Hotel Check: NH Collection Madrid Suecia

HOW MANY ROOMS? 123 rooms and suites

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS:  Different from other hotels in town, its Nordic style and historic interior gives it plenty of character. Its location makes it ideal for both tourists and business travelers.

PRICE: Internet rates for a traditional room on the random dates we checked start at $146.

WHERE IS IT:  Just behind Palacio de las Bellas Artes, this hotel has an excellent location within walking distance of Gran Via, Retiro Park, Puerta del Sol, and all of the famous art museums in town. Close to popular theaters and great dining, this hotel is an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? With an interior of blond wood and light colors, the Nordic sensation is felt from the moment you walk inside the sliding doors. The main entrance may be tough to find for some as it looks like it’s the entrance to a restaurant, but the art deco writing on the glass leads you directly into this cozy hotel. Friendly staff is on hand to assist with luggage, and the station with flavored water, fresh fruit, and candy is a welcome touch. Once a center for all things Swedish in Madrid (from offices to a market), this building has been converted into a hotel while retaining its name Casa Suecia. Its history precedes the hotel’s popularity as this was a hot spot for Ernest Hemingway where he would mingle with locals in the bar. Che Guevara also called this building home for some time while in Madrid; there is a lot of history here.

ROOM FACILITIES:  Guest rooms are bright thanks to large windows and ample lighting including individual bedside lamps adjusted by waving your hand. Large photographic prints behind the bed add to the stylish setup of these colorful rooms. Flat-screen TVs face the beds, which come with cozy duvets and three sizes of pillows on either side. Bedside power and USB outlets are modern points of distinction. Minibars, safes, and large closets with robes and slippers round out the amenities. I particularly liked that there was both a Nespresso machine and hot water kettle. Free wireless Internet is provided to all guests although the signal can fluctuate at times. Bathrooms are spacious with glassed-in shower stalls and water closets. Soaking tubs and wide vanities deliver plentiful towels and toiletries including separate lotions for the hands and body. Some rooms face the interior of the building, but the Premium units facing the neighboring courtyard are especially popular. Those with small terraces add to the experience.

RESTAURANTS AND BARS:  The hotel’s main dining room enjoys views of the street and serves three meals a day from a colorful breakfast buffet to a menu later in the day serving both regional and Nordic specialties. More exotic is the bar on the first floor where live music and craft cocktails entertain both guests and locals.

LEISURE FACILITIES:  On the bottom floor is a modern fitness center with cardio equipment and a fridge stocked with bottled and energy waters. Fresh fruit and plentiful towels are available.

BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES:  Free wireless Internet works everywhere, and the meeting rooms offer the latest audiovisual equipment. Each is named with Nordic destinations paying homage to the hotel’s history.

VERDICT: NH Collection hotels are known for their upscale individuality and excellent service. This property is no exception although its unique Scandinavian décor adds a special touch to the capital’s hotel scene.

CONTACT: NH Collection Madrid Suecia, Calle del Marqués de Casa Riera 4, 28014, Madrid, Spain. Phone +34-912-000-570. www.nh-collection.com