Ramelleres 27, Raval, Barcelona, Spain | 34 933018135
Convenient location in El Raval, near Las Ramblas and Plaza de Cataluyna
Spacious rooms with air-conditioning, some have flat-screen TVs and balconies
Family Rooms feature microwaves and mini-fridges
Free coffee, tea, and cake for breakfast
Free glass of wine in evening, free tea and coffee all day
Nearby parking for a reduced fee
Computer desk and bicycle rentals on-site
LEED certified for eco-friendly practices
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Nearby bar activity means a bit of noise in some rooms
Facilities are limited -- no bar or restaurant
Not all rooms have TVs
Hostal Grau is a charming, three-pearl option located close to Las Ramblas and Plaza de Catalunya. It's within walking distance of numerous restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions, and the metro is close by as well. The family-owned property emphasizes eco-friendly practices throughout, and has been LEED certified for its efforts. The 26 boho-inspired rooms are simple, but all have en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms add flat-screen TVs, and some have mini-fridges, microwaves, and balconies. Free tea and coffee are available all day, and free wine is served in the evening. Travelers looking for more on-site features in the same price range could check out the boutique Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona, which has a restaurant and bar, plus a rooftop terrace with a pool.
Scene
Environmentally focused hostal housed in historic building with charming, cozy style
This simple little family-owned hostel dates back to 1862 when it opened as the Bar Centric, named for its central location. The building was later enlarged and turned into a hotel that blends classic appeal and bohemian style. The lobby is cozy, with a chalk sign saying "We're glad you're here," and another saying "Live simply." Plates hanging on the wall spell out "home." Check in takes place seated at a desk, unusual for a hostal. The wall behind the desk is covered in wallpaper with a bold green leaf pattern, and there's a counter with bar stools. Many of the furnishings throughout are rustic and made of reclaimed wood. A curving staircase leads up and downstairs, and there are elevators as well. The hotel is committed to being environmentally conscious in all of its practices, and has been LEED certified for its efforts. The majority of guests are couples, but all sorts of travelers are seen here. Some select it for its excellent location, and others for its eco-friendly practices.
Location
Prime location close to Las Ramblas and Plaza de Catalunya
This hostel is in the northern part of El Raval, close to Las Ramblas and the University of Barcelona. Many restaurants, bars, and shops surround it, and Plaza de Catalunya is just a five-minute walk away. The area constantly buzzes with people, and at night there's a fairly active bar scene all around. Those seeking culture are in luck, as the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art is also only a five-minute walk from the hostal. Barri Gotic is just across Las Ramblas, and will take about five minutes to reach on foot as well. It's a 15-minute walk down to the waterfront. The closest metro stations, Plaza Catalunya and Universitat, are also about a five-minute walk, and a trip to Gaudi's iconic Sagrada Familia takes around 20 minutes by metro. Barcelona-El Prat Airport is about 30 minutes from the hostal by car, or 40 minutes by public transportation.
Rooms
Bright, simple rooms with air-conditioning and en-suite bathrooms, some with balconies, TVs, microwaves, and mini-fridges
Rooms are spare and simple, with gray tile floors, white walls, and high ceilings. Bedside tables are made from banana tree trunks, and other furniture pieces were made from reclaimed wood, giving it all a boho-chic look that's complemented by pendant lighting. Mattresses are made of organic materials. All rooms have air-conditioning, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms add flat-screen TVs and/or balconies. Irons, ironing boards, and hairdryers are available on request. Some rooms have sofa beds for additional sleeping space. Family rooms can accommodate up to six people, and they come with microwaves and mini-fridges. Bathrooms are tiled in white and come with natural toiletries in large eco-friendly containers. Showers have rainfall showers. Views are mostly of neighboring buildings and the street. Windows in all rooms are double glazed for soundproofing and energy conservation, though light sleepers in streetside rooms will likely hear some bar noise in the evening.
Features
Free tea and coffee all day, free evening wine, bike rentals, and free Wi-Fi
Like most hostals in Barcelona, features are limited, though what's offered does add a little value and charm. One of the two communal rooms has a table with an Apple computer for guests to use. It's a bright, sunny space with large windows. The other communal space has a cushy sofa for lounging and a dining table and chairs. The black-and-white checked floor stands out against the exposed brick and stone walls and exposed beam ceiling. A simple breakfast of tea, coffee, and cake is served there each morning, and guests are treated to a free glass of wine in the evening. Bicycle rentals are available on-site. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.