 The London 2012 Olympic Games were designed to “Inspire a Generation” and I doubt anyone would disagree with this sentiment. It was simply impossible not to get caught up in Olympic fever and evident today as there seem to be more cyclists on my journey to work and the gym car park is always full.
The Games that inspired my generation (The Who pun not intended) was Barcelona in the summer of 1992; I remember the thrill of Sally Gunnell hurdling her way to gold and the heartbreak of Derek Redmond’s father helping him across the finishing line as if it was yesterday. The Games also had the most wonderful evocative soundtrack that would play each time there was a break from Des Lynam or Steve Ryder’s commentary where Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Cablle would steal the show for just a few seconds. Freddie Mercury has always been one of my “fantasy dinner party guests” remembered for his eccentricity, creativity and love of all music styles; it was no wonder that when asked to write a show stopping theme for her home city games in 1987 Montserrat called upon Freddie to produce something spectacular that would put Barcelona back on the map.
The 1992 Olympic Games have certainly left an indelible mark on Barcelona, no longer in Madrid’s shadow it is the “most go to” Spanish destination, the fabulous architecture of Gaudi dominates the skyline, the nightlife is superb, the dining fine and if that all sounds like too much effort, relax on the sandy beach.
Where to Stay
The Hotel Arts is the natural choice for the discerning traveler, situated on the waterfront with panoramic views of the beach and former Olympic village. The Executive suites are chic and contempory, however for a longer stay one of the 28 luxury apartments on the top floors of the 44 floor hotel is the only address in town- spacious and exclusive, a real treat.
Www.hotelartsbarcelona.com
For something a little more boutique the Grand Hotel Central also comes highly recommended, situated in the Gothic district this is an ideal spot to explore the city from the usual tourist traps to finding an authentic tapas bar to enjoy true Catalan cuisine. The hotel has the best rooftop pool in Barcelona, arguably, Spain and the open air “SkyBar” is the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail and enjoy the awe inspiring view across the city. Book the Master suite and you have it all with this hotel.
Www.grandhotelcentral.com
Where to Eat
In the Central business district, Chef of the moment, Jordi Vila runs his restaurant “Alkimia” showcasing the best of old and new Catalan cuisine, featuring not one but two taster menus. Booking is essential and the black chocolate and eucalyptus ice cream is a taste sensation not to be missed.
Www.alkimia.cat
Vinya Roel is a restaurant offering a taste of classic Barcelona. Seafood and tapas are a specialty and you will be surprised by the extensive wine collection carefully selected to compliment the dishes to perfection.
Www.vinya-roel.com
Where to Party
When the sun goes down most people head to the bustling Las Ramblas, extremely popular with tourists and sadly pickpockets alike. First stop head to Can Paixano, otherwise known as “The Champagne Bar”, the bar gets packed very early so it’s worth booking a VIP table in advance for large parties.
Www.canpaixano.com
For a more relaxed experience take a taxi to Dry Martini which is located off the Avinguda Diagonal which, as it sounds runs diagonally through the city. The bar has a cool laid back vibe and as the name suggests there is only one drink to be seen with.
Www.drymartinibcn.com
Culture
Barcelona oozes with culture and there are many interactive museums to enjoy along with the standard bus tour of the city. The Picasso Museum is not to be missed, however the influence of Antonio Gaudi has become synonymous with Barcelona. The architecture at the top of Las Ramblas is surrounded daily by eager tourists with cameras, however his unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrad Familia Cathedral is a must see. The breathtaking 160 metre spires can be seen from miles around and form an essential part of the Barcelona skyline. A word of warning, try not to visit on a Sunday as the cathedral gets extremely busy for the obvious reasons.
Sport
May visitors to Barcelona feel that The Camp Nou is the city’s real cathedral and there are tours daily. Visitors are able to explore the football museum, dressing room, press room and even walk through the tunnel onto the pitch. The club’s motto is “Mes que un club” (more than a club) and for football fans who share this sentiment a trip is essential, better still with a carefully planned trip, attend a match too to enjoy world class football.
Www.fcbarcelona.com
Extravagance
Just along the coast from Barcelona are a number of quiet bays and empty beaches, impossible to reach by road. For a real adventure charter a yacht for two days and explore the Catalan Coastline. This really is the way to combine the perfect city break with a dream experience. Relaxing, exploring, learning and partying, Barcelona really has it all.
Www.burgessyachts.com
Getting There
BA Fly twice daily from various UK airports, If like me you can’t get enough of Terminal 5 fly from Heathrow.
Www.ba.com
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