Hotel Peninsular: verdant former convent
A simple, peaceful retreat, the hotel Peninsular was converted from a convent into an intimate little hotel back in 1870. It is perfectly set just a block away from the chaotic Ramblas, and is one of the best budget choices in Barcelona.
The building's central feature is a luminous atrium. Light pours in from a delicate sky-light, and trailing plants spill through the stairwell.
Tiled galleries fringe this space, with bedrooms leading off. The rooms are plain and functional -though presumably not quite as ascetic as they were when nuns lived in the 19th century.
The antique furniture and fittings may have seen better days, but the walls are crisply painted in white and mint green, and everything is kept spotless. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning -indispensable in the sultry summer heat. Breakfast is served in a high-ceilinged dining hall.
A simple, peaceful retreat, the hotel Peninsular was converted from a convent into an intimate little hotel back in 1870. It is perfectly set just a block away from the chaotic Ramblas, and is one of the best budget choices in Barcelona.
The building's central feature is a luminous atrium. Light pours in from a delicate sky-light, and trailing plants spill through the stairwell.
Tiled galleries fringe this space, with bedrooms leading off. The rooms are plain and functional -though presumably not quite as ascetic as they were when nuns lived in the 19th century.
The antique furniture and fittings may have seen better days, but the walls are crisply painted in white and mint green, and everything is kept spotless. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning -indispensable in the sultry summer heat. Breakfast is served in a high-ceilinged dining hall.
