Barceló Raval
Rambla del Raval, 17-21, Barcelona, Spain
Loading map...
#18 of 40
expert-rated hotels in Barcelona- Recommended for:
- Couples, Nightlife, Romance
Expert review of Barceló Raval
Funky design with spectacular views in the multicultural Raval.
The Barceló rises up alongside the Rambla del Raval like a elliptical beacon of gentrification in this formerly edgy neighbourhood, and despite some initial controversy, seems to have been accepted as a futuristic landmark.
Location:
The Raval has seen many changes over the last decade, but it can be a little intimidating at night, especially for anyone emerging from a four-star hotel. Despite some pickpocketing and petty crime, however, it's not a violent neighbourhood, and is the most authentic of the Old City neighbourhoods.
Bedrooms:
Upstairs the rooms come in two flavours: hot pink or lime green, their numbers projected on to the floor outside, and inside the circular theme continues in the décor and rounded edges. Nespresso machines and chromatic lighting come as standard, but for something a bit more special book one of the rooms on the higher floors, which have fabulous views, particularly the suites.
Check availability and compare prices for Barceló Raval
Public areas:
In the lobby and lounge area, oversized rococo-patterned lampshades light up iMacs where guests can check their emails, and shelves bulge with books on Spanish culture, design and architecture. If your wallet won’t run to one of the suites (and it’s always worth checking around for offers), you can take in the sun and a panoramic view from the rooftop terrace and small plunge pool.
Eating and drinking:
The Barcelo has become a popular place for anyone to drop in and have a cocktail or a quick lunch, in the glam B-Lounge. This is an extension of the lobby, and licks gracefully around echoing the shape of the building, with boomerang-shaped tables and curvy banquettes to match. The food is reasonable, and reasonably priced, tapas and relaxed global dishes (guacamole with nachos, burgers and, on my last visit, kangaroo in ratafia).
Leisure facilities:
The plunge pool on the roof is just that, and you won't be doing many laps, but it's a nice place for a dip. The gym is a more useful size, and there's a small spa where you can get a massage or have your bikini line waxed.
Service:
Young and easy on the eye, but none the less polite for it.
Check availability and compare prices for Barceló Raval
Who stays there:
The Barceló attracts lots of youngish couples on city breaks, but no one nationality seems to dominate.
Price advice:
Even in August it's possible to get a reasonably priced room. Breakfast is 12 euros extra, but varied and good.
Pros:
Excellent value
Well-designed
Cons:
The area can feel insalubrious at night
More information on Barceló Raval:
- Price from:
- Type:
- Hotel
- Address:
- Rambla del Raval, 17-21, Barcelona, Spain
- Amenities:
- Fitness Centre, High-Speed Internet, Restaurant, Room Service, Swimming Pool
- Neighbourhood:
- Raval
