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This article is part of the FT Globetrotter's guide to Madrid
It is a bold choice to call the hotel “CoolRooms”. For some, the name may conjure memories of backpacks and hostels; For others, it was better to serve exactly what it says on the tin. CoolRooms Atocha, a 19th-century mansion converted into a boutique hotel in Madrid's eclectic Lavapiés district, does the latter.
The 34 impressive rooms range from comfortable double rooms to 'magnificent suites' – all spacious by European standards. The Coolsuites are particularly special, well-appointed for those on a leisurely holiday in Madrid (as if there were any other kind), with large balconies, including an outdoor jacuzzi, and, from the interior living space, 360-degree views of the city's skyline. All rooms include the essential amenities for waking up after a nap and getting ready for a night out in Madrid: espresso machine, Bang & Olufsen speaker, hairdryer and GHD hair straightener (and a minibar, of course).
The elegant décor throughout the hotel, designed by local firm Proyecto Singular, strikes an elegant balance between classic and contemporary, as does the building itself, which offers glimpses of its origins as a palace dating back to 1852. Above the entrance, a statue of the Greek god Hermes nods to the area's heritage . Many of Madrid's streets, fountains and historic buildings are dotted with sculptures and busts of Greek, Roman and Egyptian gods, thanks to Spain's King Charles III, who ruled from 1759 to 1788, and whose efforts to beautify the city revolved around adding neoclassical features, specifically the area. Around Paseo del Prado, which includes Atocha, where the hotel is located. (The original owner of the palace, Nemesio Sancha, was a high-ranking naval official and a knight of the order of Charles.)
Inside, the designers made the most of the building's distinctive features, with soaring ceilings and large windows showcasing the capital's famous clear skies. Throughout, beautiful wood floors, rich fabrics and interesting nooks and spaces have been reworked to suit her new life in hospitality. The swimming pool, for example, is located right in the heart of the hotel, in a courtyard garden with rich foliage, and the all-day café, El Patio de Atocha, is open air in summer and surrounded by floor-to-ceiling trees. Glass ceiling walls otherwise.
Like the rest of the hotel, the kitchen – under the direction of Chef Eduardo Gutierrez – takes its cue from mixing old and new, serving traditional Spanish dishes with a contemporary international twist, such as silky-smooth roasted artichokes. An upscale take on typically rustic shrimp and rice. It also serves excellent cocktails and a popular weekend brunch, while more casual fare can be found at El 34, the hotel's tavern-style bar and restaurant.
For a place that's so nice, I was almost amazed at how friendly the staff was and how quickly they responded to any issues. This may be Madrid, where everything happens at a slower pace and at a later hour, but when the lights in my bathroom weren't working properly (read: writer's incompetence with technology), a member of the hotel team was on hand within minutes to help .
Its location is also hard to beat, nestled between one of the city's most diverse areas and within easy walking distance of many of Madrid's finest bars, restaurants and nightlife spots, as well as its vintage bars, flea markets and world-class museums. . Within minutes, guests can peruse the Prado Collection, the expansive and impressive Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection, or admire Picasso's giant “Guernica” in the Reina Sofia (pro tip: an entry ticket to all three, valid for a year, costs just €32 ). Also keep an eye out for a visit to the nearby Sociedad Cervantina, where the first edition of Don Quixote was printed.
In a glance
Rooms and suites: 14 rooms, 20 suites
Best for: Contemporary luxury in the heart of one of Madrid's most diverse areas
Not good for: Traditionalists
FYI: The hotel is well located for museums, restaurants, bars and nightlife
Prices: double starting from 285 euros
Address: Calle de Atocha 34, 28012 Madrid
website; directione
Nikki Blasina stayed as a guest at CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha
What is your favorite stay in Madrid? Tell us in the comments below. And follow the FT Globetrotter on Instagram at @FTGlobetrotter
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