Who has not ever heard of Gehry Hotel? It was perhaps one of the oldest wineries in the Rioja Alava. But the truth is that it was first known for its classical name of the Marquis de Riscal. The hotel that was made by the Canadian-born architect Frank Gehry, made of titanium covers that look like a mauve hat and golden ripples overlooking the view on Elciego hill. The culprit is the City of Wine. The project justified even show architectural dose necessary to achieve the effect called on the international clientele that pays currently one of the highest rates of the hotel industry in Spain.
It is said that the architect accepted the commission because it was in his presence uncorked a bottle of 1929, the year of his birth. And there they stood with their titaniums, as he had done years ago at the Guggenheim in Bilbao. The 43 rooms do not pass an exam on the spatiality of luxury. Not to mention those located opposite affected by humidity and chlorine odors spa, built on the lower deck. Or the meager corner of the restaurant, despite its great view. Or the kitchen treats, hidden from the public, and that the service must tiptoe between the kitchen to avoid tripping over the plates.
By sleight of hand, the international group Starwood, through his renowned The Luxury Collection brand, get a flawless management of the complex. Because it is easy to get around in it, nor easily detect the movement of guests to be aware of their needs and desires. Even given generously internal scheduled visits to the winery, which is the culmination of stay. Nobody leaves here without a box of wine at a good price. And the memory of a delicious dinner designed by Francis Paniego winner of two Michelin stars.
Attract or not Gehry’s architecture, the heirs of the Marqués de Riscal wine exported today more than yesterday, and the hotel is undoubtedly the best known of Spain in the international tourist scene.
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By Nick K.
Marqués de Riscal photos: jaimefranch, theluxurycollection, VenaCo,
