Review of Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

The former headquarters of the Banco Hispano-Americano Bank, today houses the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, enjoying an enviable location in the heart of the city. A contemporary hotel hides behind an elegant if rather austere 1955 façade with classical bas stone reliefs surrounding the oversized entrance to the property. Behind the entrance, visitors ascend to the lobby via an elevated catwalk through an interior atrium topped by a glass roof allowing you to see the modernist structure within. This leads into a relaxed and contemporary lobby area with modular seating, delicate wall panels and a neutral colour palette which predominates throughout the hotel. There are 120 elegantly sleek guest rooms and suites, many with private balconies, designed by designer Patricia Urquiola including the spectacular Barcelona Suite with a huge private furnished terrace overlooking Barcelona and an über-indulgent Penthouse Suite occupying the entire top floor.

When hunger beckons, there are four outlets to assuage the appetite including the all-day dining Blanc Restaurant and Lounge; the two Michelin starred Moments Restaurant under the helm of chef Carme Ruscalleda; Banker’s Bar serving innovative cocktails and Terrat for al fresco dining overlooking the rooftop outdoor pool. For relaxation, there is the peaceful oasis of the 660 square metre Mimosa Garden, designed by landscape architect Bet Figueras in collaboration with Patricia Urquiola, serving daytime refreshments, and the serene Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona with a minimalist aesthetic and eight spacious Asian styled treatment rooms including two for couples offering a wide range of treatments and holistic therapies. Other wellness facilities include a sleek 12 metre indoor lap pool; a fully equipped fitness centre; a rooftop sanctuary with outdoor pool; a HairSpa by Miriam Quevedo (who doubles as a life coach and nutrition specialist) and a Beauty Room by Vanitas Espai.