Condado Vanderbilt Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico has been a long time coming—ten years, to be exact. Finally re-opened this December, the once historic hotel has undergone a $200 million revitalization which included the construction of new Suite Towers.
Originally built in 1919 by Frederick William Vanderbilt and designed by architectural firm Warren and Wetmore, the hotel was once a playground for industry icons, heads of state, Hollywood celebs and royalty alike. Today, the renovated property holds 319 guestrooms and 108 suites ranging from 295-square-feet to the 3,000-square-foot three-bedroom Vanderbilt Penthouse East and West Suites. All accommodations come with views of San Juan or the Atlantic Ocean, French windows, custom made rich wood dressing areas and plush beds with Rivolta Carmignani linens.
Spacious suites are dressed in African mahogany wood detailing and boast custom-designed lighting elements by designer Jorge Roselló along with high ceilings and kitchenette areas with Sub-Zero® refrigerators. The penthouse suites rest at the top of each tower and offer butler service 24-hours a day, living areas with seating for six, a bar, a dining area, and fully furnished terraces.
Around the resort there are two pool lounge areas and a private beach with lounge chairs, towels and, of course, cocktail service. The West Tower pool area will feature a 200-square-foot mirrored pool and waterfall, while its second pool will be an infinity-edge that overlooks the Atlantic. One of our favorite amenities, however, is the 10,000-square-foot spa and fitness center which will feature seven treatment rooms and the country’s first hammam. Designed by Rossello, the spa will also offer beauty and consultation services along with a customized Aroma Blending Bar. Guests will be able to create their own signature fragrance blends from the organic beauty line.
When it comes to dining, the property opened 1919 restaurant back in 2012 and has now added its second venue with the introduction of a new eatery helmed by Chef Juan Jose Cuevas. The Michelin-starred chef’s restaurant will be a casual 1950s-esque setting serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. With an open, indoor-outdoor vibe, the restaurant will be decorated in shades of powder blue.
Once considered the Grand Dame of hotels in Puerto Rico, the revitalized Condado Vanderbilt hotel seems to be in the right position to begin making its way back on top as a prestigious property in San Juan. Located nearby to local attractions, a number of local restaurants and high-end shopping boutiques, it’s definitely a resort to consider on your next trip to the country. Room rates start at $350/night for guestrooms and $650/night for suites.
