Almanac Barcelona

"How did it strike you on arrival?Opened in February 2018, this chic boutique hotel still feels shiny, modern, and brand-spanking-new. What’s the crowd like?Mostly middle-aged people who have that well-traveled, comfortable, yet distinctly stylish look about them. Tell us about your roomThe signature Almanac rooms are all fitted with a sofa or chaise lounge that fits into the cube-shaped window. From here, you can lie back, stretch out, and watch the city bustle by. The room has huge windows, with lots of lovely Spanish sunlight pouring in. It overlooks Gran Via—one of Barcelona’s main thoroughfares—but the soundproofing here is solid, so you'll sleep soundly.If you have cash to splash, then you might want to consider an upgrade to a Terrace Suite. A separate living room and a dreamy wraparound terrace with ample seating, all-day sunshine, and city views, make it well worth the extra investment.Anything noteworthy about the in-room amenities?It’s clear that tech is a big deal at Almanac. Lighting, temperature and curtains are all controlled from the in-room touch panels (which can be confusing until you get the hang of them), and there are gadgets a-plenty, including our personal favorite: the in-room popcorn machine, complete with popcorn kernels, just begging you to Chromecast a movie of your choosing onto the giant flat screen TV. How's the bathroomJimmy Boyd has created two bespoke scents for Almanac’s bathroom products—pear-apple and bergamot. The resulting fragrances are fresh and clean—like the bright-white bathroom itself. Food and drink Virens restaurant is popular with Barcelonans and visitors alike. The food baby of Michelin-starred Rodrigo de la Calle (who consulted for super-chef Joël Robuchon before his passing) offers an omnivore’s menu where the plants are the stars. A taste? Find caramelized leek tatin with flowers, spinach and kale croquettes, and refreshing pickled carrot gazpacho.Bottom line: worth it, and why?Room rates start at $320—and as low as $340 in high season—definitely worth it for the unbeatable location, not to mention the fact that this is one of Barcelona’s shiniest five-star hotels." - Isabelle Kliger