"How did it strike you on arrival?Set in a 19th-century mansion just off the Passeig de Gràcia, Monument is a chic hotel in a glitzy location. The entrance is large and impressive, and the design is on point. It would be easy to find a hotel this impeccable somewhat intimidating, but Monument’s courteous staff will put you at ease from the moment you step through the door. What’s the crowd like?Many guests here are visiting gourmands who have chosen the hotel for its strong gastronomic offering. Tell us about your room.There are two room classes: suites and Deluxe rooms, all of which have balconies facing either the street or the interior courtyard. The best views are from the Suite Monument and Suite Passeig de Gràcia that overlook Barcelona’s most iconic boulevard and Gaudí's famous La Pedrera building. Every detail has been carefully thought through to maximize your comfort and enjoyment, from the impressive soundproofing that makes the ultra-comfy beds that bit dreamier to the gorgeous, yet functional design features and the free minibar packed with complimentary soft drinks, snacks, and M&Ms — there is no need ever to go hungry, thirsty, or sleepless. How are the beds?The hotel works almost exclusively with upscale brands: Egyptian-cotton linens by Barcelona firm Bassols, 100 percent goose-down comforters from Ferdown, and pillows by Cocomat. How are the bathrooms?All bathrooms come with separate rain showers and bathtubs, as well as heated floors. The products are from Diptyque. Is there Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi is free in all rooms and public areas. Anything stand out about other services and features?When you learn that Spain’s most Michelin-starred chef Martín Berasategui has been put in charge of gastronomy at Monument, you will not be surprised that the culinary offering here is a cut above the rest. From Lasarte, one of only two three-Michelin-starred restaurants in central Barcelona, to the modest, but by no means underwhelming one-star Oria, to the generous à la carte breakfast, served on Monument’s splendid Verbena rooftop terrace, this is the place to impress even the pickiest of gourmands. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Monument has established itself as one of the brightest shining stars on the Barcelona hotel scene. Book a stay here and you will not be disappointed." - Isabelle Kliger
