Who's Going
Penelope Cruz, Ernest Hemmingway, Antonio Banderas
Reason to Stay
Sexy Clientele, Top-notch Spa, Designer Hotel, Removed Location
Hotel Type
City Hotel
Two sexy Spaniards stand at attention next to two large doors that create a soft breeze when they open, each in Mandarin collared suits with buzzed hair and bronze skin. The lobby is modern with an air of refinement, the check-in area tucked inside a private room away from the central staircase that traces the height of the building. The hotel features a fantastic spa and fitness center, packed with elliptical machines, private televisions and a weight room built by someone who actually works out. The area is topped off with a stainless-steel indoor-outdoor pool offering distant-views of Barcelona. An on-site gourmet restaurant features an outdoor dining room that is best booked on a breezy summer night with lots of moonlight. The food isn't as good as the view, leaning more to French cuisine than one would want in one of Spain's most vibrant culinary cities, but worth a visit just for the view.
The Room
The hotel features a total of 74 rooms and suites by hotelier David Stein and designed by renowned decorator Patricia Keller. Perhaps the best part of the hotel is its history as a meeting point for 20th Century elite ranging from Rock Hudson to Herman Hess, as well as being the temporary residence of Earnest Hemmingway while in Barcelona. The historic common areas offer a glamorous approach to guest rooms, decked-out with original artwork and sculptures from the owner’s collection. The best rooms face the city and are well worth the added expense. These rooms offer panoramic views with some featuring lavish-sized terraces and private Jacuzzis. Regardless of size, rooms are elegantly equipped with King-sized beds offering 500-thread count sheets and all-feather pillows. Spacious marble bathrooms feature in-floor heating, heated towel racks and walk-in showers with large mirrors. Larger rooms feature small lounge areas with modern-loft like feel complete with the prerequisite satellite plasma TV for added hipster-touch.
Preferred Room
Terrace Suite
Special Features
Historical Location, Designer Hotel, Romantic Getaway
Amenities
Pool, Spa, Restaurant, Spa, City Views, Lounge, Fitness Center
