High up on the mountain of Tibidabo, Gran Hotel La Florida keeps a gentle watch over Barcelona. Self-styled as the city's only 'urban resort', this is the place to stay if you seek a way to temper the frantic activity of sightseeing with a more gentle and luxurious experience.
Everything about the hotel's presence is grand, from the imposing white façade visible from far down the mountain to the 27-metre-high fibre-optic "Homage to Gaudi" occupying the interior courtyard of the hotel. The style is both impressive and seductive — striking modern sculptures and futuristic design sit alongside more traditional features.
Gran Hotel La Florida first opened its doors in 1925. Throughout the 50s it was the location of choice for the Catalan bourgeoisie and it counts Ernest Hemingway, James Stewart and Rock Hudson amongst its prestigious clientele. After suffering the ravages of war and time, the hotel was lavishly restored in 2001.
There are 70 rooms ranging from superior to the fabulous design suites. Internationally renowned artists, designers and architects, including Rebecca Horn, Yannick Vu and Dale and Patricia Keller have put their unique stamps on the latter. Each has sprawling terraces with Jacuzzis and breathtaking views of the city and coastline unfolding below. And whether you're in a room or suite, all are well proportioned and opulent, with spacious marble bathrooms and fabulous walk-in showers.
The trendy Miramar bar serves light but pricey snacks and there is an impressive cocktail menu. For more formal dining, the hotel's L'Orangerie restaurant presents a menu featuring classic Catalan, Spanish and Mediterranean dishes. Open to both guests and non-guests, it has a reputation as one of the most acclaimed dining spots in Barcelona. Be sure to book, as it gets busy.
If you can tear yourself away from all that to venture into Barcelona itself, the hotel provides a regular complimentary shuttle service to and from the centre of the city. But you'd be forgiven for staying put on your sun bed. At the Gran Hotel La Florida it's easy to slip into relaxation mode and put off the sightseeing for another visit. After all, why heave up the stairs of hot Gaudí buildings when you can retreat to the hotel's rooftop pool and take the longer view?
Gran Hotel La Florida, Ctra Vallvidrera al Tibidabo 83-93, Barcelona (+34 93 259 30 00; hotellaflorida.com). Prices from £132.
