Barcelona Photoblog: hotels
Showing posts with label hotels. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hotels. Show all posts

August 08, 2023

Step Back in Time at Barcelona's Historic Hotel El Palace

Entrance-to-El-Palace-Hotel-in-Barcelona-aka-the-old-Hotel-Ritz

Step into the Gilded Age of Travel at Barcelona's Hotel El Palace

Tucked away on a tree-lined boulevard in the heart of Barcelona lies a timeless grande dame that transports guests back to the glamorous era of early 20th century travel. Hotel El Palace Barcelona, originally opened in 1919 as an outpost of César Ritz's famed luxury hotel chain, oozes old world charm and elegance. From its ornate façade guarded by liveried doormen to the antique furnishings within, El Palace brings to life a bygone time when travel was still an exclusive pursuit of royalty and the cultural elite.

The Remarkable Rise of César Ritz

The storied history of El Palace Barcelona begins with legendary hotelier César Ritz, the pioneering founder of the international Ritz brand. Born in 1850 in the small Swiss village of Niederwald, Ritz was the thirteenth child in a family of farmers. His mother noticed young César’s intellect and insisted he receive an education, sending him to a Jesuit boarding school. There he learned German, French, and English—skills that would prove invaluable.

At 15, Ritz became an apprentice waiter at a hotel in Brig, Switzerland. But he was dismissed after a few months, deemed to lack faculties for hospitality. After a period of uncertainty, ambitious Ritz left for Paris in 1867 to seek his fortune. The bustling city was hosting the Universal Exposition, creating many hospitality jobs. Though starting as a waiter apprentice again, Ritz quickly moved up, honing his skills at top restaurants like Voisin.

Ritz exhibited exceptional talent for remembering guests’ names and preferences. His amiable personality also attracted important contacts like the Prince of Wales. But Ritz’s budding career was interrupted by the 1870 Franco-Prussian War. When Voisin closed due to scarce supplies, Ritz returned to Switzerland. In 1873 he went to Vienna for another Universal Exposition and met European royalty while working at a fine restaurant there.

For the next decade, Ritz spent winters serving elite clientele on the French Riviera and summers in the Swiss Alps. In 1889, the Savoy Hotel in London recruited Ritz and chef Auguste Escoffier to manage their new luxury property. During his decade at the Savoy, Ritz pioneered innovations like in-room bathrooms and introduced standards of service and cuisine never before seen in hotels.

But Ritz dreamed of launching his own luxury hotel. In 1898, he opened the esteemed Hôtel Ritz Paris. Its elegantly appointed rooms and refined dining attracted royalty, business magnates, and creatives. The terms “ritzy” and “puttin’ on the Ritz” stem from this gilded era.

After conquering Paris, London and Madrid, Ritz, who at the beginning was reluctant to build in Barcelona, was advised by Francesc Cambó, a local politician and intellectual, on the need of building yet another magnificent first-class hotel, this time in Barcelona considering pending events like the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition. No expense was spared to create Ritz's vision of a palatial urban oasis. When Hotel Ritz Barcelona opened in 1919, it immediately became the city's premier luxury destination.

Although Ritz managed to expand his holdings globally he finally had to pass his empire to his heirs and retire to Switzerland due to declining health. When he died in 1918, César Ritz was remembered as the founder of modern luxury hospitality.

A Storied Past Through War and Peace

In its early years, El Palace cemented its status as the place to see and be seen in Barcelona. Well-heeled travelers arriving on luxurious cruise ships docked nearby eagerly made their way to the hotel's elegant spaces. Over the decades, famous guests have ranged from Spanish royalty like King Alfonso XIII to luminaries like Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dalí.

The sprawling Ritz also became a cultural hub for Barcelona's high society. In the 1920s, its ballrooms hosted splendid masquerade galas, concert performances and art shows that attracted the city's creatives and socialites. The hotel's bar served as a lively spot where intellectual figures like Federico García Lorca and José Ortega y Gasset convened for cultural lectures, organized by the prominent women Isabel Llorach and Francesc Cambó.

