Hard Rock heads to Madrid

Spain, already one of the top European destinations for holiday-makers, has just added another reason for sun-seekers to take their vacation there, with the opening of Hard Rock's first hotel in Europe.

The famous chain of bars and restaurants has announced that it is opening its first Hard Rock hotel in Europe, located in the Spanish capital, Madrid.

Hard Rock has embarked on the venture with Spain's largest hotelier, Sol Melia, which will transform and modernise the historic Gran Hotel Reina Victoria.

Trevor Horwell, vice president of Hard Rock Hotels, said: "We are thrilled to bring the Hard Rock hotels to Europe for the very first time.

"The Hard Rock Hotel in Madrid will epitomise the ideal of urban luxury and is guaranteed to deliver to our guests the unique and dynamic experience for which Hard Rock has become famous."

The executive vice president of development at Sol Melia hotels has also promised a breath-taking finished product, unlike anything the Spanish capital has seen before.

Angel Palomino said: "Sol Melia, known for its world-class properties, will bring to our loyal guests and locals the most exciting destination hotel concept that Madrid has ever seen."

"The Hotel Rock Hotel in Madrid will be a valuable asset to the city while serving as a paradigm for future European Hard Rock hotels," he added,

The new hotel is being worked on by renowned British architect Keith Hobbs, who intends to turn it into a sophisticated yet sensual, modern space.

As well as featuring a number of traditional bars, the hotel will also incorporate a roof-top bar, to make the most of the hazy afternoons and romantic sunsets Madrid has to offer.

The 192-room hotel is scheduled to open in spring next year.