Images Courtesy Gran Melia
Story by Joseph Alexiou
Earlier this month the charming Spanish city of Sevilla saw the grand opening of the Gran Melia Colón Hotel—the historic location of the original Colón hotel, which opened in 1929. Although they're not gay-owned, like Axel hotels, Gran Melia is a gay friendly company, and Sevilla is a vibrant city with plenty to do for the LGBTs.
Carefully restored, the hotel's façade and interior architecture are beautiful examples of the neo-baroque style that was popular during the early 20th century. Located in the old quarter of Sevilla, the new design and renovation pay careful homage to the Spanish Baroque movement, with beautifully designed corridors featuring modern art and freshly modern décor in the rooms.
To say that the hotel is a work of art is no hyperbole; each suite door in the hotel features replicas of masterpieces by celebrated Spanish artists such as Goya, Murilla, El Greco, and Valázquez. The interior of the rooms have clean lines, are well let, and decked out with original Philippe Stark and Marcel Wanders furniture.
Along with the 21st century rooms, fully equipped with wifi, iPod docs, and all the similar media sundries, the Gran Melia also offers a "RedLevel" luxury service, which features all sorts of perks like VIP treatment while dining or at the spa, a personal concierge and private butler, espresso machines in the suite, and exclusive access to the Living Room—the hotel's private lounge for VIP guests. For the truly high-end there is a 950 sq ft. Penthouse suite ("The Clothed Maja") with a 1,500 sq. ft. terrace.
Wrapping up this fabulous reopening is chef Dani Garcia's former in-hotel restaurant, the former "El Burladero." This restaurant was famous in Sevilla, and is now known as "Burladero, Tapas & Tintos by Dani Garcia." The youngest-ever Michelin star chef is famous for his innovative menus that blend traditional Andalusian tastes and international flair.
We're excited thinking about our next trip to the south of Spain—the blending of historic architecture and art with modern convenience is the perfect way to experience old and new Spain, each with its own charm. And especially in such a beautifully historic, yet manageable city such as Sevilla.
