Despite being slightly obscured by a (thankfully under-used) petrol station, the HN Alberto Aguilera certainly looks the part – a modern eight-story hotel that dominates a corner on Madrid’s busy Calle de Alberto Aguilera. Only 25-30 minutes from the airport (an evening journey, I might add) the hotel occupies a convenient location, being served by an abundance of taxis, and only a short stroll from the nearby ‘Arguelles’ or ‘San Bernardo’ Metro stations.
The rooms are of an excellent standard, and appear to be regularly (and thoroughly) maintained. The only drawback is the paper-thin walls and proliferation of wooden floors, which meant that, during my stay, the tip-tapping of high heels and the dull drone of a wheeled suitcase could be easily heard from the floor above, not to mention the amorous couple in the room next door! Annoyingly, the “double” bed comprised two single beds shoved together, which kind of took away the point, but nevertheless, the mattress and pillows were very comfortable.
Wi-fi is available in all of the rooms, but sadly (and all too commonly) at an extortionate cost. The mini-bar was well-stocked with a variety of products – at least for the first night that is. On a number of occasions, I had to ask for it to be re-stocked (with water, I might add – nothing stronger!). This was slightly annoying as it led to some confusion as to what items I had taken that day and what items had still to be re-stocked! Nevertheless, this was swiftly resolved by the very efficient staff, and the itemised bill at the end of my stay seemed to add up correctly.
Breakfast was served in the someone soulless restaurant (the views obscured by that bloody petrol station again!), although a wide range of hot and cold buffet items more than made up for it. I never actually tried the restaurant in the evening, so I cannot vouch for the atmosphere at that time of day, although the bar always seemed somewhat under-used and it closed very early for a hotel. Overall, I would say that the three stars awarded to this hotel are pretty much justified. The hotel is a little rough around the edges perhaps in places, but overall I enjoyed a very satisfying stay at a convenient, well-run establishment.
- Nh Alberto Aguilera Madrid
- Nh Hotels Madrid
