The Basilica of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is located at the centre of the Monastery complex and its interior is breathtakingly beautiful and awesome. The hour’s journey by bus or train to this refuge of kings and monks is well worth the effort. Designed by Juan de Herrera in 1562 one only has to gaze on the splendour and beauty of his creation to understand why he was known as a master-architect. Although parts of the monastery are not open to the public there is still much to see in this place with its mild climate, situated on the wall of the Sierra de Guadarrama.

With so much to see and do in the marvellous Madrid city, it will be quite an acheivement if you get to spend much time in your choice of the quality Madrid hotels. Make sure you try a number of the fabulous Madrid restaurants.