Review: Passeig de Gracia Apartments
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What's to love?
A beautiful early 20th century apartment block is located on Passeig de Gracia, surrounded by some of Barcelona's most amazing architecture (check out the Gaudi building, above, which is just next door). This is also one of Barcelona's most exclusive shopping avenues. The apartment provides a wonderful home-from-home and a much-needed retreat away from the tourist-heavy Las Ramblas area.
First impressions
The apartments are just a stone's throw away from Diagonal station, which conveniently runs 24 hours a day. On arrival,we found the staff extremely welcoming and friendly - they were keen to offer helpful suggestions of local sites, bars, restaurants and markets.
This place is perfect if you...
...want a luxury feel at a relatively low price, making it perfect for families and those on a budget. The well-equipped kitchen is also great for wannabe chefs wishing to make the most out of the local markets. Those with a passion for fashion will revel at the upmarket boutiques and shops (don't forget your credit cards!).
Best rooms in the house
There are a number of apartments available, most with their own balconies or terraces. Couples would love a one-bedroom Passeig de Gracia Suite Apartment, while families can choose from a number of larger options. There's no scrimping here: the beds are hute, there's a large plasma TV and fully equipped kitchen.
Where to eat/drink
Barcelona is overflowing with restaurants, but it's best to avoid the tourist traps. Instead, why not make your way towards Placa del sol. On your way, stop off at some of the delicious Tapas restaurants and finish the evening off sipping Mojitos in the square.
Things to do, places to see...
If you visit in the summer, hop on the metro to La Barceloneta and explore some of the city's great beaches. The Olympic diving pool is also a great way to cool off and offers unrivalled views of the city. And do head to the newly redeveloped bull-ring, Las Arenas de Barcelona for a unique shopping experience and a panoramic view of the city.
Top tip
Speak to the staff at reception - they are a real goldmine of information. You'll get insider tips on where to eat, things to see and what to do nearby. It's a great way to see the city through the eyes of a local and to avoid the tourists.
Score out of ten?
Ten. The apartments are in a great location surrounded by some of Barcelona's finest architecture.
Details
For further details of how to book an apartment like this, visit Spain-holiday.com (020 3384 7066; spain-holiday.com). We stayed in a one-bedroom Passeig de Gracia Suite Apartment in central Barcelona, close to the city's main attractions. A three-night stay until November 2011 (high season) is priced from £95 pp (based on four sharing) or £138 pp (based on two sharing). Flights extra. ]
Dave Leonard stayed in a Passeig de Gracia Suite Apartment courtesy of Spain-holiday.com, which features around 5,000 holiday homes across Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands. All properties are rented directly from owners who are fully verified by the company before they are permitted to list a villa or apartment on the company's website.
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