But after the boom of the 1920s, troubling times loomed with the Spanish Civil War's outbreak in 1936. During the conflict, El Palace became a refuge for prominent families seeking shelter. Despite the war's chaos, the hotel maintained an aura of civility and calm. The tireless staff provided any comfort or service required, even sleeping onsite overnight when commuting was dangerous.

When war erupted, the hotel transformed into a worker-run cafeteria under the CNT and UGT unions, providing vital meals for Barcelona's hungry population. After the war, the grande dame emerged physically unscathed. But isolation under Franco's regime affected its glittering clientele. However, the hotel continued operating with world-class service and dignity.

Entrance Hotel El Palace 1919 Old Ritz

The Grande Dame Regains Her Luster

By the 1950s, Barcelona had begun opening up to the world again. With major events at the city's expo grounds, El Palace found itself welcoming international guests once more. A renaissance during the 1960s-70s won the hotel global acclaim and designation as a Leading Hotel of the World for its refined amenities.

In 2019, extensive renovations prepared El Palace for its next 100 years by sensitively restoring original details while incorporating modern comforts and conveniences. From its elegant facade to the restored interior design, the hotel brings Barcelona's gilded early 20th century era back to life. The César Ritz spirit continues through the staff's genuinely warm hospitality.

Famous Guests Over the Decades

El Palace’s premier location and accommodations have attracted many celebrity guests. Salvador Dalí repeatedly stayed in his favorite luxury suite during sojourns in Catalonia, once famously bringing up a taxidermy horse as a gift for his wife Gala, to the astonishment of hotel staff.

Retired bandleader Xavier Cugat, who popularized mambo music in 1940s Hollywood, spent his later years living at El Palace, filling its ballrooms with lively tunes in the 1970s and 80s. In 1987, Freddie Mercury met opera singer Montserrat Caballé at the hotel's bar, catalyzing their creative collaboration on the song "Barcelona" for the 1992 Olympic Games.

Many other luminaries have repeatedly made El Palace their home away from home when visiting Barcelona over the decades, including a diverse array of Hollywood actors, opera singers, rock stars, bullfighters, famous painters, directors, fashion designers, irreplaceable writers, distinguished members of high society from nobility to heads of state, from illustrious politicians to Arab sheiks, from Masons to Nazis, from Republicans to Franco's troops. The list is so extensive that it makes no sense trying to include them all here.

To celebrate the hotel's 2019 centennial, El Palace unveiled a photo exhibition with images of its glamorous past events and famous faces. The hotel's prestigious history and restored elegant spaces continue to transport guests back to Barcelona's golden era of luxury travel today.

Barcelona's Leading Luxury Destination Through the Years

In many ways, the history of El Palace mirrors that of Barcelona itself. The hotel was the city's premier luxury destination from the moment its doors opened in 1919, attracting affluent travelers and hosting high society events. In the carefree 1920s, its ballrooms and restaurants were the epicenter of Barcelona's buzzing cultural scene. El Palace was witness to pivotal historic moments like the 1929 World's Fair and the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s.

During the economically depressed postwar years, the hotel weathered challenges but continued as an oasis of refinement. By the 1960s, a rebirth of Barcelona's cosmopolitan spirit coincided with El Palace's renewed golden era. The city became an international travel hotspot once again, and the hotel its glittering social hub. The 1992 Summer Olympics spotlighted Barcelona on the world stage, drawing renewed interest in its Belle Epoque splendor.

Today, extensive restoration work ensures El Palace remains Barcelona's most illustrious luxury hotel. Its timeless elegance comes alive in the ornate facade, the crystal chandeliers glittering in palatial event spaces, the frescoed ceilings and marble floors.

For over a century, Hotel El Palace Barcelona has maintained its stature as the crown jewel of Catalan hospitality. It continues César Ritz's legacy as the pinnacle of discreet luxury experiences, attracting discerning travelers today as it did Barcelona's elite in its 1920s heyday. A fascinating living link to the city's past remains vibrantly alive within El Palace's historic walls.

