Evenia Rosselló

Housed in a nondescript seven-story building with gray metal window frames, the Hotel Evenia Rossello looks much plainer from the outside than it is inside. The hotel’s strong focus on design is clear from the moment one steps inside the lobby: Red, white, and black armchairs, jellyfish-shaped lamps, large metal sculptures, and a backlit wall that changes colors set the tone for a design-oriented stay. A big glass wall with orange patterns separates the lobby from the restaurant, which is decorated in a darker palette, but has a similar whimsical feel, with large sketch-like artwork on walls, and recessed lighting throughout. Sleek Barcelona-themed details dot common spaces and rooms, including Modernist-style designs on pillars, and reliefs depicting popular landmarks on walls. Although some traffic noise should be expected, the atmosphere is generally relaxed and quiet, and the restaurant’s terrace -- located adjacent to a small public park with a playground -- is a peaceful spot for a quiet drink or meal. 

The hotel is located on a small residential street in Eixample neighborhood, less than three blocks from Passeig de Gracia, a gorgeous boulevard lined with designer stores and one-of-a-kind Modernist architecture. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby, and famous Placa de Catalunya and Las Ramblas can be reached in about 20 minutes on foot. Most major attractions can be found within a 25-minute minute walk of the hotel, including the Gothic Quarter, La Boqueria Market, and Sagrada Familia Basilica, but there are also two metro stops within a 10-minute walk of the hotel. The hotel is a 20-minute drive from the airport, and the express bus to the airport stops at Placa de Catalunya.

The hotel has 94 rooms, all featuring big windows overlooking the street or a small public garden with a playground. Decor is stylish and contemporary, with hardwood floors, all-white furniture, and pops of dark gray. Rooms are a little compact, especially Standard Doubles, but glass desks and nightstands, and clean lines add visual space. Barcelona-themed details such as backlit wall panels with Sagrada Familia reliefs, and black-and-white photos of local landmarks on closet doors are eye-catching touches that make rooms chic and fun. Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, 50-inch smart TVs, digital safes, pillow menus, and minibars. Only Business Suites and Family Room have electric kettles. Rooms are well-outfitted for the price, but past guests have complained about thin walls. Bathrooms are clean and appealing, with a combination of gray tiles and wood, and either big shower/tub combos or walk-in showers. Hairdryers and a few toiletries are provided. 

L’Illa de Rossello Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and serves tasty Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist. The morning spread includes hot and cold options, as well as a few regional dishes, but some find the price a little high for the variety available. Reasonably priced lunch specials and the pleasant outdoor terrace make the restaurant a good spot for a quick bite during the day. The hotel has seven meeting rooms, the largest of which can hold up to 100 guests. All feature audiovisual equipment, and a few overlook the lobby and get natural light. There is also a small but modern fitness center with a handful of cardio machines and big windows offering street views. Additionally, bikes can be rented for an hourly or daily fee at the front desk. The hotel has a few parking spots in an underground lot that guests can book for an extra charge.