the world. One of Europe's grand Belle Époque hotels, the Hotel Ritz was built in 1908 by King Alfonso XIII who was so impressed with the Ritz in Paris that he ordered a smaller replica built.

It looks out onto the circular Plaza de la Lealtad near the 120-hectare (300-acre) Retiro Park, facing the Prado, the Palacio de Villahermosa, and the Stock Exchange. The Ritz was constructed when costs were relatively low and when spaciousness and luxury were the standard. Its facade has even been designated a historic monument and the glory days of 1910 live on in the rooms with their antique furnishings and hand-woven carpets. The hotel's leafy garden, elegant terrace and sumptuous Goya Restaurant complete the sophisticated setting.

From the Classic to the more spacious Deluxe rooms and the sumptuous Junior, Deluxe, and Royal suites, accommodation epitomizes that rare mix of traditional style and high technology. Goya Restaurant offers a menu with Spanish delicacies prepared with the finest seasonal ingredients based on traditional recipes. This menu is complemented by a variety of creative dishes, original in concept and presentation influenced by French and Basque cuisine. A must in the summer is the famous Goya Terrace, an oasis of freshness and relaxation overlooking the gardens. In addition, afternoon tea is served in the majestic lobby.

Hotel Ritz is located a 3-minute walk from Atocha Station, 2 minutes from the nearest Metro station (Banco de España) and there is a bus stop just in front of the hotel. Barajas Airport is located 15 km away from the hotel, which is a 25-minute drive approximately.