03 February, 2017
Set in a sprawling 18th-century mansion house in the city's Gothic Quarter, the eighteenth property from the Soho House Group could not be better located for a weekend exploring Barcelona, whether that means hitting the beach in the summer months or following in Gaudi's footsteps on a more cultural trip.
The interiors channel the characteristically understated Soho House vibe (we'd most liken it to Shoreditch House) effortlessly blended with traditional Catalan touches such as vibrant fabrics, patterned tiles and stylish chandeliers, all of which fill high ceilinged rooms with plenty of Mediterranean warmth. With cheerful staff and the expected Soho House amenities alongside that laid-back creative community spirit, this might just be our new favourite hangout in one of our all-time favourite cities.
57 guestrooms overlook the bustling Port Vell marina, ranging from the small and snug to expansive corner rooms featuring beds big enough for four, wrought-iron Romeo and Juliet balconies and richly coloured Persian carpets. White-washed walls are softened with satisfyingly swishy curtains, indulgently upholstered velvet armchairs, pineapple-shaped lamp bases and vintage copper touches. A combination of mid-century European finds, local antiques gems and specially made Soho House pieces give rooms that chic 'undone' look which we'd so like to transport into our own home.
You can always bank on a spread at Soho House. Order from the a la carte menu of healthy egg-white and spinach omelette, runny and rich eggs Benedict or glorious berry pancakes. Can't decide? Opt for the extensive buffet where you can stuff yourself silly with cereal, locally cured meats, a selection of cheese, toast, fresh fruit and yoghurt. If the weather's nice, head up to the roof terrace so you can linger over your coffee until mid-morning while taking in panoramic views of the city.
The Club restaurant up on the fifth floor is open all day and is a sociable space for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Choose from a large selection of tapas plates and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes alongside the expected salads, soups and hamburgers - all of which can be enjoyed on the roof, weather permitting. If you're after more of a refined affair, head to Cecconi's on the ground floor. Also open for breakfast, you'd do best to save this for dinner as the Italian restaurant is renowned for serving some of the best pasta outside Italy - the lobster spaghetti is to die for - with an impressive wine list to boot, as well as delicious champagne cocktails.
Of course. The bar on the club floor has a solid selection of local and global wines alongside a cocktail list boasting all the classics as well as some House twists - don't miss the Soho negroni, but rest assured that whatever your tipple of choice, these guys will make it for you. DJs spin the decks at the weekend, when the space fills up with Barcelona's cool crowd. As always, you can head up to the roof with a drink in hand if you're in need of some fresh air. Cecconi's also has a bar which we'd recommend for an aperitif.
Alongside the restaurants, bars and roof terrace, the house also has a Cowshed spa, gym (complete with workout and yoga studios, spin classes, steam room and House Press juice bar) and two pools - one on the rooftop and one in the spa.
The pearlescent mosaic indoor pool and spa are open to the public, so even if you're not staying at the House you can still treat yourself with some of their facilities.
Pretty much everything! Head down to the beach for paella and prosecco or wander into town to explore Barcelona's never-ending labyrinth of streets packed with cafes, restaurants, bars and galleries - you'll never be far from home.
