Borneta

The place

In El Born, a sandstone building given a second life. London studio Thurstan worked in earth tones and sage green; the 92 rooms and suites carry Spanish furniture, antiques, and artwork, many with a balcony of their own.

The rooftop is the quiet center of it all — a pool and terrace looking out over Parc de la Ciutadella. Below, a gallery lounge, a cozy library, a refresh room, and a gym that keeps no hours, open around the clock.

Meals happen at Volta, the al-fresco restaurant and bar under chef Andrea de Benedictis. The menu is Mediterranean, treated with a light, creative hand.