Quietly but steadily, Hotel Miramar Barcelona began a much-needed metamorphosis last January to reach the top tier of luxury accommodation in the city. It has remained open during these months, balancing its upgrades with guest bookings from those who choose its unique location—nestled in the peaceful surroundings of Montjuïc, yet just a stone’s throw from the city center. Now, it enters the final stretch of renovations, with most rooms and common areas already revamped, while the hotel finalizes the selection of the brand that will operate it.
Architectural Transformation and Interior Design
The 1929 Universal Exposition transformed Barcelona, leaving behind iconic landmarks that still define the city's landscape today. Spaces like Plaça Espanya, the National Art Museum of Catalonia, or Poble Espanyol evoke a time when Barcelona was establishing itself as a modern metropolis. Among these great symbols, on the eastern slope of Montjuïc, stands a palace with privileged views over the city and the Mediterranean. What was once an exclusive restaurant during the exposition is now the home of the luxury Hotel Miramar Barcelona, where history and sophistication converge.
This historic building hosted elegant banquets and dances until 1959, when it became part of the TVE studios in Barcelona. The elegant structure served as a television set for many years, but by 1983, it fell into disuse. Over 20 years later, it was reborn as the luxurious Hotel Miramar Barcelona, offering guests a unique and memorable stay. Today, this iconic property is undergoing a complete transformation to restore its original splendor and evolve into an urban resort with the grandeur of its palace roots.
Source: La Vanguardia: Este hotel de lujo de Montjuïc fue emblema de la tele de los 60 y hoy es un refugio de paz y diseño
Change of Ownership
In January 2024, Atom Hoteles, a REIT backed by Bankinter and GMA, acquired both Hotel Miramar and Gran Hotel La Florida for €50 million.
Sources: Europapress: Atom Hoteles compra por 50 millones el Hotel Miramar y el Gran Hotel La Florida de Barcelona Forbes España: Atom Hoteles compra por 50 millones el Hotel Miramar y el Gran Hotel La Florida de Barcelona - Forbes España
Integration with the Environment and Local Community
The hotel’s renewed vision seeks to integrate its natural surroundings in Montjuïc, offering privacy and exclusivity. It also aims to create synergies with nearby cultural institutions such as the Miró Foundation, the Port and Montjuïc cable cars, and other cultural alliances -enhancing the guest experience while strengthening ties with the local community. Among the cultural programming being planned are contemporary art exhibitions and creative spaces that will also showcase the building's rich history, which is being revived once again.
Signature cuisine and Michelin-starred experiences
Gastronomic excellence will be one of the key pillars of the new identity. Studio Restaurant will offer a contemporary culinary concept, featuring an outstanding kitchen and service team.
Private events and celebrations will bear the unmistakable signature of Michelin-starred chef Nandu Jubany, who brings creativity, technical expertise, and a deep respect for quality ingredients to each experience.
Sources: Gran Hotel Turismo and El Periódico Nandu Jubany abrirá dos restaurantes en el Hotel Mim Sotogrande de Messi: Hincha y Tribuna Rooftop
Location and Views
The property already benefits from a nearly century-old protected building, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the city, and the 'monument' designation granted to heritage hotels by the Barcelona Hotel Association to highlight their cultural value. Now, with the renovation of its facilities, the aim is to combine “history, innovation, nature, and sophistication.”
Eugenia Zozaya, Director of Sales & Marketing at Miramar, explains that the new interior design is based on comfort and an “elegant” atmosphere of “calm.”
Most of its 75 rooms have already been updated with light tones, noble materials, Egyptian cotton linens, and particular attention to the bathrooms, which feature amenities from the renowned Catalan brand Natura Bissé. Rooms open up to balconies and terraces, now enhanced to connect with the outdoors and embrace the concept of an urban oasis.
The lobby and reception, along with lounges and restaurants, have also been renovated. Among the many upgrades, a new state-of-the-art wellness spa stands out across from the Forestier Gardens. It will offer advanced beauty and wellness treatments and is part of the final renovation phase, expected to be fully operational by early May. It also includes a renovated gym, a hair salon, and an indoor pool.
An oasis of wellness, design, and exclusivity
The new Hotel Miramar Barcelona will be much more than a hotel: a contemporary retreat where calm and exclusivity are felt in every corner. The rooms will feature amenities by Natura Bissé, while the Pool Club & Cabanas by Patricia Urquiola, with exclusive Kettal furniture, will offer an unparalleled space for relaxation. The comfort experience will be completed with Egyptian cotton linens by Bassols, a Miramar Spa with a heated pool, hammam, sauna, and exclusive treatments, as well as a unique Hair Spa in Barcelona with renowned stylists. For wellness enthusiasts, the hotel will offer a 24-hour Fitness & Technogym equipped with the latest technology, ensuring a fully luxurious experience in every detail.
Source: El Periódico: Así renace el hotel Miramar en Montjuïc tras su reforma para estar en el 'top' del lujo en Barcelona Sibaria Luxe Living Hotel Miramar Barcelona: El Nuevo Ícono del Lujo
