I went to Madrid because it was raining at home – so this was a last-minute decision and I found this hotel by accident. If only all accidents were this wonderful.
It’s in a busy street in La Latina – the heart of the old city. The street is lined with restaurants and tapas bars, so you’re never short of a little light refreshment once the sun has gone down.
But there is no noble entrance, no sweeping staircase, no flunkey on the door. I walked past it several times before I found it. I walked through a small bar to a tiny counter – all that they need for ‘reception.’ Yet the welcome couldn’t have been warmer. I was taken to a spotless room, with modern bathroom and a balcony with a view of the street. That night I was too weary to join the general street shenanigans but I watched from my balcony with a glass of rioja. There are worse ways to spend the first night.
Beyond the bar is a wonderful restaurant – serving some of the best food I had in Madrid. Some tables are in a narrow courtyard; others are in a small room with a glass floor with a view of the walls of the ancient city beneath your feet.
Breakfast is in the bar – with plenty of fruit and croissants and freshly cooked eggs for those who want them.
So why have I only given this hotel four stars? I loved it – but access to the lift would be a struggle with a wheelchair. And, if you have a room at the front (as I did) the street noise continues until midnight and sometimes beyond. It didn’t disturb me, but light sleepers needing an early night might struggle.
But I’d go back tomorrow, given half a chance … now there’s a thought …
“Find more details on the hotel website”:http://www.posadadeldragon.com/EN/
