Sabàtic, Sitges, Autograph Collection

Sabàtic, Sitges, Autograph Collection

"Why book? This bright, modern, box-fresh hotel combines the sleek aesthetics of a Mediterranean beach club with a siesta pace of life. Entering the lobby feels like opening a design magazine—kentia palms lean next to smart sofas and bookshelves where the books’ spines intentionally turn inwards. But it’s the focus on small-group experiences with local makers, such as a ceramics lesson or a vineyard tour, that ensure there’s plenty of heart behind the good looks. Set the scene It’s initially surprising that Sàbatic isn’t right beside the seafront, given that beach life is kind of Sitges’s thing. But being a 15-minute walk outside of town brings several blessings. For one, lots of space—and you’re really struck by this in the roomy bedrooms, where 485 sq feet is the smallest size. Then there’s the involuntary exhale you catch yourself making when you step away from Sitges’s pretty-but-pumping little streets. While Sàbatic has multi-visitor appeal—families, business travelers, friendship groups reconnecting via the hotel’s exclusive in-house wine—everyone seems to travel with a Zen energy. Maybe it’s the light, or the morning yoga, or the swaying-lavender-filled terraces, but being stressed just doesn’t work here. The backstory Sàbatic is part of Marriott’s premium Autograph Collection, and opened in summer 2022. It definitely still has that new-hotel glint in its step. The rooms It’s an all-suite affair—90 in total—which means that each has a separate living room, dining area and ocean-facing balcony or terrace (the biggest of which brag outdoor sofas and tables). Among luxe neutrals, it’s the additional details that make the rooms special. Find Marshall speakers with ready-made playlists to stream. A record player and Frank Sinatra on vinyl. A sports kit that doesn’t only include the obligatory yoga mat, but resistance bands, foam rollers, and free YouTube classes. A favorite touch was the in-room telescope which, quite literally, brought the waves of the Mediterranean inside. Food and drink Sabàtic’s Pasatempo restaurant is rumored to be run by the chef behind a Barcelona institution (a hint to clued-up foodies: think Calle Provença). What we can say for sure is that there’s a good selection of rice dishes (visually striking, with the main seafood component served on top), as well as light salads and tapas—though it’s the same menu for lunch and dinner. A highlight is the complimentary vermouth experience served at the cocktail bar, where you can learn about the origins of the drink, how locals drink it, and what they nibble at the same time. A word of warning—you only notice how strong it is when you step off that barstool! The spa Coming soon. The neighborhood/area You’re in a residential area, 15 minutes’ walk from the train station (with shuttles at selected times) and an even shorter stroll to Sitges town and the beach. The only downside to the off-center location is the construction work going on. The hotel’s done a commendable job of putting the equivalent of noise-cancelling headphones on it—there’s calming chill-out music on the terraces, which are heavily planted for privacy; in summer evenings, when they fire up the outdoor cinema or live music, you barely notice. But you do lack a bit of privacy on your balcony, particularly first thing when the construction workers start, and the ethos of being able to switch off in complete stillness is—at least temporarily—not quite attainable. The service Full marks to the Guest Experience team for arranging authentic activities with local artisans, such as making a bowl in the studio of talented (and patient!) ceramicist Adolfo Morgan—whose clay pieces are dotted around the hotel. You can also do a wine tasting at Finca Viladellops, a winery and 50-hectare vineyard, built in 1877, in the D.O. Penedès region. The guide brilliantly explains the history, including why the tiny hamlet has a visible skeleton. For families There’s a separate kids’ pool and regular group classes, such as family yoga. Eco effort It has the highest energy efficiency rating (class A/A), air con is generated via renewable methods, plastic is limited where possible, and it has 43 recharging points for electric vehicles. Accessibility There are two wheelchair-adapted suites, both on the first floor. Anything left to mention? Sàbatic is a top pick if you prioritize statement interior design, and sunlight is your spirit animal. Its smart, upmarket touches elevate Sitges’s hotel scene—from the adults-only library and pool, to a gym whose personal trainers are so good that local residents come specifically to see them. When the dust sheets are removed from all the neighborhood construction work—including the hotel’s own spa—it will be a fantastic wellness location, too." - Gemma Askham