Grand Hyatt Barcelona: A haven of sophistication in the city’s heart

ByAndrea Thompson

June 12, 2024

Located in the heart of Barcelona’s most prestigious district along Avenida Diagonal, the Grand Hyatt Barcelona stands out as a symbol of opulence and elegance.

Hotel and history

Its sleek façade and Instagram-worthy photo spots, along with contemporary interiors featuring mirrors and suspended art pieces, pay homage to the city’s architectural legacy. Meanwhile, the panoramic views from its rooms provide a window into the soul of Barcelona.

The hotel’s rich history contributes to its charm. Initially opened as the Hotel Princesa Sofía in 1975, it has experienced multiple transformations before its complete renovation in 2017. It became part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt in 2018 and was fully rebranded as the Grand Hyatt Barcelona in April 2024.

Rooms

With 465 rooms which include 49 suites and an art deco inspired penthouse.  The rooms with their chic décor, including  wood panelling, earthy shades, decorative hanging lights, and an elegant seating area with a desk and geometric rug.

Each room is equipped with standard amenities including a TV, coffee machine, fluffy bathrobes, and slippers. The bathrooms are modern, featuring dual sinks, a walk-in shower, and Natura Bissé toiletries. Guests also have the option to choose club lounge rooms, which offer access to an exclusive lounge and include tapas and drinks available throughout the day.

The upgraded lighting controls at the bedside were user-friendly, complemented by the electronic blackout blinds, but the highlight was the night light that automatically turned on when entering the bathroom.

Amenities

Guests have an array of activities and amenities at their disposal. The hotel’s culinary spaces delight the taste buds, while the Wellness & Spa area offers a haven of relaxation. Every feature of the hotel is crafted to deliver an exceptional experience. The outdoor pool and terrace serve lunch and drinks under the Mediterranean sunshine, and for those who wish to stay active, a 24-hour gym is available.

At the heart of the hotel are several distinctive dining destinations that offer a fusion of locally inspired and internationally influenced flavours.

  • Impar: Breakfast Restaurant
  • Philosofia: Coffee and pastry shop – it’s like sitting in your very own library and also has an outside area.
  • Sofia Bar & Tapas: A cocktail and tapas bar presents a distinctive mix of Mediterranean cuisine and tapas, complemented by signature cocktails available for enjoyment indoors or on the exclusive outdoor terrace.
  • Leña: A new steakhouse is set to open, featuring the culinary expertise of Michelin-starred Chef Dani Garcia, known for his innovative approach to traditional cooking techniques, particularly his mastery of open-fire cuisine.
  • Maymanta: The Peruvian restaurant on the rooftop, located on the 19th floor, offers a perfect 360-degree view of Barcelona, ideal for sipping a Pisco Sour while watching the sunset. Chef Omar Malpartida takes guests on a culinary journey through the landscapes of Peru, tantalizing your taste buds with the diverse and authentic flavours of South America. Open past midnight  with chilled music/DJ, it’s a hotspot.

Meeting spaces and activities

The Grand Hyatt Barcelona’s amenities are not limited to its luxurious rooms but also include its event facilities, which are equally as impressive. Boasting 22 meeting rooms and over 35,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space, many featuring natural daylight, the hotel is well-prepared to accommodate events of all sizes. This includes a grand ballroom with a capacity for up to 800 guests and my favourite and very boujee “The ZUU”. Additionally, these event spaces offer a separate entrance and dedicated car parking spaces.

The concierge can organize a range of guest experiences, including wine tasting, boat trips, cooking classes, and walking tours.  Also worth mentioning is the strong ties it has with FC Barcelona and the local people.

The staff are an asset to the hotel, always greeting guests with warm smiles, conducting themselves professionally, and offering extensive local knowledge. They consistently go above and beyond expectations. Despite the high traffic of guests, the premises remain immaculate, no  sticky fingerprints or rubbish to be seen.

In conclusion

The Grand Hyatt Barcelona is more than just a place to stay; it’s a luxurious escape that embodies the spirit of Barcelona. With its rich history, opulent amenities, and prime location, it stands as a testament to the city’s enduring charm and the pinnacle of hospitality excellence. Whether for leisure or business, the Grand Hyatt Barcelona is a hotel that truly has it all.