A stay at the InterContinental Barcelona envelops you in the refined elegance and rich cultural heritage of Catalonia. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by décor that seamlessly fuses modern luxury with Catalonian charm, reflecting the region’s vibrant traditions. From the rooftop, take in stunning 360-degree views, including the Gothic spires of La Sagrada Família and the undulating forms of Gaudí’s Casa Batlló. Here are my top five highlights you cannot miss.
The lobby of the InterContinental Barcelona is a true wow of a welcome. Despite the hotel’s understated gray façade, stepping inside reveals soaring ceilings and impeccable design details. The use of local textiles, Catalan tilework, and ceramics, paired with a Mediterranean palette of blues, terracotta, and little pops of color, connects the space to the region’s heritage. The atmosphere is undeniably stylish, yet warm, offering multiple venues to relax and soak in the sophisticated nod to Barcelona’s rich Catalan culture.
From the ground floor lobby to the rooftop terrace, this hotel is all about breathtaking views. Seven floors up, the terrace offers an amazing 360-degree panorama of Barcelona, one of the best in the city. Here, you can see everything from the Torre de Collserola and the Tibidabo to the Montjuïc cable car, the Sagrada Familia, Plaza España, and the Palacio Nacional. Whether lounging by the rooftop pool or enjoying Mediterranean flavors paired with a cocktail, you’ll have an unparalleled perspective of Barcelona’s skyline that’s gorgeous by day and dazzling by night.
The InterContinental Barcelona takes relaxation to another level with its stunning indoor pool. Designed with a nod to Antoni Gaudí, the pool reflects a deep connection to the Mediterranean Sea and sky. The rich, deep-blue hue of the water, enhanced by subtle lighting and polished stone tiles in varying shades of blue and gray, creates a serene wellness escape. Whether you’re doing laps or simply resting in an immersed chaise longue, the perfectly heated water and muted ambiance make this an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring the city. Large windows allow natural light to pour in while you enjoy the peaceful reprieve.
Indulge in a day of pampering at the hotel’s luxurious spa, where treatments are inspired by local traditions using ingredients like olive oil, lavender, and sea salt. The tranquil setting, complete with soothing music and soft lighting, helps you unwind and forget the outside world. Featuring a water circuit, dry sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi, gym, and six treatment cabins, this cosmopolitan retreat offers an extensive treatment menu using renowned Catalan brands such as Natura Bissé and SCENS.
Dining at the InterContinental Barcelona is a culinary journey as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Each venue reflects a unique aspect of Mediterranean life. Start your day at Arrel Restaurant, where the open kitchen offers a buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner service that evolves with the seasons. For an elevated dining experience, Quirat presents a Michelin-starred menu crafted to highlight the purity and freshest bounty of Mediterranean cuisine. As the day winds down, ascend to the 173 Rooftop Terrace for authentic Mediterranean small plates and breathtaking views of Barcelona. Whether it’s a rooftop respite, small refreshments in the Boira Coffee & Tea Lounge, or full dining at Arrel or Quirat, there’s a culinary setting that draws you into the soul of Barcelona.
The InterContinental Barcelona is a gateway to the heart of the city. Each experience, from the first step into the stunning lobby to the final swim in the serene indoor pool, weaves together a tapestry of memories that embody the elegance, culture, and vibrancy of Catalonia. Whether you’re enjoying culinary experiences, soaking in breathtaking views, or pampering yourself in the spa, the InterContinental Barcelona offers an unforgettable blend of luxury and local heritage.
Article and Photos by Raquel Baldelomar
Raquel Baldelomar is an entrepreneur, author, and journalist. She is author of Sugar Crush (HarperCollins, 2015). Her journalism focuses on how travel leads to a unique kind of productivity, creativity, and wellness. She can be found at https://www.instagram.com/raquel.b.la.
