☰ CP Magazine:

Hotel Montera Madrid, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, offers a luxurious and authentic stay right in the heart of the Spanish capital. This neoclassical building, dating back to 1924, provides a modern twist on traditional Castilian design with elegant details that pay homage to its heritage. Inspired by the iconic Spanish “montera” hat, this influence is seen throughout the hotel, from the artwork to the intricate trim on the headboards in its 93 rooms, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary luxury.

Fedora, beret, boater, deerstalker, fez, turban, top hat, straw hat… and, of course, the montera—the iconic hat worn by bullfighters. Black and round with two distinctive protruding sides, it stands out as one of the most unique and striking hats, with a remarkable visual impact. It is a sample of elegance and tradition, although nowadays it is used mainly as an ornament. Matadors use it to dedicate a bullfight to the person of their choice or to the general audience. This emblematic piece of headwear has inspired the name of one of Madrid’s most spectacular recent hotel openings, a city that has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the realm of grand luxury hotels.

Hotel Montera Madrid marks the debut of the Curio Collection by Hilton in the Spanish capital. Known for offering distinctive accommodations in exceptional locations, the brand has chosen a building over 100 years old on the vibrant and lively Calle Montera, at the corner of Gran Vía—one of Madrid’s most iconic avenues, often compared to New York’s 5th Avenue for its bustling theaters, musicals, boutiques, and the constant flow of tourists mingling with locals. The 10-story hotel boasts 93 rooms, including 8 exclusive suites, a refined restaurant, three terraces, and a stunning rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the city. It also offers private event spaces, making it a true reflection of Madrid’s cosmopolitan, sociable, and open atmosphere.

What truly stands out is the elegance and refined taste in the hotel’s design. Spanish designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán was selected to bring to life a concept inspired by the eclectic and contrasting, yet deeply authentic character of Calle Montera. With great sensitivity, he has seamlessly blended a sophisticated and elegant contemporary style with subtle underground elements, all while embracing the neoclassical architecture of the historic building, originally constructed in 1924.

Since the building is protected, key elements like the facade, entrance hall materials, central staircase, and courtyard had to be preserved. To enhance their appeal, a bold graphic design was incorporated. The rest of the structure underwent a complete renovation, with the entire interior being demolished, leaving only the facades and floors intact. This approach allowed for the optimization of the number of rooms, ensuring they offer the perfect dimensions for a comfortable and pleasant stay.

The common areas capture the playful, free-spirited essence of Madrid, with vibrant colours filling every corner, reflecting the cheerful and sociable nature of the city’s locals. In contrast, as you approach the rooms, the palette becomes more subdued, with darker tones creating a calming atmosphere. This gradual shift in mood helps promote relaxation and offers a peaceful retreat for guests looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the streets, ensuring maximum comfort and rest.

The hotel features a stunning artwork by renowned Madrid artist Miguel Caravaca—a 40-meter-tall installation that adorns the panoramic windows of the main elevator. As the elevator ascends from the ground floor to the 10th floor, guests can admire the piece, which showcases characters and scenes iconic to Madrid, all rendered in Caravaca’s distinctive style.

 

HOTEL ROOMS TRANSFORMED INTO A CITY SANCTUARY
The rooms of Hotel Montera offer a serene and welcoming retreat from the lively energy of Gran Vía, embodying an elegant and refined take on the traditional Castilian style. Elements such as arched doorways, wicker banquettes, neutral tones, rounded mirror and painting frames, and delicate headboard trimmings serve as contemporary interpretations of classic Spanish decor. A standout feature is the gallant, which adds the perfect touch of sophistication and distinction. The result is a timeless interior design that combines noble materials with an urban flair, all crafted using traditional local techniques.

THE MOST EXCLUSIVE ROOFTOP
The 10th-floor rooftop, “El Cielo de Chicote,” is a must-visit spot, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Madrid. As a sister bar to the famous Museo Chicote, this rooftop cocktail haven serves up drinks inspired by the local expression “De Madrid al Cielo” (From Madrid to the Heaven). Paired with a dip in the open-air pool or lounging on Balinese beds, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the city.

Dining at Hotel Montera is an experience in itself. La Braserí restaurant serves a mix of local Madrilenian flavors with international influences, offering casual yet sophisticated dining on the 9th floor, with stunning views of Gran Vía. For a more relaxed setting, the bar boasts a stunning gold finish and handmade mosaic, adding elegance to its world-class cocktail menu.

The hotel’s location places you just steps away from some of Madrid’s top attractions, like the vibrant Gran Vía, where you’ll find boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. Also nearby are cultural landmarks such as the Museo del Prado and the Royal Palace, making this hotel an ideal base for exploring the city.

Entering Hotel Montera Madrid is an invitation to discover the most authentic side of Madrid, where tradition and modernity intertwine in a continuous dialogue, revealing the true beauty of the city.