A WALK IN MADRID
” A traditional and classic experience at Mandarin Oriental – Ritz Hotel and its surroundings”
Model and actress: Alba Fernández | Photographer: Jaime Erice
The Mandarin Oriental Ritz hotel of Madrid reopened last April after a 3 year renno- vation. The exquisite work by architecture firm Rafael de La-Hoz along with interior decorators Gilles & Boissier highlights the classic elements of french architect Charles Mewès’ 1908 original work. It unites past and present with subtle gestures that propel the hotel toward the new forthcoming post pandemic future.
Under a large glass roof, in the luxurious space where the Palm Court restaurant is located, we meet the model, actress and life- style blogger, Alba Fernández. We chatted about her career and professional trajectory.
“We don’t have to be afraid of trying new things or looking for work in other corners of the world, but the idea of settling in one place attracts me more and more”
Alba tells us about her extensive career that has taken her from a small town in Valladolid to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
This spectacular property is the epitome of luxury and excellence with a fascinat- ing and thoughtful resto- ration that honours the pio- neering spirit of César Ritz.
Alba shares her most classy & chic yet contemporary and comfortable style, combining Zara basics (90’s style jeans, asymmetric black top, tweed jacket with shoulder pads in the purest Coco Chanel style and cut leather boots classic) with accessories from Chanel (the timeless 2.55 bag) and Tag Heuer (limited edition Formula 1 watch).
From the Palm Court, we went to the Ritz Gardens, another restaurant located on a wonderful terrace outside the hotel.
Here the double staircase takes center stage in the outdoor space, dividing the terrace into two levels surrounded by plant elements that isolate the diner from the bustle of the city. A
part from the Palm Court and the Ritz Gardens, the hotel has other culinary spaces, including its star restaurant, Deessa, the first gastronomic experience of the award-winning chef Quique Dacosta in Madrid.
After a change of wardrobe, we left the hotel to go on foot to another historical relic of the capital that is a must for anyone who passes through Madrid: Buen Retiro Park.
The park from 1680 has in its interior a collection of emblematic constructions such as the monument to Alfonso XII from the beginning of the 20th century next to the pond or the Crystal Palace from the end of the 19th century.
In these majestic spaces surrounded by nature, Alba wore a look with a light green Zara jacket suit that both stands out and integrates with this wonderful environment.
After this meeting with Alba, it is clear that a visit to the Ritz Hotel is a must for all its culinary offerings, its magical spaces, its new facilities and the beauty of its classic architecture accentuated by its new reform. Its location, in the “Golden Triangle of Art” is the added value that makes it the perfect place to stay and enjoy the historic heart of Madrid.
