Gran Hotel Havana ★★★★SUP

Like the ever-changing city of Barcelona, Gran Hotel Havana has kept up with the times. Located in the original home of Lorenzo Fradera, and built in 1882, the building to this day remains elegant and sophisticated. During the 20th century, the Gran Hotel Havana was a host to many different companies, from being used as a French Consulate to a fire insurance company. Eventually the building settled as a hotel in 1950 and the Gran Hotel Havana was born.

Standing outside the Gran Hotel Havana, the sheer size and beauty of this 19th century building differentiates it from the surrounding architecture of Barcelona. The large clock on the eclectic architectural façade remains one of the buildings most distinctive features. Entering into the grand solarium reveals the scale and luxurious nature of the hotel. The modern décor and soft furnishings create a calm and relaxed atmosphere, hard to come by when in the middle of the busy city. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, with a chic and modern design, adding to the luxurious nature of the hotel. The addition of the typical Spanish balcony was ideal for a morning coffee and fresh orange juice. Our favourite spot was the rooftop pool and bar, with views spanning far and wide over the rooftops of Barcelona and of the Sacred Heart of Jesus - the perfect spot for watching the evening sunset.

The Gran Hotel Havana belies its old-fashioned décor with traditional Catalonian art, and conventional friendly staff, always on hand to help. It is the perfect city break for a breath of fresh Spanish air.