Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, the essence of Mandarin Oriental’s continued global success! (REVIEW)

Since opening in 2010, Mandarin Oriental Barcelona has been the undisputed absolute luxury market leader, ranking not only as the finest luxury hotel in Barcelona but also one of the top luxury urban hotels in Europe. Housed within a majestic building formerly occupied by a bank, Mandarin Oriental Barcelona is located on the prestigious Paseo de Gracia, in the very heart of the city walking distance from Plaça Catalunya and the Gothic Quarter (Old City).

Paseo de Gracia is home to some of the world’s most iconic architectural landmarks including Casa Batlo by Antoni Gaudi or Illa de la Discòrdia. In 1906 the architect Pere Falqués i Urpí designed the avenue’s now famous ornate benches and street-lights. Passeo de Gracia is also one of Europe’s most fashionable avenues, boasting flagship stores and boutiques of many top international luxury brands.

There is a a predominant sense of prestige – sleek and elegant, but also equally welcoming and comfortable – without being rigid or imposing. Reputed architect Patricia Urquiola has re-created contemporary interiors defined by relaxed luxury. The quality of the furnishings and finishes is outstanding, with many bespoke furniture pieces. The attention to details has been paramount! Over time, the hotel has been conducting consistent and expansive works to maintain the product at the highest standards.

A hanging access ramp crosses a courtyard, leading to the hotel entrance. Separated by metal grids, it allows a glimpse into the hall and lobby. 3D textured walls confer the space an enhanced depth. The aerial walkway feels almost like a catwalk for all the guests whether entering or exiting the hotel – it is a unique WOW factor which extends a sense of laid-back luxury. One can observe how guests are enjoying the scenic entrance which marks the sequence of transition between the exterior and the interior.

The atrium is awash with light, both natural and artificial. The former is produced by the zenith glass skylight. The latter is produced by the geometric shifts of the window frames of the access corridors to the rooms. This allows for the continuity of spatial and sensory perception between day and night. The chic lobby area resembles a larger living room with a gold mirror ceiling and lavish sofa-type sitting. The colour scheme is predominantly in shades of beige and light brown.

The hotel boasts an exceptional variety of dining options. The Moments restaurant which proposes dishes inspired by traditional Catalan cuisine is overseen by Michelin-starred Chef Carme Ruscalleda, one of the most famous chef’s in Spain. The hotel’s Blanc restaurant is a stunning white dining room with a glass ceiling at the lower ground-floor of the hotel which is serving all-day dining. Breakfast is among the best in Barcelona, with a wide selection of buffet and a-la-carte dishes.

Banker’s bar is a moody affair, paying homage to the building’s history. With its ceiling constructed from the safety desposit boxes, I made full use of the extensive cocktail list during our stay. The Mimosa courtyard garden houses an exquisite bar which is an exclusive retreat, an alternative to the buzzy shopping district of Paseo de Gracia. Guests often choose accommodations facing the courtyard garden which is most serene.

Terrat, the rooftop restaurant of the hotel, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city as well as a chilled swimming pool. The hotel has recently introduced a new menu which reinterprets classic tapas with a creative twist, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include red prawn carpaccio with smoked caviar, crispy potatoes with roasted garlic aioli, oysters prepared in three styles and creamy veal croquettes with yellow chilli.

In 2014, the hotel expanded with 17 suites and 5 rooms within an annexed adjacent building. The new suites which were also designed by Patricia Urquiola stand out due to their spaciousness, high ceilings and abundance of natural light. Among the bespoke pieces of furniture and other decorative details are: the Tatou lamp for Flos, the sofa and tables for Moroso, the Husk armchair for B&B, the Re-trouvé stool for EMU and the tiles for Mutina.

Bathrooms are large, featuring separate walk-in showers and separate bathtubs. You will appreciate the high water pressure of the rain showers as well as the luxurious bathroom amenities by Spanish brand Miriam Quevedo, an award-winning anti-aging powerhouse in skin and hair care. I have particularly enjoyed the plush towels and the essential oils selection for recreating a most indulgent bath. The sleep experience was outstanding, with superb bedding and high thread satin cotton linen.

The welcome amenities selection included a delicious traditional cheese cake and a special tart to celebrate the San Joan festivities. The fresh hydrangeas were mesmerising, adding to the selection of fresh seasonal fruits which did taste delicious. The set up of the welcome amenities and the presentation was impeccable. There were also fresh white orchids in the bathroom and amenities are replenished daily. The room felt crisp and fresh at any time of the day ! Housekeeping service was beyond words!

Service throughout the entire hotel is flawless. The entire team is highly motivated, energised and enthusiastic. They do strive to provide the ultimate personalised and individualised service. And they do deliver! 15 years since my first stay, I was pleased to be welcomed with the same warmth and care. They do pay attention to every detail and strive to anticipate any wishes the guests may have. It is impressive to see how they perform as an orchestra and how service is extended effortlessly and seamlessly.

You will rejoice over feeling pampered and in good hands. Do expect that the entire team addresses you by your name, making you feel respected, appreciated and taken care-of. The team is also seamlessly adapting to each guest. Over the years, Mandarin Oriental has been carefully and sensibly gathering guest preferences and wishes from each stay and this information is constantly updated, whether it is related to your preferred time for housekeeping service or your favourite flowers or type of pillows.

Ahead of my stay, I have downloaded the new Mandarin Oriental app which I have found very practical and easy to use, facilitating a direct interaction with the hotel at any time. The updated Fans of M.O. guest recognition program features, member recognition and acknowledgement of all member spend during hotel, dining and spa visits.  The new app, provides seamless digital access to bookings, travel and itinerary planning, personalised in-stay requests and local concierge support

Besides its outstanding location, exceptional product and flawless service, Mandarin Oriental Barcelona has achieved and maintained an impeccable reputation. Maintaining consistency, reliability and relevance as well as a genuine sense of prestige – almost like belonging to a private club, have been instrumental to the uninterrupted success of the hotel. Attracting locals (non residents) and keeping up deep connections with the destination have been instrumental!

Oliver Petcu in Barcelona

 

 

 

 

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