Hotel Constanza

Family run hotel with newly revamped indulging design bringing great prices and an easy style to the centre of town

There is a common assumption that good rooms have to cost a fortune, but the Constanza breaks that mould. Here you get style and comfort at good prices, making this a real find in Barcelona. Better still, it’s a family-run operation: small and properly welcoming, with a natural quirkiness that comes from being able to call your own tune.

Step in and discover an 1826 interior that’s just had a 21st-century facelift. The feel is immediately refreshing, the décor boldly contemporary. There are light concrete walls on one side of reception, dark wood walls on the other. Big paper lamp shades hang from the ceiling, white suede sofas and chairs fill the lobby behind. Vases of flowers stand in alcoves, smoked-glass tables hold the morning papers. It is comfortable, stylish, gentle - and embodies all the simple economies of scale that make small, traditional hotels so much fun to stay in. You don’t get much beyond the lobby, the breakfast room and your room, but you do get a smile at breakfast and quick chat when you pick up your key.

Highs

• Great location in the centre of town, away from the noisier districts
• Stunning refurbished bedrooms with very attractive prices
• Friendly, efficient service
• Fabulous new roof terrace planned for 2009

Lows

• Recent feedback shows that neighboring building works have detracted from enjoyment of client's stays
• No pool, no bar, no garden - but a rooftop terrace coming soon
• No fresh orange juice at breakfast
• The walls are thin and sometimes you hear more of your neighbours than you wish