Palatial grandeur combines with an elegant, contemporary aesthetic at the URSO Hotel & Spa, a Small Luxury Hotels of the World Property, writes Andrew Forbes.
Opened in the summer of 2014 as the first boutique 5-star luxury hotel in the Spanish capital, the property has 78 light-filled rooms, some with original features. Dining has just seen a new innovation, with the opening of the ?Media Ración? restaurant by Fernando Cuenllas. There is also an urban spa by Natura Bissé.

Location
This early twentieth century, neoclassical building dating back to 1915 (by José María Mendoza Ussía) is found west of the swish Salamanca district and a little north of Justicia, making it well positioned for enjoying the on-trend and emerging cultural and culinary attractions the Chamberí, Tribunal and Chueca neighbourhoods. Ambiance
The URSO has a sophisticated, tranquil feel, by architect and designer Antonio Obrador, who is said to wanted to create an elegant, luxury home-from-home for guests. He is also the artistic mastermind behind the Cap Rocat hotel in Mallorca, also managed by Marugal. The property occupies a complete city block, so it means that each of the 78 guestrooms face outwards, so even though some may not have views each room is afforded plenty of natural light. The contemporary interior design elements of honey-coloured woods, light marble floors, and furnishings of muted tones create a harmonious, welcoming, and relaxed style.

Vintage oriental fabric wallpaper an...