Restaurant-AMAR-by-Rafa-Zafra-michelin-star-at-Hotel-El-Palace-Barcelona-old Ritz

June 25, 2023

Best Barcelona Neighborhoods and Areas to Stay

Sagrada Familia design with Barcelona view in the background


Barcelona is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a wide range of neighborhoods and areas to stay in, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you're interested in exploring historical landmarks, experiencing the local culture, or indulging in the city's culinary delights, Barcelona has something to offer for every traveler. Here are some of the best neighborhoods and areas to consider for your stay in Barcelona, along with recommended accommodations in each area.

1. Eixample: Known for its grid-like layout and stunning architecture, Eixample is a popular neighborhood that offers a mix of modernity and tradition. With wide boulevards, casas modernistas or art nouveau buildings, designer boutiques, and exquisite dining options, Eixample attracts visitors looking for a luxurious stay. Recommended accommodations in Eixample include:


Casa modernista at l'Eixample, Barcelona

2. Barceloneta: Formerly the old fishermen's quarter, Barceloneta sits right on the Mediterranean coast, making it an ideal choice for beach lovers. Its narrow streets are lined with low-rise buildings, and the neighborhood exudes a laid-back, seaside vibe. Enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, take a stroll along the boardwalk, or soak up the sun on Barceloneta Beach. Recommended accommodations in Barceloneta include:


Lovers in terrace near La Barceloneta beach, Barcelona

3. El Raval: Packed with culture and diversity, El Raval is an eclectic neighborhood that appeals to the artistic and bohemian crowd. This vibrant area is home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, La Boqueria Market and the Maritime Museum. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Barcelona's thriving arts scene, savor international cuisine, and explore its lively nightlife. Recommended accommodations in El Raval include:


La Boqueria market in Barcelona

4. Gracia: Barcelona's bohemian hangout, Gracia, offers a more laid-back and local atmosphere compared to the bustling city center. This neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat while still being within reach of the main attractions. Spend your holiday exploring quiet lanes, visiting charming squares, and discovering boutiques and cozy cafes. Recommended accommodations in Gracia include:


Afternoon scenes in Gracia quarter, Barcelona


5. El Poblenou: Located near the beach, El Poblenou is a trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood with a vibrant mix of old and new. Living in El Poblenou is a unique experience, from the cobblestone streets to the stunning industrial architecture. This area is known for its thriving tech and creative scene, and it offers a range of restaurants like Xiringuito Escriba, hip cafes, bars, and art galleries. Recommended accommodations in El Poblenou include:


Dessert at Escribà restaurant by the beach in Barcelona

6. Poble Sec: The neighborhood of Poble Sec is a hidden gem for foodies and theater enthusiasts. Located at the foot of Montjuïc hill (with Olympic sports facilities and MNAC museum), it offers a diverse range of restaurants, tapas bars, and live music venues. Poble Sec is also close to the popular street of Carrer Blai, known for its pintxos bars where you can sample delicious Basque cuisine. Recommended accommodations in Poble Sec include:


MNAC museum, Barcelona, Spain

When choosing the best neighborhood to stay in Barcelona, consider your interests and preferences. Each neighborhood offers a different ambiance and a variety of attractions to explore. Whether you want to be close to the beach, immerse yourself in local culture, or indulge in culinary delights, Barcelona has a neighborhood that will suit your needs and make your stay unforgettable.





January 11, 2018

Grand Luxury Hotel Casa Fuster Modernist Landmark of Barcelona

Hotel Casa Fuster Grand Luxe 5 Star Monument Leading Hotels of the World
Hotel Casa Fuster by architect Domenech i Montaner - picture by Carlos Lorenzo


Do you want to discover one of the top modernist landmarks in Barcelona? Come visit with me the Grand Luxury Hotel Casa Fuster, member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World group, a jewel of Catalan Art Nouveau architecture.

History


Hotel Casa Fuster started being just a casa modernista but it was not any odd house indeed. This beauty was built by the matchless architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner who was commissioned by Don Mariano Fuster i Fuster, illustrious member of the Mallorcan high society apropos of his marriage to Miss Consuelo Fabra i Puig, daughter of the Marquis of Alella.

