Madrid has a taste for drama. It displays a series of cultural flourishes ranging from the staged spectacles of bullfighting and flamenco to the structured phenomenon of the Prado with its unsurpassable collection of European art to the stylish treats to be found at Las Rozas Village. Only 30 minutes from the centre of town, behind the Village’s white stucco walls, lie the world’s leading Spanish and international designer labels at a very dramatic, year-round price reduction of up to 60%*. David Beckham, the world’s most fashion-forward footballer and a visitor to Las Rozas Village, can’t be wrong. It’s also safe enough for him to bring his children and exclusive enough to please his wife Victoria Beckham – not to mention singer Amaya Montero, TV Show presenter Anne Igartiburu, and the model Ariadne Artiles, among other famous Spanish personalities – to shop in its sun-swept streets. (On Saturdays, Madrid Shopping Tour operates a shopping round trip, which can drop you at the Village door.)
If you also have a taste for the theatrical, CH Carolina Herrera Company Store should satisfy your thespian aspirations, while Versace is never, ever short on drama. Madrid fashion week continues to grow in stature and the home-grown Spanish designers Loewe, Antonio Miro, Pedro del Hierro and Roberto Verino, vibrantly coloured Custo Barcelona and Spain’s beloved Purificación Garcia, which chose to open its first ever outlet boutique here, show you why. Comfortable and affordable shoemaker Camper is here, as is Bimba & Lola for chic urban style.
Armand Basi is here with its own tale on Spanish chic, whilst Italy is represented here by Ermenegildo Zegna, La Perla and Versace, as well as Diesel with its hallmark casual look and accessories. There is also a chance to snap up the English style of menswear brand Hackett. Belstaff is utterly hip and Lacoste is completely classic while no one does jeans better than all-American Calvin Klein.
In cultures where the afternoon siesta is programmed into every day, a lovely hotel is all the more necessary and Madrid does not disappoint. The classic choice would be the Ritz, a leading light for over a century. The on-trend choice might be the new Hospes Madrid with its clean lines and cutting-edge design. High Tech Hotels are the smart budget choice offering cosy service – there are more than 20 of these to be found in the historical neighbourhoods of Madrid and Salamanca. And any Madrid itinerary should include a visit to the monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, built by King Felipe II, and just 20 minutes from Las Rozas Village. Here you can admire the breathtaking view of the Sierra. For fantastic views of the surrounding area, visitors can take a funicular railway to the foot of the 152 metre high stone cross and from there take the lift up to the arms of the cross. Spectacular.
Fresh from siesta, the nightlife beckons and, if you’re feeling confident, El Negro de Anglona is the place to spot stars and the most beautiful madrileños. Ramses is another hip choice, serving modern, international haute cuisine. For a more relaxed but equally sceney experience, brunch at El Jardin del Intercontinental is the last word in laid-back cool.
Vogue Russia recently exclaimed that the “fashion-haven” of Las Rozas Village is “the perfect choice for a retail excursion combined with exploring the hidden gems of the region”. For some pure Spanish melodrama, look no further than the gem Corral de la Moreria, which has been open for over 50 years and is the best-known tablao flamenco in the world while Plaza del Toros de las Ventas – Madrid’s bullring – offers guided tours for those interested in the atmosphere and history of the sport. So you can explore the world of bullfighting without witnessing the violence, just as at Las Rozas Village you can stretch your holiday budget and pick up high fashion without the sting.
