Focus

W Barcelona, also known as the ‘Hotel Vela’ because of its shape (vela is Spanish for ‘sail’), was designed by the architect Ricardo Bofill. Since its construction, the hotel with its reflecting glass surface has become one of the icons of the skyline of this Catalonian city. Currently a member of the Starwood Hotels and Resorts chain, this five-star establishment has 473 rooms as well as 67 suites and employs some 400 people. A roof terrace bar offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. There is also a spa, a gym, an indoor and outdoor pool and a gourmet restaurant whose Michelin-starred chef is Carles Abellán. In the ground-floor bar, decorated in marine colours, a Magmafocus fireplace sits in the centre of the room like a sculpture rising from the waves.