In fact, Fuster wanted to give this house to his wife as a wedding present and there were no limits for expenses. He put the house under his wife's name and dedicated a rose window to her, on the facade of Jesus Street where you can read her initials CF.

Domenech's work was the first house in Barcelona built with white marble and cost 13 million pesetas, a fortune that made it the most expensive in the city at that time, one year before La Pedrera by Gaudi, which is about 400 meters away down Passeig de Gracia.

Those were times in which houses talked a lot about the class of their owners. The history of this famous street is that of the war of egos among the powerful elite of wealthy businessmen and nobles on each side of the road. Can you imagine this magnificent white marble five story building, shining on top of the hill at the end of Passeig de Gracia? 1,920 square meters of property on the premises of an old chocolate factory demolished in 1905 stating clearly that it was second to none.

Hotel Casa Fuster Corner Tower
Corner of Hotel Casa Fuster facing Gran de Gracia street
 
The works began in 1908 and ended in 1911, the year in which the family entered to live on the noble floor, that is, the first one. The rest of the floors were for rent. This was very common in Barcelona. It really helped covering the ostentatious expenses.

What is today the main entrance of the hotel was the access for carriages that used to go through till the opposite side, a back alley in which there is a church. On the other hand, what we know at present as Café Vienés was the family events room in which there was a staircase to go up to the private floor of the family.

In the early twenties the family had to sell the house. It was impossible to keep such pace, not even by renting the upper floors. Nevertheless the flats remained for rent long after the owners left.

Over the years, businesses such as a barber shop and a grocery store were prosperous in the area of Cafe Vienes famous for its jazz concerts nowadays every Thursday from 9 to 11 pm. Another part of the building, what at present is the Sala Doménech i Montaner in the underground floor used to be a very popular dance hall in the middle of the 50s known as "The Blue Danube". It was a place of reunion for the different social strata in the city.

Famous Cafe Vienes in Hotel Casa Fuster


But that is not all. The house changed from hand to hand several times according to the historical ups and downs of the city so it was not strange to see the consulate of Hitler's Germany or the Italian Institute during Mussolini's dictatorship occupying one of the floors. Although not all was that fascist in its records! The same floor was taken by the POUM (Workers Party of Marxist Unification) to establish their headquarters in 1936. Also the Defense Committee of the Revolution by the Iberian Communist Youth was organized here. In 1939, once Republicans lost the civil war, Franco's Falange settled in the house and also their official Social Assistance institutions.

By the way, this was the house of the famous Catalan poet Salvador Espriu for 30 years! It is said that he did not want to abandon the premises until a leg injury impaired him and made it impossible for him to climb the stairs. 

In 1962 the company ENHER (the Ribagorzana Hydroelectric Company) bought the house for 11 million pesetas. The intention was to tear down Casa Fuster and start a more functional high rise building called Barcelona Tower. There was a tremendous campaign to defend this urban heritage, led by important personalities and publications such as Oriol Bohigas and Destino magazine.

As a result of the general protests ENHER, not only did not demolish the house, but promised to make a restoration of the building.

The Hotel


In 1999 "Casa Fuster" was on sale and in the year 2000 it was bought by Hoteles Center.

It is now the property of a group of companies called GRUPO NOGA (the initials of the name and surnames of the owner). The group's headquarters are in Granada, where the company opened its first hotel in 1992. There are others in Cordoba, Badajoz, Seville and Valencia.

Opened in 2004, Hotel Casa Fuster started attracting foreign and local clients alike. It was a privilege to sleep in such beautiful landmark not only because of the architecture but because of the history. This well deserved fame made it part of the most expensive hotels in the village. You may easily spend here more than 1000 euros per room although the standard ones are about 255 EUR (+VAT). Of its 105 rooms, only 67 are standard bedrooms. The rest are superior rooms, junior suites and suites. The company also owns Suite Center Barcelona apartments in Passeig de Gracia 128, some steps away from the entrance.

Grand Luxe Hotel Casa Fuster on Passeig de Gracia 132 - Front Façade
Hotel Casa Fuster Front Façade on Passeig de Gracia 132
 
The list of famous guests is countless but as you know a hotel like this strictly protects the privacy of its clients. You'd better Google them up.

