The 2011 Romance List
Mandarin Oriental - Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
From our private terrace looking down on Barcelona, we nibble on local tapas and admire the haphazard skyline of one of Europe’s classiest cities. Below us, Gaudi’s Casa Mila sits proudly on one of Spain’s swankiest streets – Passeig de Gracia – with its Chanel, Armani, Cartier and Gucci outlets and its vibrant street scene. The most tantalising feature of this hotel is that all the action of Europe’s liveliest city is just there, metres away, but we’re content for now in our own private universe. But what a private universe this is.
The Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, recreated with contemporary Spanish furnishings by local designer Patricia Urquiola, was made for people in love. It oozes sophistication, with private Mimosa Gardens offering a green oasis for al fresco dining, or try one of Barcelona’s top restaurants, Moments, with traditional Catalan cuisine prepared by one of the world’s most acclaimed female chefs, Carme Ruscalleda. Elsewhere there’s a private roof terrace with dipping pool and 360 degree views of Barcelona or you can relax under the glass roofs of a gigantic atrium after a signature spa treatment. The hotel has two types of suites perfect for honeymooners – the Barcelona and Terrace Suites, each 90 square metres in size with 24-hour dedicated butler service.
Review from Craig Tansley [Meet our Romance List Panel]
Why you'll love it
Wander the romantic streets of Barcelona, with its world-renowned architecture and its 24 hour street-side action; but ‘home’ – with its sun-drenched terraces, Jacuzzis, atriums, landscaped gardens and Catalan-style restaurants and bars - is never more than a short walk away.