Madrid Spain

Relais & Châteaux Hotel Orfila ★★★★★

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The exceptional location in the heart of Madrid’s golden triangle, just a stone’s throw from major boutiques and museums.
The overall charm of this luxuriously grand and timeless Madrilenian hotel.
Each of the unique rooms and suites, decorated with individually sourced 19th-century furniture from all across Europe.
The refined gourmet cuisine of The Orfila Garden, overseen by double-starred Chef Mario Sandoval.

Relais & Châteaux Hotel Orfila ★★★★★

Step into the luxury and comfort of a bygone era in the heart of Madrid.

By Benjamin Kerry, VeryChic correspondent

They don’t make hotels like this anymore! The Relais & Châteaux Hotel Orfila, in the centre of Madrid, is a rare find; a hotel with history, that integrates superb modern luxury while retaining its classic atmosphere. Part of this history was an era of mystery, spying and subterfuge during World War II, when it was home to all sorts of interesting characters. Overall, it offers a home away from home that allows you to fully immerse yourself in a city that takes enjoyment and fun very seriously.

Go to Madrid. Make contact with American operative at Relais & Châteaux Hotel Orfila. Code-named Albatross. Retrieve vital intelligence from Paris…

Neutral under General Franco, and with Paris under occupation, Spain was the natural safe-haven for the wayward, often American and Canadian, wartime expats. It was the perfect place from which spies and messages could be sent in and out of occupied France. In Madrid, this helped to create an electric atmosphere, mixing tension, passion and excitement. Both residents and visitors had an enhanced eagerness for life, and the Hotel Orfila was just the sort of place they would frequent, artists, writers… and spies alike!

The Relais & Châteaux Hotel Orfila ***** built in 1886, retains much of its classic atmosphere and gives the feeling of being inside an art gallery. In the 1920s, the hotel was famous for staging plays within its walls. The flowered patio offers the perfect setting to dine under the stars, while the tearoom gives off a classic English chic vibe. With just 32 rooms, the hotel is exceptionally intimate. Each room is delightfully unique, with period furniture sourced from all across Europe. At the same time, you get all the modern conveniences and comfort, from free Wi-Fi to state-of-the-art bathrooms, you are guaranteed to feel welcome and comfortable throughout your stay.

Albatross was easy enough to find, but making contact proved more difficult. Exceptionally cautious and yet seemingly relaxed, he was rarely alone, often in the company of Hemingway and other writers. Life here is very different from London; it seems to operate 24/7...

Modern Madrid is no less restless, passionate and fun loving; a city that truly never sleeps. From your home in the heart of the city, there’s so much to see and explore. Within walking distance, or if you jump in a taxi or on the Metro, there are hundreds of cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs, shops and tourist attractions. It is a city that will capture your heart, making you want to come back again to immerse yourself in life lived at a different pace.

Contact was made, finally. While at the bar ordering a scotch, we exchanged code phrases. He delivered the intelligence I came for and it was time to go – reluctantly, as I was just starting to enjoy myself in this incredible city!