In the centre of the Eixample district, the former Vedruna palace, dating from the 19th century, is today home to the Claris hotel, one of the most beautiful hotels in this capital of Catalonia. It is ideally situated a few paces from the Passeig de Gracia, the longest and most luxurious avenue in Barcelona, and in the city’s liveliest district. The hotel is a gem of refinement, come from another age. It’s the ideal place for anyone in search of elegance in a cosmopolitan and dynamic atmosphere, and who might like to stroll past lovely boutiques, restaurants and bars, while admiring the Art Nouveau façades by Antonio Gaudi.

The spacious rooms and suites have been entirely renovated in a cosy yet chic style, and decorated with charming ancestral portraits and 17th century furniture. Everything has been done to retain the charm of this former palace. Marble, wood, frescos and wallpaper combine to make each room an exceptional setting, with clearly contemporary comfort.

The first floor houses a unique salon-museum of works from the Mayan civilisation, and pre-Columbian pieces from the centre and west of Mexico and the Andean region. Come to this magical place to refresh yourself with art and luxury, and to admire, from the spectacular terrace, an unequalled view over the Catalan capital.

Dining at the hotel is an equally sophisticated experience. The hotel has two gourmet restaurants: La Terraza del Claris, in the roof of the hotel, offering Mediterranean cuisine, and the Os-Kuro Sushi Bar y Robata, with delightful Asian cuisine. For my own part, as I always love to do, I paid especial attention to the breakfast which featured a multitude of fresh, healthy options.

Between great luxury and great history, the Claris Hotel is the ideal place to stay, to see the high points of Barcelona, and to enjoy the vigorous life of the Catalan capital.

Nu