Smack in the middle of , Gran Vía, sits Hyatt Centric Gran Vía. This relatively new brand for Hyatt places an important focus on being in the neighborhoods that draw visitors and local energy. In Madrid, this Hyatt Centric fits the mark. Its historic building and interior design story add to the experience. Here are five reasons it’s worth a visit to .
The rooms
Glass elevators pass through an interior atrium with Spanish fans suspended in the air. Rooms are bright with hardwood floors, comfortable beds, small sitting areas and wide desks with cleverly placed power outlets.
The position of the building means that rooms in the front of colorful and energetic views of the main street. While there is a bit of noise associated with this, the buzz is why many people choose to stay in this part of town. For those that want maximum quiet, rooms on the side and in the back of the building are quieter. Bathrooms stock sustainable BeeKind toiletries from wall-mounted bottles in the glass showers; some rooms have soaking tubs.
Premium rooms come with small balconies overlooking the action, and suites add more living space. Many of these have furnished balconies with beautiful views of Gran Vía and the surrounding rooftops. If you don’t spring for a suite, don’t worry, you can still catch the views on the top floor of the hotel.
The interior design and history
This art deco building with a 19th century facade is rich with history and intrigue. The decoration tells the story of the neighborhood’s broadcasting history, including of the former radio building across the street. Music-themed decor and art fill the common areas of the lobby and the lounge.
References to Madrid are notable in the cat motif in the guest room accent pillows. Madrileños are playfully called gatos or “cats” in Spanish. Notable quotes from well-known writers also line the walls. These line the original spiral staircase with handmade banister leading all the way to the top floors.
On the top floor, guests can see one of the building’s original beams that was damaged during a bomb strike during the Spanish Civil War. The weapon was originally headed for the Telefónica building across the street (head of the local telecommunications company), but bad aim led it to what is now the Hyatt Centric today. It is now displayed amidst doves as a symbol of peace and art.
The food and drinks
The lobby is home to Ondas, the in-house vermutería and lounge. Spanish vermouth (a fortified wine that is also used in cocktails) is immensely popular, especially as an aperitif with tapas before dinner. The lounge has a wide range of offers, but it should just be a starting point as there are not many views from inside. After a drink, head to Hielo y Carbon popular charcoal steakhouse and raw bar restaurant that has spectacular views of Gran Vía.
From this vantage point, the action and lights of the city illuminate the space. For those that have breakfast here, the space may be familiar. It’s where an impressive Cava breakfast buffet is available each morning with dishes cooked to order. Spanish products and preparation are the focus here, which means the restaurant appeals to more than just hotel guests. Locals and tourists from around town should make this a go-to venue for its views and variety of Spanish dishes like platters of aged chuleton, calamari sandwiches with aioli and Sarmiento smoked cod. Don’t miss the mojo sauce that comes from the Canary Islands.
Even better most food and drink purchases here, even for non-guests, are eligible for World of Hyatt points earning. Just present you World of Hyatt number when paying the check, and be sure to keep the receipt in case you need to send it in later. It’s a great way to be rewarded while indulging in local cuisine.
The rooftop
Aside from the views, the rooftop also plays an important role in the hotel’s food and beverage scene. Madrid is known for its amazing rooftop bars, and this hotel has one of the best in this part of town. El Jardin de Diana (named for the Roman god) is a favorite of locals, especially in seasonal weather when the terrace is fully opening. The towering buildings with their majestic architecture provide the perfect backdrop to the exotic cocktail concoctions from the bar and the tasty tapas that go with it. Be sure to snap a photo with the five-foot tall statue of the terrace’s namesake.
During the year, the hotel offers special options like its recent hit, a fondue menu with everything from bread and veggies to pickles and sausage dunked into the bubbling cheese. On many evenings, reservations are a must, especially if you’re after the decadent chocolate fondue. Coming to this 10th floor venue without a camera would be a sin.
The thoughtful extras
In addition to in-room boxed water, there are refilling stations in the lobby. One floor below is the fitness center that is open at all hours. On the ceiling is an entertaining drawing of skydivers returning to earth. Like many other Hyatt family properties, the hotel offers guests a host of extra items that they may have forgotten like hair ties, mouthwash and other toiletries. If you want to commemorate your stay here, be sure to stop by the selfie booth in the lobby. For those that want to get out and explore, they can borrow one of the hotel’s scooters.
Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a big difference when it comes to hospitality, and this Hyatt Centric is a great example of what the brand is trying to represent.
