FACT spent an unforgettable day and night at one of the most sought-after hotels in one of Europe’s most captivating cities.

Barcelona has long been regarded as a must-visit location in Spain. Thanks to this cosmopolitan city’s breathtaking architecture, vibrant atmosphere, scrumptious cuisine, unending shopping districts and splendid Mediterranean climate, we were spoilt for choice when visiting the luxurious Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona.

Beautiful Barcelona

As we were chauffeured through the old city’s maze of streets and squares, we were soon captivated by the vivacity of this avant-garde city. Along with the hustle and bustle of the busy roads, we took in the array of modernist and historic buildings standing together in effortless harmony.

Museums, grand churches, charming cafés, little shops, fashionable boutiques, chic retailers, attractive flower stalls and restaurants of different designs were all a part of our journey. Barcelona is a beautiful and fascinating place! Also boasting an exceptional beach and a lively marina ensures it offers everything one may desire.

By the time we pulled up to the magnificent Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, we already knew we would have to return to explore this enthralling metropolis further.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona

Located in the heart of the famous Passeig de Gracia, we can honestly say this five-star, contemporary hotel not only provides easy access to all the city offers but employs the most friendly and attentive staff you could hope for.

From the moment we arrived, we were treated like gold, provided more assistance than we could have asked for, and experienced a hassle-free check in.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona contains 120 rooms and suites across eight floors, several dining venues, meeting facilities, beautiful gardens and an award-winning spa.

Escorted to my Deluxe Suite, the moment the door opened, the sight of the room was enough to make me smile broadly. With an array of even grander suites than my own available, it’s no surprise that the rich and famous frequent this luxurious location.

The Deluxe Suite

The first feature I noticed about my accommodation was its sheer size. It has to be one of the largest rooms I have had the pleasure of staying in over my years of travel.

Adding to the spacious nature of the room was a terrace overlooking the Mimosa Garden. This stunning feature ensured a superb view and allowed fresh air to flood the room. Thanks to the ample natural light in the suite, I could fully appreciate the soothing colour palette, light wooden floors, custom-made woven rugs and high-quality furniture throughout.

The large bed was extremely comfortable, allowing for a peaceful night’s rest. A designated working area is situated in the bedroom, containing an impressive desk and chair combination.

Adjacent to the bedroom lies a separate living room with a dining table, comfy seating, a large screen television and other practical furnishings.

The spa-inspired, marble-clad bathroom included a large bath and a walk-in shower, along with tasteful décor.

Yet another welcoming touch was the arrangement left for me on the table. An assortment of nuts, dried fruits, fresh fruit juices, bottled waters, desserts and a large, fresh fruit platter, was a fantastic way to start my stay.

Furthermore, a 24-hour butler service is on offer for all suites ensuring your desires will be attended to immediately.

Fine Dining Moments

As evening arrived, we received an invitation to dine at the prestigious two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Moments. It didn’t take us long to figure out why it’s regarded as Mandarin Oriental’s premium dining location.

This award-winning venue is run by multi-Michelin Star winner Carme Ruscalleda and her son Raül Balam and boasts a menu second to none. The fresh and healthy cuisine, inspired by Catalan culinary culture, is creatively presented and tastes sublime. The beautiful décor helps to create a charming atmosphere that further adds to this already outstanding culinary experience.

The restaurant’s professional and knowledgeable team was not only on hand to serve but to educate us on our ‘Tasting Menu’ experience – a selection of 11 dishes, each more delicious than the last, if that’s actually possible.

From the exquisitely flavourful sea bream with fennel and caviar to deer loin with roasted truffled parsnip, an extensive and impressive cheese cart and delightful bite-sized pastry desserts, every morsel was simply divine and we were thoroughly spoilt.

Aside from Moments, the hotel also houses various other exceptional culinary locations.

Blanc

This all-day dining venue is a remarkable restaurant featuring striking décor and a superb menu. The à la carte breakfasts, with a vast spread of fresh fruits, organic yoghurts, bagels, fresh pastries, wide range of eggs and cereals, along with a selection of traditional Catalan breakfasts, are a favourite amongst patrons.

La Tavola

If you’re in the mood for Italian food, look no further than La Tavola. Traditional recipes have been combined with fresh ingredients from the region, resulting in a collection of outstanding dishes. Classic Italian cuisine including phenomenal pizzas, antipasto, melanzane alla parmigiana, caprese salad and buratta with prosciutto di Parma, are just a few of the delicious options on offer. The delectable Tiramisu is one of several mouth-watering desserts to tempt the taste buds.

Other hotel venues include Terrat with its 360-degree view, Banker’s Bar, with a ceiling covered in old safety deposit boxes and Mimosa Garden, a delightful and exclusive al fresco venue filled with lavender and sunshine.

Spa & Wellness

During our stay, we were given a tour of the hotel’s celebrated spa. Boasting an area of 1,000sq/m, this grand centre is equipped with all the amenities required for complete relaxation.

Experiencing this intimate, minimalist space displaying a contemporary style but with an exquisite Oriental touch, we perused the eight spacious treatment rooms in complete serenity. Four of these rooms house aromatherapy showers, two are treatment suites for couples and two are Oriental suites with whirlpool baths and futons for the traditional Thai massage.

The Spa includes an expansive 12-metre indoor heated swimming pool, a hammam, rainforest showers and a fitness centre.

Located on the minus one level of the hotel, the fully equipped fitness centre boasts state-of-the-art Techno Gym machines and is accessible 24/7 for all guests. Numerous activities are also offered, including personal training services with individualised guidance or private yoga classes.

Over All Too Soon

The following day it was already time to say goodbye. Having thoroughly enjoyed our brief stay, we relived our experiences on the six-and-a-half-hour flight back to the Middle East. The luxurious rooms, the friendly hotel staff, the delicious cuisine and the beautiful city sites, all made for an unforgettable mini adventure. ✤

GO: VISIT MANDARINORIENTAL.COM/EN/BARCELONA FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.