Hotel Actual

Rooms

The 36 rooms are generic, with a minimalist and utilitarian feel to them. Each has stark white marble floors and white walls, with dark wood as the only contrast. The rooms are small but functional, and all have an ensuite bathroom with a bath (and a hand-held shower), as well as reasonable air conditioning for the summer months. Beds are comfy with big round pillows - and there are more in the cupboard if you need them, though there isn't a huge amount of clothes storage space. Double doors between the bathroom and bedroom keep plumbing sounds out, but we did hear some noise from neighbours and the lift.

Some Standard Rooms have no views to speak off; others look out over the Passeig de Gràcia. If you can, book one of the higher, rear-facing rooms (510 and 511 are best), which offer views of La Pedrera (or Casa Milà, to give it its official name). The Standard Superior Rooms are slightly bigger and have balconies.

If money is no object, splash out on one of the 6 Junior Suites. The only rooms to depart from the generic two-tone colour scheme, these have have panelled or elaborately painted ceilings, more headroom and modern four-posters set against warm grey walls. One comes with a vast chandelier - and an equally vast flatscreen TV to set it off.

There's good, free WiFi (if you bring your laptop), but no room service or in-room coffee-making facilities; for that you'll have to go down to the small communal lounge-bar on the first floor.