Catalonia Magdalenes

Born from a derelict building reconstructed from scratch in 2016, the Catalonia Magdalenes has retained the distinctive salmon-pink balconied facade of the original structure. Inside, the reception area combines smart contemporary seating, low-level lighting, and nature-themed prints to a swish though understated effect. Sections of an ancient Roman aqueduct discovered during construction were also incorporated into the design. Just off the lobby is a small courtyard with teardrop lights that hang down all the way from a lofty skylight. The property is stylish, spotless, and immaculately presented throughout -- even hallways are elegantly finished with white panels decorated with pretty leaf designs. The crowning glory of the hotel, however, is its uber-cool, double-tier rooftop terrace with a glass-sided pool and views of the city. Guests tend to be couples on city breaks who are willing to splurge a little, and the hotel's genuine emphasis on sustainability will appeal to eco-friendly travelers. 

The Catalonia Magdalenes is located at the northeastern edge of the Gothic Quarter -- one of Barcelona's most popular neighborhoods among tourists -- with tons of restaurants (many alfresco), high-end boutiques, and souvenir shops. Numerous attractions within walking distance include Palau de la Música Catalana, Plaça Sant Jaume, Museu Picasso, Plaça de Catalunya and La Rambla -- all within 10 minutes' of the hotel. The Urquinaona metro station is also just a couple minutes' walk away, and it's 10 minutes to the Passeig de Gràcia metro that connects directly to Sagrada Família cathedral in roughly 18 minutes. Barcelona city beach is a 15-minute cab journey. Barcelona-El Prat Airport is about 30 minutes by car, or about 45 minutes by public transit. 

The hotel has 61 guest rooms, split between Standard and Superior doubles, the main difference being the size -- entry-level rooms start at 183 square feet (17 square meters) while upgraded rooms measure a more comfortable 226 square feet (21 square meters). Decor is particularly swish, with hardwood floors, smart contemporary furniture, patterned wallpaper, and metallic accents. Most rooms overlook the bright internal courtyard, some from snug window alcoves, while a handful of rooms open to small balconies overlooking the street. Soundproofing is excellent from the street, however some reports suggest internal noise can be an issue.

Amenities including large flat-screen TVs (with limited English-speaking channels), well-stocked minibars, and electric kettles with free tea and instant coffee. In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge, fast, and reliable, and there are USB ports and electric blackout blinds. Spacious and modern bathrooms have roomy walk-in showers with removable rainfall showerheads, heated towel racks, powerful hairdryers, and quality toiletries; Superior rooms add slippers and bathrobes. Frosted glass bathroom doors mean privacy might be an issue for non-couples

For a boutique-style hotel, the Catalonia Magdalenes packs in a solid lineup of facilities. An excellent breakfast buffet is served in a beautifully-tiled dining room with all the usual hot and cold dishes, plus cooked-to-order eggs, and even Champagne and a Bloody Mary station. Breakfast is not included as standard, however, though while it's fairly pricey, it's still a good value. There's also room service with a menu focused on sushi. During summer, free tapas and drinks are served on the rooftop terrace, which also features a small plunge pool, with plenty of cushioned couches and loungers. During cooler months, a snack bar opens in the lobby which extends to a courtyard patio. Guests also have free access to a small basement spa with a heated relaxation pool, steam bath, and massage treatments, plus a compact gym with LifeFitness equipment. Wi-Fi is free throughout.