THE ALMA HOTEL *****

The lobby bar

Contemporary deco style rooms

Barcelona's newest five star, one of a rapidly growing posse, is located a stone's throw from Paseo de Gracia. Unassuming, it is easy to walk straight past this gem.  Such austerity and understatement turn out to be the signature here.
The lobby and restaurant are both spartan and beautiful. Greys and blues predominate in this sparsely furnished and spacious area. Light floods in from the garden at the back and tranquility reigns. Think 30s New York. The finishing here is of the highest caliber. You cannot help nut think that the person who owns this place loves it like a person. You just want to touch everything and skim the lobby library books. There's a Giacometti hardback in there somewhere - further evidence of the passion for design here. 
In the wide corridors, old typewriter keys indicate where the rooms are located. Another lovely touch. Open the doors to reveal contemporary bedrooms that somehow transport you back to between the wars. Warm colours grace the walls and bespoke furniture marries beautifully with deco style furniture.   The pictureless walls perhaps make the rooms a little impersonal but that is just an opinion. The overall sense is one of solidity, quality and comfort. 
A trip up to the panoramic roof terrace and there is no mistaking this is the 21st century. The spectacular views of contemporary Barcelona include possibly the best aspect of the Sagrada Familia in all its glory.

lobby bar and restaurant

 Down for lunch in the restaurant and the eye for detail continues. Lovely service combining informality with efficiency (no robotic waiters here), lowish seating and a meal prepared with care and attention (even if a little on the salty side on this occasion) bring a very pleasant visit to an end.
Conclusion? Modernista Barcelona and deco New York all wrapped up in a neat contemporary package! Martini anyone?

The terrace is available for functions

slow-cooked beef