Apartment Madrid Palacio

I only had one night at the Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá before heading on to the Canary Islands, and wished I could've stayed longer. They welcomed us like we were coming home, with such lovely hospitality. The breakfast buffet had a great selection, too. I'm a big Marriott loyalist, but I'll make a point of staying here next time I'm in town.

The room and location were both great, but the hotel didn't quite meet my expectations for five stars. It felt more like a four-star stay, and breakfast was just okay. The water bottles in the room hadn't been filled, either. The rooftop jacuzzi shown in the pictures was apparently closed. Staff recommended going up for the view, but when I tried the door was shut. I called, and they said they wouldn't open it because it was slippery.

The concierge was so helpful and pointed us to lots of great places. Our room had everything we could need and then some. Honestly, the staff, rooms, restaurant, service, breakfast, all of it was 10/10. We had a wonderful stay and I can't wait to come back next time I'm in Madrid.

What really made this hotel was the staff. From the concierge and restaurant team to the attendants and valet, everyone went out of their way to help. They even worked with airport staff to track down our lost baggage while we were sightseeing, even though we didn't speak Spanish fluently. The free car service was another nice surprise, with English-speaking drivers and limo-style seating. Our Club Red access was worth it, with an open bar and quiet dining areas. The room was excellent and had a hair iron, steam iron, welcome fruit, and even plugs that worked with American devices. We appreciated those details since our checked bags were missing. The gym was well equipped, and the rooftop had lovely views in the morning and at sunset. The location was great too, within walking distance of the palace and other highlights. The staff's service was Ritz-Carlton level, honestly putting the hotel at six stars, if six were an option.