Ever dreamed of blending medieval mystique with modern comfort? Cue the spotlight on Hotel Neri, a dazzling gem nestled in a regal 17th-century mansion right in the heart of Barcelona. As the city’s sole Relais & Chateaux property, this place is your ticket to a historical escapade dipped in luxury.
Hotel Neri isn’t just a place to rest your head—it’s a historical odyssey begging to be experienced. The charm, the charisma, and the captivating corners of this medieval marvel in Barcelona await. So why not step into this enchanting world and let the adventure unfold? Visualize striding through a stunning 12th-century palace, now a chic boutique hotel with only 22 stunning rooms—each one a cosy time capsule of its own. This enchanting abode rests beside the charming Placa de Sant Felip Neri, flaunting stone walls and archways that scream history. No gym in sight? No sweat! The hotel’s stunning style and slayer location more than make up for it. Imagine sipping cocktails on a terrace overlooking a quaint square, or enjoying a lush rooftop bar that oozes quirky charm. Sure, lugging heavy baggage might be a bit of a workout on these snug, quiet streets, but trust me, this serene hideaway is worth every calorie burned!
AESTHETIC WONDERLAND INSIDE
Gone are the days of loud palettes and plush velvets; Hotel Neri has embraced a tranquil symphony of creams and greys. Elegant black and white photos create a chic, gallery-like vibe. My room of choice was a jaw-dropping apartment, offering medieval allure and delightful views of cobbled streets bustling with tapas joints. Talk about living a fairy tale! Wrapped in sophisticated neutrals and delicate fabrics, my stay was the epitome of luxurious cosiness. The sleep preferences menu was like a dream come true—choose your linens, pick your pillows, and float off into dreamland. And the bathroom! An oasis of tranquillity, boasting both a bathtub and a rain shower, infused with serene mood lighting and Molton Brown products to die for. Fun Fact: Molton Brown, a prestigious British brand, has been crafting luxury body care products since 1971, often favoured by high-end hotels worldwide.
EMBRACE THE HISTORY
Wandering through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter feels like leafing through the pages of a history book. This is where Romans once roamed, and now, you tread these ancient cobblestone streets lined with snug shops, charming cafes, and picturesque residences. With Hotel Neri as your base camp, exploring can’t get any better. The bells of the majestic Barcelona Cathedral appear to play just for you, right around the corner from your sanctuary. Embark on a quick 5–10-minute stroll and find yourself amidst Placa de Sant Jaumeor standing awe-struck in front of the iconic churches of Santa Maria Del Mar and Santa Maria Del Pi. Fun Fact: These gorgeous landmarks even featured in Tom Holland’s ‘Uncharted!’ Feeling peckish for adventure? The waterfront and the famous vibrancy of Las Rambla await, promising never a dull moment. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, rejoice! A mere five-minute jaunt leads you to Calle Petritxol, a pedestrian paradise filled with chocolate and churro shops, including the legendary La Granja Dulcinea, that has been satiating sweet cravings since the 19th century, making it a historic and delicious stop for both tourists and locals.
INDULGENCE IN THE DETAILS
Picture this: dining at the incredible A Restaurant, where every dish is a nod to Catalonia’s rich culinary heritage and sprinkled with global flair. Think scrumptious delights like the “fougasse and Rum Baba” that tantalize your taste buds. Did you know “fougasse” is a French flatbread that dates back to Roman times and is often infused with regional flavours? This isn’t just eating; it’s a feast for all your senses! When the sun sets, head to Roba Estesa on the rooftop, a lush, romantically lit paradise perfect for unwinding under the stars. It’s like stepping into a whimsical medieval story, if castles had rooftop retreats and modern cocktails, that is. Fun fact: Barcelona’s mild Mediterranean climate means you can enjoy this rooftop delight nearly all year round! Hotel Neri has the proud badge of Relais & Chateaux, a global collection of nearly 600 luxury spots that are synonymous with unique stays, exquisite dining, and unparalleled service. President Laurent Gardinier calls them paragons of ‘excellence, food, experience, and culture,’ and after a stay at Hotel Neri, I totally get it. Did you know that the Relais & Chateaux association was founded in France in 1954 by a group of hoteliers and chefs who wanted to set a standard for the highest quality of hospitality? If you’ re after a romantic refuge steeped in history, nestled right in the throbbing heart of Barcelona, look no further.
A MEDIEVAL DREAM
Yes, there’s a boutique five-star price tag, but for the magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience Hotel Neri offers, it’s worth every penny. By the way, the building itself dates back to the 12th century, making it a true historical treasure! What transforms a stay from pleasant to unforgettable? The little luxuries that Hotel Neri nails to perfection. Imagine cosying up with a snug throw blanket thoughtfully provided, or being greeted by fresh clementines at check-in. Their turn-down service is a delightful nightly ritual, complete with chocolates, and a chic glass water pitcher that’s refilled twice daily. Here’s a quirky tidbit: Clementines are sometimes known as Christmas oranges, traditionally given as holiday gifts! These small yet significant gestures echo the meticulous attention to detail found at icons like the Four Seasons and Six Senses. Each thoughtful touch made us feel like we were at home—but a way fancier, fairy-tale version of home. Though it may be a few years before our return to Barcelona, Hotel Neri has cemented its place as my top haunt. I can’t recommend this gem—and any Relais & Chateaux property—highly enough to fellow travellers craving a truly memorable retreat. Did you also know that Barcelona is famed for its architectural wonders, including nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites by Gaudí and Domènech I Montaner? It’s the perfect backdrop for a place as extraordinary as Hotel Neri!
(Awarded the “Best food writer in the country” by the Indian culinary forum, WACS and the Ministry of Tourism, Rupali Dean writes on food and travel.)