Last updated: February 02, 2025
There’s nothing better than the expensive fragrant aroma which exudes from the lobby of a ‘lifestyle’ hotel. Borneta in Barcelona is no exception and we’re warmly welcomed at the check in desk like old friends.
Part of the Miiro hotel brand which translated from latin means ‘I marvel’, it’s a hotel concept that’s really knows where it’s trying to position itself. With the Le Grand Hotel Cayre in Paris, The Mansard in Gstaad and new hotels this year in Templeton Garden London, and two in Vienna, their Barcelona property has been open since last year.
The luxurious boutique style Borneta is nestled in the heart of the vibey El Born area of Barcelona and it definitely appeals to the inquisitive traveller. A feast for the senses, there’s unique Catalan style furniture, art everywhere, lovingly designed spaces and just a gorgeous sense of beautifully put together aesthetics that feel homely yet opulent.
Hotel Rooms at Borneta
We had the pleasure of enjoying two different hotel rooms during our stay at Borneta. Positioned under the Porxos de Fontseré arches in the old artisans’ quarters of the city, the hotel is in a great location right opposite the Ciutadella Park. In our ‘superior’ room, we loved the balcony views of Passeig de Picasso, the hand-crafted king sized bed, ample room for suitcases and storage and the most powerful rainfall shower I have ever experienced! Decorated in neutral tones with a splash of warm Spanish style colour, air con, flat screen tv, wifi and Le Labo toiletries all come as standard.
Borneta also boasts five incredible junior terrace suites which we had the pleasure of experiencing for our last two nights in Barcelona. At 28 sqm (301 sq. ft), these rooms offer unrivalled relaxation and space. The al fresco area is set across two levels with a huge terrace including table and chairs, outdoor shower, and further seating up the small set of steps with panoramic views and total privacy. We loved the open plan style and seating of the room, the gigantic and super comfortable bed, and the marble double vanity unit in the bathroom complete with aged brass detailing and the huge rainfall shower.
As part of the ‘full works’ package, Borneta’s junior terrace suite also comes with a complimentary mini bar which includes soft drinks, whisky, vodka, gin and mixers which are re-stocked each day.
With the suites all located on the fifth floor, you’re just a minute away from the stunning rooftop terrace and pool with loungers and more incredible views. The Rooftop also features a bespoke egg sculpture by Argentinian artist Pilar Zeta which adds a little something special to this area of the hotel.
Volta Restaurant & Bar
Volta Restaurant & Bar really is something special. No expense has been spared on the standout bar area and the cocktails are truly amazing. The restaurant area which is also used for breakfast, was full to capacity on Saturday morning – testament to the fact this brunch spot is a destination restaurant in its own right.
Styled with gigantic plants and natural furnishings, Volta also has an open kitchen and we enjoyed grazing on fancy small plates in the evenings – after watching them being prepared with the most incredible attention to detail.
With quite a small menu, these sharer style plates were all packed with vibrant flavour using locally sourced ingredients. We particularly loved the mille-feuille style starters topped with juicy peppers, fresh smoked sardines and shavings of parsley butter.
The finely sliced black Angus roast beef with peppery mizuna, nutty comte and the tangy, herbaceous gribiche sauce was a taste sensation and larger plates like the ribeye and truffle mash were equally as decadent.
Culurgiones – small Sardinian parcels were stuffed with pecorino, potato and mint and decorated with truffle shavings. How the chefs managed to pack such a feast of flavour into such tiny bites is a marvel!
Wine pairings were spot on – we loved the Jose Pariente 2023 which offered freshness and good acidity with a slight creaminess – perfect with the smoked salmon. A glass of Ca N’estruc Negre 2023 with aromatic notes and a hint of spice went well with the roast beef, while a standout digestif had been made with carrot juice, lemon, spices, Cretan masktika and Seville oranges. A complex and amazing drink.
After four nights at Borneta, we felt like we knew all of the staff as friends. Full of recommendations on late night cocktail bars, where to get the best views of Barcelona and filling us in on the history of The Three Kings Parade which was taking place while we there, we were sad to leave!
There are some hotel brands that just stand out for their level of service and attention to detail and Miiro is definitely that. Prices start from £290 per night. Book your stay at Barcelona’s Borneta, here.
