When visiting Madrid, I always start my trip with a session of meditation or a cycling tour around El Pardo Park. Some parts are inaccessible and fenced off as art of the King’s hunting grounds, howerver this beautiful park is packed with wild boars and deer, making it a guaranteed winner if you’re visiting the city with kids. The town of El pardo was previously home to several Spanish monarchs and boats a spectacular Royal Palace, in addition to several military installations.
That first morning I enjoy a healthy breakfast at Huerto de Lucas, which serves a great selection of organic and sustainable dishes.
Afterwards, visit the renowned PradoMuseum. This is one of Marid’s top cultural sights, and one of the world’s greatest art galleries. Afterwards, grab a coffee in nearby Café Murillo on Ruiz de Alarcon Street. Alarnatively, you can stroll around ‘Madrid de los Austrias’ and visit The Almudena Cathedral. This walk takes you through fantastis palaces and manicured gardens, before you end up outside the magnificant Opera Place. Lunch at Olivia Te Cuida, before an afternoon of designer shopping at Ortegay Gasset Street – this is a real must. Watching the sunset at Debod Temple, before dinning at Ten Con Ten on Ayala Street is the perfect end to a perfect day.
I usually stay at Villamagna Hotel, which offers spacious and bright accommodation. Empire chairs, Bauhaus concepts and Chinese screens are combined here, to create a welcoming and luxurious atmosphere. The Tartan Roof –a restaurent located on the top of The Circulo Bellas Artes – is one of Europe’s most important cultural centers and one of my favourite places to dine. The Principal Hotel also offers a picturesque rooftop terrace ideal for watching an unforgetable sunset. Afterwards, clink glasses at Cottet on Serrano Street.
Fashion conscious travellers should visit the thriving Salesas District. Not only is this region expanding its borders; it’s broadening its horizons. Litterd with elegant shops featuring local designers, you shouldn’t miss out on Argensola Street. Serrano Street also has a wonderful atmosphere and is crammed – full with luxury brands.
Madrid also has a beautiful beach, surrounded by the countryside – you feel as though you’re on the Nordie Fjords here.
My own SHA Wellness Clinic in altea, Alicante, is only two hours away by train and the perfect place to rest , relax and detoxify. And if you’re flying out of Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport, you can enjoy the wholesome organic food we offer time-poor travellers at Esenza by SHA.
Source: Alejandro Bataller
