Sacred Glimmer

Sacred Glimmer: Catalonia

A relaxing respite from Barcelona's hustle and bustle, this flat in Eixample has all the makings for a laid-back family getaway. It's surprisingly roomy, so there should be more than enough space to spread out and get comfortable, while the cosy design is unfussy and inviting – we're talking exposed brick walls, soft colours and tons of natural light.

Best of all, this sunny apartment has not one but two balconies where you can soak up the Spanish rays. The first, just off the main bedroom, is the perfect place to start the day off – all you need is a strong cup of coffee and some fresh fruit to nibble on for breakfast. The second, meanwhile, is accessed via the living area, making it ideal for sharing alfresco dinners and a laughter-packed conversation underneath the yellow-striped awning, watching as the sunset bathes the entire city in golden light.

And the location is hard to beat, especially if you're keen on a quieter neighbourhood close to all the action. The famous Gaudi masterpiece, Sagrada Familia, is only a ten-minute walk away, the UNESCO Heritage Site Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau is a six-minute stroll, and countless restaurants, sidewalk cafes and small shops line the avenues. Getting into the buzzing city centre is easy, with two metro lines and numerous busses heading towards Passeig de Gracia, Plaça de Catalunya and the beach in less than thirty minutes.

Home truths:
*Two guests will sleep on the sofa bed in the living area
*A cot, high chair and baby bath can be provided for little ones on request
*The host doesn't accept bookings with groups of young people under the age of 30
*Although the kitchen is well-stocked, there's only a combined oven/microwave and four-ring electric hob
*This flat is in an apartment building with a shared entrance – please respect the neighbours and keep noise to a minimum after 10pm
*If needed, the dining table can double as a laptop-friendly workspace