Not only you can sleep in an enormous King size bed with a view of Sagrada Familia but you can enjoy the popular terrace from where Passeig de Gracia is all in front of your eyes right until Plaça Catalunya, 10 blocks away.

The hotel has eleven meeting rooms, a gym, a sauna and a massage room. There is the Galaxó Restaurant on the first floor which has an average price of 60 euros and has a menu called 'modernist' for 40 euros. Besides being a place to stay and find solace, Hotel Casa Fuster is much more. It is the central spot for all sort of events and activities, such as weddings, anniversaries, baptisms, bachelor parties, business meetings, congresses, cocktails, spots, movies...you name it.

Guests are pampered by hotel staff from the doormen till the last employee and that is perhaps what makes it so unique on top of the architecture and history.

The Architect


Lluís Domènech i Montaner was a prolific architect. His professional life began in 1874 with the pantheon project for Anselm Clavé, in Poblenou's cemetery in Barcelona, and ended in 1919 with Casa Domènech in Canet de Mar.

During forty-five years he produced more than seventeen buildings among other projects, of which 46% corresponds to housing, 25% to public architecture, 16% to funeral architecture, 6% to monuments, 4% to religious architecture and 3 % to industrial architecture.

Doménech i Montaner, also known for Hospital de Sant Pau and Palau de la Musica, which he build in parallel to Casa Fuster was a modernist architect of international renown and a professor of architecture. In fact, Gaudi was Montaner's pupil in the school of architecture.

His style may look more sober than Gaudi's but it is by no means less solid as he was the father sort to say, of Catalan modernisme.

Check the images above and admire the impressive facades of Casa Fuster, in which the architect avoids the straight lines as much as possible with the intention of creating movement while highlighting representative ornaments of nature like flowers, plants and birds. Remember that Doménech i Montaner was also a botanist! This man was a genius overshadowed by the Messi of architecture, Antonio Gaudi.

February 08, 2013

Barcelona's Twin Towers

 [enlarge]

Barcelona's Twin Towers, called 'Las Torres Gemelas' in Spanish, are tied for the tallest buildings in the city. At 154 metres tall, the Torre Mapfre (on the right) and the Hotel Arts (on the left) look over the Catalan capital from their location by the beach at Port Olímpic. The Torre Mapfre is owned by insurance company Mapfre and is home to their offices, as well as those of several other companies. Its sister, the Hotel Arts, is quite different as it is one of the city's most luxurious hotels. Many a celebrity has been known to stay in one of the Hotel Arts' 483 rooms that overlook Barcelona's beaches.

Photo is courtesy of Oh-Barcelona

August 06, 2008

Avenida Palace Hotel, Gran Via, Barcelona





Avenida Palace should be among the first options on your list if you are looking for a strategically located downtown hotel in Barcelona.

Just a few steps away from Passeig de Gracia, one of the most famous streets of Barcelona and Spain, Hotel Avenida Palace is an accommodation as convenient as those located near to New York's Fifth Avenue for example although Passeig de Gracia is not only the street of expensive shops but also of the most remarkable modernist houses that renown Catalan architects ever built, like Casa Mila aka La Pedrera, Casa Batllo both by Gaudi or Casa Lleo i Morera, Casa Amatller and Casa Rocamora.

But not only shops and architecture festoon the surroundings of the prestigious Avenida Palace Hotel, there is also the very center of the downtown area, Plaça Catalunya or Catalonia Square, at a 100 meters walking down in Las Ramblas direction. That's the ridiculous distance that separates you from the old part of town or casc antic. Casc Antic was that part of the city that used to be within the walls.

151 refurbished rooms, including the Sagrada Familia suite with a spectacular 10 meter square terrace or the Beatles suite where the Liverpool band stayed in 1965 make part of the perfect accommodation this great art deco style hotel has to give you.

Rooms with carpeted and parquet floors are comfortable, spacious and well distributed. There is air conditioning, Satellite TV, safe, mini-bar, soundproofed walls, en-suite bathrooms and wifi.

