Hotel Concordia Barcelona ★★★★

I’d been to Barcelona before, and I had fallen in love. So much so that on my final day in this one-of-a-kind city, I’d decided to book another holiday the following year – I knew I’d never get round to it if I waited until I returned home. Without a doubt, my favourite part of the city was just west of the centre – namely Plaça d’Espanya, where extravagant fountains glide their way up the boulevard to the towering museum, joining with the oldest bullring in the city to form a beautiful plaza. I’d been recommended the Hotel Concordia Barcelona **** by a friend, and upon finding out that it was just a ten minute walk from my special place, I didn’t hesitate in booking myself a room.

After a quick flight and taxi ride to the centre, I entered the hotel to find myself surrounded by modernity, with a spacious reception area filled with artistic touches. I sat on one of the comfy sofas in the lobby while the smiling staff checked me in and upgraded me to a Comfort Room, giving me a good insight of the service I could expect throughout my stay.

I was led to my bedroom, which was furnished in warm wood tones and a contemporary subdued décor and equipped with a large double bed and desk along with a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar and free Wi-Fi. The spacious bathroom was completely decked out in marble and complete with a selection of Green Tea amenities.

Before rekindling my love with Barcelona, I decided to see what else the hotel had to offer, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. I started at the roof terrace, where I found sun loungers encircling a swimming pool alongside a jacuzzi and a cocktail bar. There was also a minigolf course, perfect for family fun. After treating myself to a wellbeing treatment designed to eliminate stress and tension, I floated downstairs, grinning from ear to ear.

The elegant Bistro Triple Sec Restaurant serves traditional Mediterranean cuisine and typical tapas, with an à la carte menu offering a range of delicious options to suit all tastes. I opted for their famous Triple Sec Burger, washed down with a glass of fine Spanish wine. The service couldn’t have been better, and the ambience was warm and friendly. I was already excited to return for my complimentary breakfast the following morning - a plentiful spread of fruit salad, pastries, toast with conserves, tea, coffee and fresh juice.

Feeling replenished and rejuvenated, I got some advice from the staff about the best kept secrets in Barcelona, and set off to explore the lesser-known sights of my favourite city in the world. I won’t tell you what they were, but go to Silken Concordia and you’ll see for yourself. It’s a contemporary gem in a city brimming with delights.