Bamboo Balance

Bamboo Balance: Catalonia

There's nothing average about this stylish apartment, just a fifteen-minute walk from the Sagrada Familia and aimed at longer stays. Set in a traditional period building, it's got all the character features you could hope for – the high, vaulted ceilings and tall French doors – along with a stunning terrace that adds valuable outdoor living space. And what a space it is. Typically backing onto other buildings, it's been cleverly screened with bamboo for privacy. And, like the rest of the apartment, there's a distinctly Japanese feel to the decor here. The host has taken calming elements of feng shui and created an outdoor lounge complete with dining table, sofa area and sun lounger – all underneath a timber pergola. Step inside the flat and you'll find a comfortable living room, a smart kitchen with everything you'll need, two relaxing bedrooms and a modern bathroom. An extra surprise comes in the form of a separate office – ideal if you're going to be working during your long stay.

Home truths:
*The terrace is accessed via the living room and the main bedroom
*The bed in the second bedroom is pushed up against a wall so it may be better suited to a single guest
*You'll have a shared entrance to the building
*As this home is in one of Barcelona’s most popular areas, some city and street noise is to be expected – light sleepers may want to pack earplugs just in case
*There is only air conditioning in some rooms