Six Senses Kexigal Palace rendering – Image credit IHG Hotels & Resorts
Six Senses, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio, will operate a new luxury resort in a 16th-century palace in Avila, just 50 minutes from Madrid. The palace is scheduled to open in late 2026 and will be set in 250 acres of countryside and will feature 60 accommodations.
Known as El Quexigal, the palace was built in 1563 by Juan de Herrera, the architect who designed the Renaissance masterpiece El Escorial. The estate was once owned by King Felipe II and managed by the Jerome Friars, who produced oil, wine, honey and food.
Madrid-based architect Albo Arquitectura and interior designer Rafael Navot are collaborating on the project. The plan is to preserve the original features of the palace and its outbuildings, creating an atmosphere resembling a royal village.
The 60 accommodations include 13 suites, a presidential suite with a private garden, and a full-service five-bedroom villa. This resort is perfect for families, weekend travelers, and those looking for a retreat.
The resort’s signature restaurant and other dining options offer local, sustainable and seasonal cuisine. The resort will also feature a tasting room, a pool bar and grill, a secret bar, and an old aviary-themed bar.
Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs expressed his excitement about the project, saying it will offer guests a unique resort experience within the historic palace and its beautiful grounds.
Joint venture partners El Enebro and Sidecom said the project aims to preserve the heritage of El Quexigal Palace and create a sustainable future.
The resort will also feature a Six Senses Spa offering signature treatments and therapies. Other wellness facilities include a vitality pool, Finnish sauna, steam room and workshops at the Alchemy Bar. The resort will also feature a “Grow With Six Senses” clubhouse for children and an observation deck for stargazing.
Six Senses Kexigal Palace is the latest addition to IHG’s growing portfolio in Spain, which currently includes 55 open hotels and 15 properties in development. It is also Six Senses’ first facility in mainland Spain.
