THE FACTS ABOUT A C MIRAMAR

Spain Barcelona

Barcelona's newest five-star is all about location, location, location. A wedding-cake palace balanced on top of Montjuīc Mountain with eye-popping views of city and sea, it was built to celebrate the Universal Exhibition in Barcelona in 1929. After lying derelict for many years, it was restored and revamped as a modern but whimsical boutique hotel by the AC Group, with the inspired help of local architect Oscar Tusquets Blanca. Outside, there are formal gardens facing the port, an orange-tree patio and an H-shaped swimming pool; inside is a soft, sensuous haven of caramel-coloured marble, buff leather sofas, deep-pile chocolate rugs, with dazzling details such as the fibre-optic chandelier inspired by Gaudí's architectural models of the Sagrada Familia. Bedrooms are light, bright and comfortable with designer flourishes such as Philippe Starck half-egg baths; most have sea views and some have hot-tubs on the private terraces. On the downside, the bathroom amenities are surprisingly humdrum and a 20 surcharge for Wi-Fi access just seems miserly. At the time of writing, the spa was yet to open but a decent-sized indoor pool is promised as well as steam baths, a sauna, ice-shower and Natura Bisse treatment rooms. The gourmet restaurant, headed by Carme Marsa, is stellar and the creative, seasonal menu of healthy Mediterranean dishes well worth making a reservation for. WHEN TO GO Any time after Easter, when all work is scheduled to be completed and orange blossom fills the air. ROOM TO BOOK Rooms at the front have sea views; sixth-floor rooms are the smallest, but have great picture windows and hot tubs on the sea-facing terraces. The fun and frivolous Miramar Suite (room 422), has cruise-ship windows and skylights. CONTACT Plaza Carlos Ibáņez 3, Montjuīc, Barcelona, Spain (00 34 932 811 600; www.ac-hotels.com). COST Doubles from 250 euros; Miramar Suite from 1,100 euros