Shortly after opening, Intercontinental Barcelona rightfully claims top five position among city’s luxury hotels (REVIEW)

Opened in 2021, Intercontinental Barcelona has been making headlines not only in Barcelona and in Spain but also internationally, many agreeing it boasts a product which is above the standards of the luxury hotel brand, globally. In less than 2 years since opening, InterContinental Barcelona boasts the city’s finest Club Lounge (one of the finest among any Intercontinental Hotels property worldwide) but also a spectacular Roof-Top,

The 179 Roof-top is among the largest of any luxury hotel in Barcelona, with 360 degree panoramic views, on one side with the skyline of Barcelon with the sea in the distance – and the majestic Montjuïc National Palace on the other side. The roof-top features a breathtaking elevated fully transparent glass swimming one of the most instagramable spots of Barcelona. During the day, the roof-top is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, while in the evening it is the perfect spot for a casual dinner with a view. Live music bands are hosted weekly.

The Club Lounge features a sophisticated and sleek interior design ideally providing the ideal place for those sipping on a drink, having breakfast, spending time with family while planning a city visit and finally, last but not least, those who choose to catch up on work. The Intercontinental Club Lounge is also uniquely serving a wide selection of traditional tapas in the afternoons. Service is flawless – Lisa and her team are extremely courteous and going out of their way to please guests. It is more than a private reception but also an ideal Concierge support for guests.

Another major achievement of the property, especially considering Barcelona is a world renowned gastronomic destination, is the Michelin Guide One Star which was awarded for its Quirat Restaurant. The hotel’s signature restaurant, is helmed by Victor Torres, the youngest Spanish chef to be awarded a Michelin star. The restaurant is open exclusively for dinner, with dishes that highlight seasonally available and locally sourced ingredients.

Breakfast is abundant and delicious – with a very wide selection – without any doubt one of the best in Barcelona. Breakfast in the Club Intercontinental Lounge is almost identical to the one at the main restaurant. Because of the large ample spaces, non of the public areas feels busy or crowded – at any given time of the day. There is also a sense of dramatic picturesque at the hotel’sGebre Cocktail and More which offers a selection of classic and signature cocktails, but also at the Boira Coffee Loungeis a great space for relaxation any time of the day. Needless to say, such generous indoor offerings with translate into an all-year solid operation.

Most of the spaces on the ground-floor of the hotel are majestic, with mega high ceilings, thus extending a feel of prestige and elegance. Every single corner has been carefully designed, both pleasing the eye but also with a WOW factor in mind. No expense has been spared in the furnishings and quality of finishes which are of outstanding standards. Spaces are sensibly conceived to serve different purposes for different guests for diverse purposes.

With 80% of luxury hotels in Barcelona not having a Spa, The InterContinental Barcelona Spa is one of the most spacious spas in the city, with nearly 13,000 sq. ft. of space for its extensive wet area: steam bath, sauna, hammam, a hydrotherapy pool, jets and water beds. Guests can enjoy massages and facial treatments in six spa treatment rooms, including two couples’ rooms. There are specific treatments but also rituals.

Rooms are suites are spacious for Barcelona standards – all accommodations have been exquisitely renovated – tasteful, elegant, practical but also very comfortable – with heavenly comfortable beds and high-thread satin cotton, a serene AC which adjusts to the desired temperature in seconds, wide screen UHDTVs and immaculate white bathroom, most of which feature separate glass walk-in showers (perfect water pressure) and separate free-standing bathtubs.

The Byredo amenities in sustainable packaging are a real treat! No details have been overlooked in the finishing of every single detail in the bathroom – you will love the Egyptian plush thick towels and bathrobes. Soundproofing is impressive – both indoors and outdoors, while the pinnacle of technology are the Apple interface Tvs and complimentary 5G wi-fi internet throughout the entire hotel. There are generous spaces for storage and most accommodations have a wardrobe but also a small business desk.

While its location in the Montjuic / Fira District (Fairs & Exhibitions) may not be instantly appealing, I have discovered during my stay that the very heart of the city and all attractions are with a maximum 10 minute taxi ride. The neighbourhood is authentic and in many ways, it feels less ‘touristy’. Unlike some downtown areas, Fira and the hotel proximity is extremely safe! I would also highly recommend venturing on foot around the hotel – many great finds.

The international airport is less than 30 mins drive. The Fundació Joan Miró (Miro museum) is a 16 minute walk, while the Sagrada Familia and Picasso Museum are each a 15 minute drive from the hotel. The Plaza Catalunya is about a 10 minute drive or half hour walk. Best of shopping on Rambla or Paseo de Gracia are also within 10 minutes from the hotel. The Concierges of the hotel are perfectly knowledgeable to cater to both first timers in Barcelona and those who already know the city.

Although it opened in pandemic, Intercontinental Barcelona is outperforming many other luxury hotels in Barcelona with a consistently high service throughout the entire hotel and all departments. Staff are warm, welcoming, friendly – and most importantly nowadays, genuine – with a passion to serve. Expect to be recognised by name and expect to feel pampered, respected and well taken care of.

I was impressed with the leadership of the hotel how quickly they managed to assemble such a motivated and well blended team, especially in the context where so many luxury hotels in the most diverse destinations are facing huge staffing challenges. One of the very strategic decisions was, most probably, to ensure that as many staff as possible who used to be with the hotel before the renovation are maintained as part of the new team.

Last but not least, thanks to the global reach of Intercontinental Hotels, the Barcelona property has an ideal mix of guests, which is critical for any luxury hotel. The versatility of the hotel to cater to singles, families, solo trips, leisure or MICE – is truly impressive and also a major unique selling point especially post-pandemic.

Oliver Petcu in Barcelona

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