Nestled in the heart of the Catalan capital, El Palace Hotel promises an opulent escape, particularly during the magical Christmas season. Formerly Ritz Barcelona, the hotel’s grandeur seamlessly blends its rich heritage with contemporary flair, making it an unforgettable destination. My stay during the holidays was nothing short of a sensory delight, awakening every sense in a cascade of luxury and festive cheer.  

Sight

Walking into this legendary property feels like stepping into a scene from The Great Gatsby. The lobby, a dazzling explosion of Versailles-inspired opulence, boasts hand-painted wallpaper, ornate gilded mirrors, and dramatic Oriental vases. The breakfast annex is equally mesmerising, with Greek statues, oversized iron street lamps, and a quaint Berber tent that sets the tone for an elegant start to the day.  

At Christmas, the visual grandeur is elevated. Sparkling fairy lights, lavishly adorned Christmas trees, and meticulously arranged garlands evoke a sense of wonder. On the rooftop, the Gingerbread House, nestled under the central pergola, glows warmly against the crisp winter night, evoking images of a fairytale village. Each corner of the hotel, from the neo-classical guest rooms to the iconic Ronnie Wood Suite, is a masterpiece of understated luxury or thematic indulgence.  

Taste

The festive menu at Amar by Rafa Zafra is a culinary revelation. The restaurant embodies a love affair with Barcelona and the Mediterranean, offering delicacies like caviar on brioche, seasonal uni with caviar, and perfectly briny oysters. Each dish reflects Zafra’s philosophy of finding luxury in simplicity, with a focus on the finest ingredients.  

For a cozy winter treat, the Rooftop Garden’s cheese and chocolate fondue was a heartwarming indulgence, while the festive Afternoon Tea in the Grand Hall offered a delectable array of holiday-themed pastries and savories, accompanied by the soothing notes of live piano music. From gourmet seafood to comforting holiday classics, every bite was a celebration of taste and tradition.  

Smell

The signature fragrance, curated by Carner Barcelona, lingers softly throughout the property, infusing the air with a warm, woodsy aroma that is both inviting and luxurious. This bespoke scent, inspired by the hotel’s storied past and Barcelona’s vibrant spirit, added an intimate layer to my experience.  

The festive season brings additional aromatic delights: the spicy warmth of mulled wine, the hypnotizing allure of coco wafting from the Rooftop Gingerbread House, and the fresh pine scent of Christmas trees adorning the hotel. Together, these scents painted a fragrant memory of my stay that I’ll cherish long after leaving.  

Touch

Every element at the hotel invites you to feel its history and luxury. The thick, swirly carpets underfoot, the smoothness of marble fireplaces in the guest rooms, and the silky textures of the drapes exude elegance.  

The Mayan Luxury Spa elevated the tactile experience to a new level. From the heat of the pre-Hispanic sauna to the soothing pressure of a volcanic stone massage, the spa offered a sensory journey rooted in ancient Mayan traditions. Every treatment was luxuriously applied, leaving me in a state of pure relaxation.  Even the simplest touches — like the eco-friendly Lab Noma toiletries in generously sized bottles and the cool, polished surface of the grand gilt mirrors — whispered of thoughtful indulgence.  

Sound

Despite its location on bustling city streets, El Palace is an oasis of calm, with soundproofed rooms that ensure a peaceful retreat. The Grand Hall comes alive with the delicate tinkling of a piano during Afternoon Tea, while the Escolanía de Montserrat’s annual charity concert filled the space with angelic harmonies, capturing the spirit of Christmas.  

At night, the Bluesman Cocktail Bar added a sultry rhythm to the ambiance. With live jazz performances and the gentle clink of glasses, the bar became a cozy haven for both guests and locals, a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.  

Read More: The Oberoi Al Zorah, An Oasis of Serenity

The Magic of El Palace at Christmas 

My stay here was a journey through time, tradition, and modern luxury, brought to life through the five senses. From the glittering holiday decor and exquisite flavors to the soothing spa treatments and the hotel’s signature scent, every moment was steeped in festive cheer and grandeur.  

As Barcelona’s grande dame of hospitality, El Palace didn’t just provide a place to stay — it offered a multi-sensory experience that embodied the enchantment of Christmas in one of Europe’s most captivating cities. If you ever find yourself in Barcelona during the holidays, do yourself a favor: let this address be your home away from home. You can thank us later! 

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