Reclaimed Dream

Reclaimed Dream: Catalonia

In a traditional building, recently modernised with eco-conscious touches, this character apartment is set between the El Born and Eixample neighbourhoods. With sustainability in mind, the hosts have hand-picked recycled wood for the quirky kitchen cabinets, along with things like vintage glasses and upcycled armchairs. The mini-bar with local eco soaps, toothbrushes, beers, wine and juices is a nice touch and there's nothing like stepping out onto your little balcony, glass in hand, and taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant area. Bedrooms are calm and quiet, and all the more beautiful thanks to their Catalan tiled floors, high ceilings and tall windows. But our favourite thing about this charming place is the hosts, who live in an apartment on the top floor and are welcoming and knowledgeable. They'll look after your bags before or after checkout, welcome you with a local breakfast and even allow you to use their beautiful roof terrace from time to time – where you can see across the city to the sea.

Home truths:
*There's a limited amount of storage so it may not be suitable for longer stays
*The roof terrace is not part of the apartment but can be available to guests during working hours – ask the hosts for more details

*Don't go planning any elaborate meals in – there's no oven but the home is surrounded by many great options for eating out

*You'll need to climb seven steps to reach the building's entrance and lift

*The two singles you see in the photos can be arranged as a king bed – let the hosts know which you would prefer

*There's laptop-friendly workspace here
*A travel cot and high chair are available if you're bringing little ones
*You'll spot there's no TV here – board games are available to borrow from the office