A WEEKEND AT KIMPTON VIVIDORA BARCELONA

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is widely recognised as the cultural hub of the city and at the heart of this lies the always stylish Kimpton Vividora hotel Barcelona – an urban oasis brought to life by IHG hotels and resorts.

Stretching from the tourist centric area of La Rambla to Via Laietana, the area is home to many of the city’s oldest landmarks, from the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, to the Roman and Medieval walls. Today, the Gothic Quarter, otherwise known as Barri Gòtic, attracts tourists from around the globe thanks to its amazing architecture, impressive history and abundance of eateries and shops.

First impressions – Palm trees, bright colours and a delightful scent

The hotel sits on the surprisingly quiet street of Carrer del Duc, and is marked by the hotel’s signature scent, which is strong enough to capture the attention of passers by. I say quiet – by that I mean it’s tucked away enough to avoid the buzzy sounds of nearby La Rambla, whilst still being in the heart of the action. The hotel has done a good job of retaining the historic façade whilst incorporating a theme of modern luxury and contemporary style.

Guests are welcomed into the impressive lounge area, filled with an abundance of palm trees, clashing colours and oversized chairs. You’ll find check in on the second floor, which is facilitated by helpful staff who are all too happy to offer you their knowledge of the local area.

Five star amenities, comfortable rooms and far stretching views

The hotel’s ethos is to offer guests a ‘home away from home’ environment, which is echoed within the 156 guest rooms and suites. Our premium city view room took direct inspiration from stylish, upscale Kimpton Barcelona apartments, with a Mediterranean colour palette of terracotta tones and vibrant blues alongside natural wood and sleek marble countertops.

The Juliet balcony is a firm highlight, offering views of the famous Barcelona Cathedral, as well as a glimpse into local life from the surrounding apartments and terraces, which are home to groups of friends laughing over wine on balmy Spring evenings.

As expected of a boutique hotel, amenities are a highlight – we were welcomed to our room with a platter of fresh fruit, a fully stocked mini bar filled to the brim with premium spirits, as well as plush robes, luxurious toiletries and niche magazines scattered throughout the room.

Dinner at Fauna, followed by evening drinks at Terraza de Vivi

There are three drinking and dining options throughout the hotel. GOT is an informal coffee bar by day, and an atmospheric cocktail bar by night. The main restaurant, FAUNA, is a more formal dining experience which champions local flavours and ingredients.

Menu highlights include the paella dishes, in particular the ‘Parellada’ rice with baby squid and red shrimp, as well as the grilled kimchi octopus. Factors like the after dinner package, featuring a bottle of liquor of your choice as well as a personalised card set and a selection of sweets and nuts are a nice touch.

The pièce de résistance, or rather the pieza de resistencia, is the Terraza de Vivi, a buzzy rooftop bar on the 7th floor of the hotel. By day, guests can enjoy long days surrounding the Instagrammable rooftop pool – though small in size, it boasts views of the city and cosy sun loungers that allow you to soak up the Mediterranean sun – and in the evening, enjoy the vibes over bespoke cocktails and see Barcelona lit up by night to a soundtrack of intimate conversations and laughter.

The local area – Explore the Ciutat Vella neighbourhoods

A stay at the Kimpton Vividora puts you right in the heart of Barcelona. Whether you choose to explore lesser known attractions such as Casa Vicens and Hospital Sant Pau, or want to tick off Barcelona’s most famous sights (I might judge if you don’t pay at least a quick visit to the Sagrada Família), the Kimpton Vividora provides a truly luxurious experience that allows for immense comfort after a long day of exploring. For beach bums, the hotel is an easy 25 minute walk from Barceloneta Beach, and allows for a stroll through the Gothic Quarter’s historic streets.

The good-to-knows: Pet-friendly accommodations and a social happy hour

Other special touches throughout the hotel includes its renowned pet-friendly policy, with the only rule in place being that your pet has to fit in the elevator – so unless you’re travelling with a horse, your furry friend can enjoy a luxurious break by your side. There’s also a nightly happy hour in GOT bar, which offers guests free wines and vermouths for a limited time, designed to encourage natural conversation with other guests, as well as bike and longboard hire, complimentary yoga mats and a world class spa and wellness room.

Why choose the Kimpton Vividora Barcelona?

Whether visiting for work or pleasure, the Kimpton Vividora fuses together luxury and culture in the heart of Barcelona’s gothic quarter. From best in class amenities to comforting, home like rooms and buzzing social areas, the hotel offers a charming experience for every type of guest. The first expansion of the Kimpton brand into Barcelona, the hotel is a welcome addition to the city’s boutique hotel offering, and one I hope to see expand in the near future.