One of the best spots in the hotel is the rooftop bar with pool that overlooks Gran Via Street and from where you can see the unique Sagrada Familia cathedral by Gaudi.

Restaurant Beluga also in the venue might be a good option for a decent brunch although there are much better places in the vicinity. Maybe this would be one of the few things to be improved in the excellent services of Hotel Avenida Palace in my opinion.

By the way, a little bit of history for Avenida Palace's visitors-to-be:

Back in 1952, one of those great events that have skyrocketed hotel reservations in Barcelona, in this case the 35th International Eucharistic Congress, accelerated the inauguration of Avenida Palace hotel, once the legendary chocolate shop, tea salon and restaurant Casa Llibre, owned by Guillermo Llibre and designed by prestigious modernist architect Enric Sagnier in 1924. Only twelve days before the congress the hotel was opened in a rush to welcome important personalities of the ecclesiastic world. All in all, there were 300.000 visits to Barcelona city in less than a week. Another interesting fact is that hotel founder, Joan Gaspart Bonet was the grandfather of Catalan entrepreneur Joan Gaspart Solves. Joan Gaspart the grandson, is not only known for being the general manager of HUSA hotel group but for his successful 22 years as vice president of FC Barcelona and his not so good 3 years of presidency.

Here is an old image for you to compare the old building with nowadays' 4 Star Hotel Avenida Palace located at 605 - 607 Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, Barcelona.



July 14, 2008

Barcelona World Trade Center View From The Sea

Barcelona World Trade Center View From The Sea [enlarge]

Here is a very deceptive image in the sense that Barcelona World Trade Center looks like a small scale model next to an enormous cruiser moored to the pier. Maybe the other ship on the left helps the viewer find out what is huge and what is normal size here. Perhaps if you are an enthusiast of Barcelona Photoblog you remember that picture where I showed the other side of the pier: WTC: A Close Look. To have an idea of how it would all look from above watch it from the Mirador on Montjuic mountain.

February 21, 2008

Colon Hotel in front of Barcelona Cathedral

Colon Hotel in front of Barcelona Cathedral

To finish this hotel series for now, I leave you with a view of Colon Hotel right in front of Barcelona Cathedral in Barri Gotic. I know the picture is no big deal but if you look it up on a Barcelona map you'll find out how well located this renown hotel is. With time Barcelona Photoblog pretends to be a little helpful guide to visitors so the more information the better, specially finding accommodation in town. I have often wondered why so many travel guides offer those tiny pictures that may ruin your logical enthusiasm prior to the discovery of a new city. They are like a very small window, you want to look inside and capture as many details as possible, full of illusion as you are, and there's no way to stick your head inside to take a look around. So whenever possible I will try to show you some hotels, museums, etc that may not be of photographic interest but will surely let you lean on the window and take a glimpse at Barcelona.

Updated 07/2023: 

Hotel Colón: Exquisite Accommodation in the Heart of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter


But now let us go through the imaginary window and  demonstrate why it is a great option when it comes to finding accommodation in our city:

Nestled in the heart of Barcelona's historic Gothic Quarter, Hotel Colón stands as an exceptional choice for the discerning traveler seeking unrivaled comfort and convenience. With its proximity to the iconic Barcelona Cathedral, this splendid hotel offers an unforgettable experience, refined accommodations, and unique offerings that transport guests to the heart of Barcelona's rich cultural tapestry.

Unparalleled Location near Barcelona Cathedral:

Hotel Colón boasts an enviable address, perfectly situated just steps away from the revered Barcelona Cathedral. This privileged location allows guests to immerse themselves in the architectural wonders and storied history of the Gothic Quarter. Meandering through its labyrinthine streets, visitors will encounter hidden gems, picturesque plazas, and charming boutiques that paint a vivid portrait of Barcelona's exceptional past.

Elegance and Comfort Redefined:

Step into Hotel Colón and be transported to a world of refined elegance and supreme comfort. Each meticulously designed room and suite reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary sophistication and local charm. The hotel offers an array of thoughtfully curated accommodations, ranging from cozy single rooms to spacious suites, ensuring every guest finds their ideal sanctuary amidst the bustling city.

