W Barcelona Hotel: A Luxurious Stay by the Sea
The W Barcelona Hotel, also known as Hotel Vela (Sail Hotel), is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Barcelona.
This blog post is not sponsored by the Marriott Bonvoy Program or the W Barcelona Hotel. I personally paid for this stay, and all opinions shared are entirely my own.
Located right by the beach and offering breathtaking views of the Balearic Sea, this hotel promises an unforgettable experience if you’re looking to indulge in comfort, style, and vibrant energy during your vacation.
Staying at the W Barcelona Hotel had been on my bucket list for years. When I lived in Madrid as a student, a stay like this was out of my budget.
But, returning to Madrid for a friend’s wedding felt like the perfect opportunity to finally check this dream experience off my bucket list.
The summertime is the ideal season to stay at the W Barcelona Hotel, where you can soak up the sun on the beach, enjoy pool parties with rotating DJs, relax at the spa, and see beautiful sunsets.
Here’s everything you need to know about staying at this spectacular hotel, including tips for getting there, the amenities, and my personal experience.
Getting to Barcelona from Madrid by Train
Traveling from Madrid to Barcelona by train is fast, easy, and enjoyable.
Spain’s AVE high-speed train connects the two cities in about 2.5 hours, making it the most convenient option for travelers.
Trains depart from Madrid’s Atocha station and arrive at Barcelona Sants station, both of which are centrally located and easy to access.
You can book tickets online in advance, and it’s a good idea to do so, as prices tend to be cheaper the earlier you book.
Trains run frequently throughout the day, so you’ll have plenty of options to fit your schedule.
The AVE trains are modern, with spacious seating, air conditioning, and luggage storage.
If you want an upgrade, you can book Preferente (first class), which comes with more legroom and meals included.
Once you arrive at Barcelona Sants station, getting to the W Barcelona Hotel is straightforward.
You can grab a taxi or Uber from the station, which will take about 20 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around €25-€35.
If you arrive at El Prat International Airport in Barcelona you can take a taxi or Uber, which takes about 25-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Alternatively, you can use public transportation by taking the Aerobús to Plaça Catalunya and then a taxi or metro to Barceloneta, followed by a short walk to the hotel.
When you arrive, you’ll immediately notice the hotel’s striking sail-shaped architecture, which stands out against Barcelona’s coastline.
Check-In Experience at the W Barcelona Hotel
Checking in at the W Barcelona Hotel was an experience in itself.
Since I visited during the summer, there was a long line at check-in, and my room wasn’t ready when I arrived.
However, as a member of the Marriott Bonvoy program, I received a complimentary drink voucher to enjoy at the bar while waiting for my room.
I sipped on my drink and waited for the promised text message notifying me that my room was ready.
Unfortunately, the message never arrived, so I had to return to the front desk to check on the status of my room.
Despite this hiccup, the staff was friendly and apologized for the delay.
The Rooms at the W Barcelona Hotel
The rooms at the W Barcelona Hotel are a perfect blend of modern luxury and artistic design.
My room featured sleek furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a touch of eclectic artwork (similar style to Dalí) that added a unique charm to the space.
As a Marriott Bonvoy member, I was lucky enough to receive an upgrade to an ocean-view room.
From my room, I could see boats entering and leaving the harbor, which added a tranquil touch to my mornings.
The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the bathroom featured high-end amenities and a rainfall shower, making my stay all the more enjoyable.
Pools at the W Barcelona Hotel
The W Barcelona Hotel boasts two stunning pools, each offering a different vibe:
Main Pool
The main pool is the heart of the summer party scene.
With a DJ spinning tunes during the day, the atmosphere is electric.
On summer weekends, the hotel hosts Ibiza-style pool parties that require entry tickets.
Although I visited during the last weekend of the summer when there were no DJ parties, the energy around the pool was still lively and fun.
This area is perfect if you’re in the mood to socialize and enjoy the vibrant summer vibe.
INFINITY POOL
The upper-deck infinity pool offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
Accessible with your hotel key, this pool overlooks the ocean and provides a peaceful escape.
The smaller size of this pool ensures a more intimate setting, making it ideal for unwinding after a busy day.
Bliss Spa: A Luxurious Experience
After attending a long and fun Spanish wedding in Madrid, I needed to treat myself to relaxation.
The Bliss Spa at the W Barcelona Hotel delivered just that.
I booked a massage appointment online with the hotel concierge and arrived early to make the most of the spa facilities.
I started with 10 minutes in the sauna, followed by 15 minutes in the massage pool, which left me feeling refreshed.
The spa’s ambiance was serene and luxurious, and I sipped on chamomile tea while waiting to be called for my massage.
The hour-long massage was incredibly relaxing and just what I needed after a hectic weekend.
If you plan to visit, I highly recommend arriving early to take advantage of the spa’s amenities.
The Hotel Gym
While the gym at the W Barcelona Hotel isn’t huge, it’s well-equipped with a variety of machines and weights.
The ocean views from the treadmill made my workout much more enjoyable.
Alternatively, you can go for a run along the beach path just outside the hotel.
However, during the hot summer days, the path can get crowded.
If you’re an early riser, a morning run along the beach is a fantastic way to start your day.
Dining at the W Barcelona Hotel
As a Marriott Bonvoy Gold member, I had the option to include breakfast at no extra cost.
The breakfast buffet was a highlight of my stay, offering a wide variety of fresh and delicious options to start the day.
From pastries and fresh fruit to eggs and smoothies, there was something for everyone.
For lunch, I dined by the pool, enjoying a mix of salads and burgers.
The menu had plenty of options, catering to different tastes.
One evening, I opted for room service and ordered a pizza, which was surprisingly delicious and arrived promptly.
The hotel also has several restaurants offering diverse cuisines, but after the wedding weekend, I preferred to relax and enjoy the comfort of my room.
The boardwalk near the hotel is lined with fantastic dining options if you feel like exploring outside.
Bars at the W Barcelona Hotel
The W Barcelona Hotel features several bars, each with its unique vibe.
The highlight is the rooftop bar, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea.
The cocktails were expertly crafted, and the atmosphere was relaxed, making it a perfect spot for an evening drink to watch the sunset.
The rooftop bar is a must-visit, whether you’re staying at the hotel or just looking for a chic spot to enjoy Barcelona’s nightlife.
Make the Most of Your Stay at the W Barcelona Hotel
Staying at the W Barcelona Hotel is an experience unlike any other.
From the luxurious rooms and vibrant pools to the relaxing spa and excellent dining options, this hotel truly has it all.
Despite a few minor inconveniences during check-in, my stay was memorable and enjoyable.
If you’re planning a vacation to Barcelona and want to indulge in luxury by the sea, the W Barcelona Hotel is an excellent choice.
Whether you’re here to relax, party, or explore the city, this iconic hotel offers the perfect base for your adventures.
