Galería Canalejas, one of the icons of luxury in the heart of Madrid, is about to undergo a transformation. The space, which until recently was known for its haute cuisine food hall next to the Four Seasons Hotel, is preparing to bid farewell to restaurants as we knew them and welcome a 2,200-square-meter mega-spa that promises to become the capital’s new temple of urban wellness. The project is being led by Aire Ancient Baths, a firm specializing in bathing experiences inspired by Greco-Roman traditions, and represents an investment of 21.5 million euros, in addition to the creation of around 100 jobs. The spa will occupy the lower level of the complex, with a separate entrance on Calle Alcalá, directly below the hotel and the luxury boutiques.cincodias.
The move marks a strategic shift from gastronomy to relaxation. Following the closure of the dining area in 2024, the owner of the shopping center, OHLA, has sought a new tenant capable of reinforcing Galería Canalejas’ identity as a destination for premium experiences—and not just as a shopping center.
What will Madrid’s new spa be like?
The new spa will be spread across a spacious area of approximately 2,200 square meters, designed with various water circuits, relaxation areas, and treatment rooms. Although the full details of the proposal have not yet been revealed, the Aire Ancient Baths brand typically combines pools of varying temperatures, hot and cold baths, flotation areas, steam rooms, and relaxation corners in its centers—where silence, soft lighting, and music contribute to creating an immersive atmosphere. The decision to include a separate entrance on Alcalá Street underscores that the spa will function as a destination in its own right, with direct access, without the need to pass through the hotel lobby or the shopping area.
This move comes at a time when Madrid has been strengthening its urban wellness offerings for years. The Four Seasons Hotel Madrid’s own spa, spanning 1,400 square meters across four floors, had already established itself as Spain’s largest urban spa at the time of its opening, featuring pool areas, treatment rooms, and spectacular views of the historic center. The arrival of Aire Ancient Baths at Galería Canalejas adds another piece to that landscape, with a more accessible concept.