Hotel Granvia

I was in my mid-twenties, and I fell head over heels for the urban sunshine, parties and days on the beach. Over the years, my love for the city has evolved but never faded. Now, my love of good food, beautiful architecture and the Spanish lifestyle are equally satisfied here, not to mention the shopping!

After all my visits, I know exactly in which part of town I prefer to stay, in or near the Eixample. In the centre of the city, yet spacious thanks to the wide avenues and modern buildings. This is also where you can find all of the luxury shops (a must-visit when you are in Barcelona). When I discovered the Hotel Granvia this year, standing on the corner of Paseo de Gracia and just a few metres from the Plaça Catalunya, I knew it was the perfect place for me. I was not disappointed.

This recently renovated hotel is housed in a former private residence built in 1870, originally owned by an aristocratic family from Chile. You can still see the original features and beautiful nineteenth-century craftsmanship. When you enter, you find yourself taken back in time, with the varnished wood lobby, staff in smart uniforms and an impressive staircase that winds up towards the glass roof all creating that feeling of yesteryear. It is beautiful, subtle and inviting.

My bedroom was a pure delight and provided me with a peaceful retreat after long days and evenings in the city. I loved the contemporary interior design that perfectly complements the period soul of the building. Muted tones, wooden floors and crisp white bed linen make for light and airy rooms that nevertheless feel cosy and warm. Of course, they all benefit from air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

In the morning, you can make your way downstairs for a gorgeous buffet breakfast in a lovely setting that once again finds the perfect balance between period features and contemporary decoration. Afterwards, you can move into the lounge to read the paper in a classic Chesterfield, or take advantage of the terrace to enjoy a little bit of morning sun.