Elite Traveler January-February 2016

elite traveler JAN/FEB 2016 117

OUT OF TOWN

FOR CULTURE: Toledo The historic city of Toledo is a melting pot of cultures. Founded by the Romans, it is recognized as the city of three cultures and tolerance – for more than 400 years Muslims, Jews and Christians lived here in harmony. You’ll find traces of all three cultures as you explore the impressive monuments within the walled old city. Stay at the Hotel Fontecruz, the former palace of Empress Eugenia de Montijo. fontecruzhoteles.com FOR FOOD: Segovia In a city where restaurants are principally known for cooking perfect roast suckling pig, young local chef Rubén Arnanz has shaken things up at Restaurant Villena. His tasting menu has won many plaudits, and his avant-garde cooking has regained the Michelin star that Villena lost when it closed down and its chef left before relocating in 2014. The restaurant is inside the city’s only five-star hotel, Eurostars Convento Capuchinos, a 400-year-old former monastery now converted into a boutique hotel. eurostarsconventocapuchinos.com

Suite ME MEMadrid Reina Victoria Located in the literary area of Madrid overlooking the picturesque Plaza Santa Ana, the ME Reina Victoria is popular with business leaders and celebrities. Suite ME occupies two floors and covers 1,614 sq ft. The top floor of the suite is located in the tower of the building. The large terrace features a chill out area, while the second terrace has a hot tub. Perks include a personal assistant to organize anything from in-room dinner parties and drinks to meetings or massage therapy. The ME Rooftop bar is among the top night spots in Madrid. From $2,740 a night melia.com

FOR HISTORY: El Escorial The main reason to head to San Lorenzo de El Escorial is to visit the imposing monastery, an important monument of the Spanish Renaissance, which has also been named a Unesco World Heritage Site. The lavish interiors of the buildings were decorated by distinguished 16th and 17th century artists and include works by El Greco and Claudio Coello. Enjoy dinner at the Michelin-starred Montia where the chefs base the menu on foraging and seasonal produce. montia.es