Impeccable Amenities and Exquisite Dining:

Hotel Colón's commitment to providing an unforgettable stay is exemplified by its impeccable amenities and attentive services. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona's majestic skyline and the resplendent Barcelona Cathedral from the hotel's enchanting rooftop terrace. This idyllic space offers the perfect retreat to unwind and savor delectable culinary creations crafted with precision and passion. Indulge in the flavors of traditional Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine, elevating your gastronomic journey to new heights.

Beyond the Hotel's Thresholds:

While Hotel Colón delights guests with its opulent offerings, Barcelona beckons with its myriad attractions, awaiting exploration beyond the hotel's thresholds. Just a stone's throw away, the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral enthralls visitors with its Gothic grandeur, unveiling centuries of history through its intricate architecture and soaring spires. Immerse yourself in the city's cultural scene, from marveling at the visionary works of Antoni Gaudí to discovering the Roman and medieval treasures scattered inside the perimeter of the old city walls and of course, do revel in the captivating ambiance of tapas bars, seafood restaurants, and bustling local markets.

Hotel Colón stands as a testament to refined hospitality, embracing Barcelona's rich history and remarkable culture. Its exceptional location near the Barcelona Cathedral provides a gateway to the city's architectural marvels and hidden treasures. Through its exquisite accommodations, impeccable amenities Hotel Colón is the perfect ambassador of Barcelona.

Why not sharing your impressions with Barcelona Photoblog while you enjoy the impressive views of the Cathedral from Hotel Colon then? 

February 20, 2008

Miramar Hotel at Montjuic Mountain, Barcelona

Miramar Hotel at Montjuic Mountain, Barcelona

Miramar-Barcelona Hotel in particular being on Montjuic mountain, on Miramar road to be more precise, is a little out of the way. It is not inaccesible, but it is a mountain after all. Of course you have the best views of Barcelona port, Maremagnum and some other areas of the city from up there. There is a beautiful park nearby and an important botanical garden devoted exclusively to cacti thanks to the special microclimate along the wall of the mountain. This is a luxury hotel designed by Oscar Tusquet. Miró Foundation Museum is very near and MNAC National Art Museum not so near as they suggest but you won't get a heart attack before you reach the place. Of course the 15 minutes walk to get to Las Ramblas is feasible although that means you have to descend towards the city. Hey, if you have money for luxury hotels don't complain about transportation anyways.

February 19, 2008

NH Podium Hotel at Bailen 4-6, Barcelona

NH Podium Hotel at Bailen 4-6, Barcelona [enlarge]

NH Podium Hotel is the second on my list, but remember this is a random selection. You are free to choose any hotel from the huge amount available in Barcelona. I just liked the entrance you see. It was sunny and the flowers really looked attractive. I visited the site and at least the pictures in the gallery are quite convincing. But of course I would show you my best suite to make you book a room. If I were you I would think of budget first, then which part of the city the hotel is and finally I would read some reviews on the web about nice and affordable accomodation in our city. By the way, NH Podium is located at Bailen street, 4-6, very near Arc de Triomph and Ciutadella Park.

February 18, 2008

Condes de Barcelona Hotel at Passeig de Gracia 73

Comtes de Barcelona Hotel at Passeig de Gracia 73 [enlarge]

Barcelona hotels are really scarce in Barcelona Photoblog, simply because it is difficult for me to take good pictures of some buildings that are normally boring, at least from the outside. Nevertheless, considering that spring and Easter holidays are around the corner I have decided to show some well known hotels that might give visitors a hint or at least serve as an appetizer before booking a room in our city. The fact that I pick up these hotels does not mean I emphasize on any of them. They all caught my attention in a certain way and are 4 star hotels after all so they might be good choices for you when searching for accommodation in our city. In any case I will insert a link to their site if available.

Here goes the first one: Condes de Barcelona Hotel. What is special about this hotel? The location of course, Passeig de Gracia 73-75. It is a beautiful modernist building facing La Pedrera or Casa Mila by Gaudi. The rest you can read by yourselves on their site above. Considering the area I am sure the price must be something to take into account but hey, who knows?.
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