Palatial quarters in Madrid
Santo Mauro, boutique hotel with an aristocratic past, has been revamped
Take a stylish trip back in time at the Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel, which relaunched in December on the grounds of a former aristocratic palace in Madrid’s tony Chamberí district.
The backstory Dating to the 19th century, the historic property was once home to the Duke of Santo Mauro and spans three buildings, including former stables and the duke’s daughter’s mansion.
More recently, the hotel was part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, and this latest revamp — encompassing the guest rooms, restaurants and other spaces, and done with the help of Spanish interior designer Lorenzo Castillo — elevates Santo Mauro to the company’s Luxury Collection.
The space There are 49 rooms and suites (from $870), ranging from 98 to 394 square feet. They all feel opulent, with a French flair that leans traditional but not prim. Imagine wallpaper and drapery in statement patterns, beds with quilted headboards, upholstered armchairs and marble bathrooms.
The Duke’s Royal Suite, once the noble’s bedroom, is the most extravagant, with velvetcovered walls, floral-print decor and a dedicated living room. Select suites also include outdoor balconies overlooking the hotel’s gardens.
The dining Spanish chef Rafael Peña, best known for Barcelona’s popular fine-dining spot Gresca, has come on board to refresh the two on-site restaurants. La Biblioteca, a formal dining space in the duke’s former library, serves up Mediterranean fare like steak tartare or lemon and cilantro-glazed sweetbreads. For more casual dishes, head to El Jardin, where you’ll find a new outdoor terrace. You can also enjoy a nightcap at the glitzy El Bar, located in the manor’s old billiards hall. The extra amenities The new spa and fitness centre, currently under construction, is set to open later this year. Until then, relax at the heated indoor pool, or take a stroll through the lush private gardens, where you’ll find centuries-old chestnut trees.
The nearby sights The trendy Chamberí residential district, historically home to the Spanish aristocracy, is worth strolling for the architectural gems. Other major city sights are also within walking distance or a short cab ride away, including El Retiro Park, a royal retreat turned sprawling public green space; Museo del Prado, one of Spain’s major art history museums; Puerta de Alcalá, a neoclassical monument that once was the gate to the city; and the Sorolla Museum, dedicated to the works of impressionist painter Joaquín Sorolla and his family.