12 July, 2019
At the heart of Barcelona's creative quarter, Yurbban Passage is a haven of relaxation best enjoyed between days sampling tapas and stumbling upon side streets. Chill out in the city's first organic, vegan spa or drink in the cityscape with rooftop cocktails at sunset.
Yurbban Passage offers a tranquil escape in Barcelona's bustling El Born district. The brick walls and iron window frames evidence a once industrious site which has been transformed with the addition of a spacious spa and rooftop pool, taking on a new guise as a peaceful oasis overlooking the spirited city centre. The building sits above the Passatge de les Manufactures, a passageway frequented by merchants in its past life, and which has now been revived and converted into an artistic and gastronomic hub.
A sense of calm washes over as you enter the cool, dimly lit lobby, elegantly designed and fragranced with Yurbban's evocative custom scent. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed with a drink and details of your stay - don't forget to make a note of complimentary cheese and wine hour each evening. Spend drawn-out days exploring the city: sample tapas and stumble upon side streets and secret squares between gallery viewings. Come evening, return to Yurbban Passage to soak up the golden hour glow with a G&T on the roof, counting the church spires that punctuate the panoramic city skyline.
There are 60 rooms - including Standard, Premium and Premium Terrace - each decked out in a minimalist aesthetic by the Barcelona-based interior designer Raquel Sogorb, who has opted for a palette of oak, walnut, linen and beautiful fabrics that pay homage to the hotel's textile-industry roots. The Yurbban Premium Terrace is our room of choice, with a private balcony overlooking the surrounding rooftops. Inside, there's a spacious living area, sleek bathroom with rain shower, and a bluetooth gramophone on which to play your carefully curated holiday playlist. It's the little touches that make Yurbban Passage special. Treat yourself to a bottle of cava and truffles from the minibar before clambering into bed - if you're not already tired from exploring, the complimentary pillow spray will guarantee a restful night's sleep.
Guests can enjoy a typical Catalan breakfast, either in the restaurant or on their in-room terrace. There's a menu of mouthwatering dishes as well as a buffet table laden with cured Iberian hams, a selection of cheeses and fresh bread, as well as a deliciously rich Spanish tortilla.
Hotel restaurant D'Aprop is headed up by the Michelin-starred chef Xavier Franco, and offers traditional Catalan flavours with a contemporary twist, all made with local produce. The menu features an array of starters including roast chicken cannelloni and an eggplant omelette with roasted onions and peppers. There are also many fresh seafood dishes from which to choose - the cuttlefish risotto is our winner.
Yes, both poolside and in D'Aprop. We suggest taking your tipple of choice up to the roof and drinking in the panoramic view of the city.
This is the first organic, vegan spa and sauna in Spain, stocked with homemade products and essential oils for the most delightfully soothing experience. Beauty treatments here aim to pamper body, mind and spirit in a multi-sensory experience. Recuperate from the hustle and bustle of the city, or gather strength before heading out on the town. The lounge area encompasses a library, shuffleboard and photo booth as well as the Local Store which stocks items made by local craftspeople - the ideal last-minute memento. All of this is in addition to the roof terrace and swimming pool, gym, laundry and free WiFi throughout the hotel.
The hotel offers free bikes for guests to explore the city with ease - the Finna Cycles bikes, manufactured in Barcelona, can be requested upon arrival. If you like Yurbban Passage, pay a visit to its sister hotel, Yurbban Trafalgar, located next door.
A short stroll down the road will take you to Parc de la Ciutadella, a green oasis in the heart of the city - the perfect spot for a picnic in the afternoon sun (the nearby Santa Caterina Market is the ideal place to stock up on local specialities and a bottle of wine en route). At the park, rent a small boat or cool down with a paddle in the lake. If plants are your thing - don't miss the tropical greenhouse.
