URSO Hotel & Spa – luxury, excellence, and comfort in Madrid

Located in a privileged enclave between Madrid central districts of Chamberí, Tribunal, and Chueca. URSO Hotel & Spa integrates the royal character of the bourgeois architecture of Madrid during the 20th-century, with the modernity and comfort of a modern luxury hotel. Mr Hudson speaks to Victor Vacas, General Manager, about the history, the values, and the special design of the hotel.

Tell us a about the history of your hotel

URSO Hotel & Spa was constructed in 1915 to be the headquarters of the Spanish Paper Company, which was the only company producing paper in Spain; actually, we still keep the library where the relevant documents were kept. This space has been untouched and can be enjoyed at its entire splendour.

“We aim to achieve excellence in what we do and strive to be a respectful and honest team that works from the heart”

What are the values of your establishment?

Delivering a personalized and authentic experience is key for the entire URSO team. For that, we have to be creative to surprise our guests. We aim to achieve excellence in what we do and strive to be a respectful and honest team that works from the heart.

“Small details as the traditional violets candy will take guests to the time of King Alfonso XIII”

What makes your property special?

A thorough design was made to create URSO. Every detail was taken into consideration to inspire our guests. They will feel as a madrileño from the very first moment when an entrance decorated with original medallions by Ruiz de Luna (a very famous ceramist from Talavera de la Reina) will welcome them. A unique collection of pictures by Rajel showing Madrid in the 20s, 30s and 40s, spread through the Hotel, showing how the city has changed, or small details as the traditional violets candy will take them to the time of King Alfonso XIII.

How has hospitality evolved over the last decade or so?

We have seen many relevant changes in the last decade. Still, I would like to specially mention the commitment that this industry has with reducing the plastic waste, which was something unthinkable not long time ago.

How important is design these days as part of the hotel experience?

This is very much related to being an inspiring place.

What makes Madrid such a great destination?

Madrid keeps the essence of one of the “grand” European cities with its Royal Palace, Opera house and Almudena church but it is also a city with blue skies for much of the year perfect for strolling the town and enjoying the street life, not forgetting the gastronomy that goes from one of the oldest restaurants of the world to the craziest cuisine. Madrileños for sure make the difference being friendly and welcoming.