The Intersection of Sky and Sea: A Luxurious Getaway in Barcelona

ALLIE MURRAY

Towering over the beauty of Barcelona with scenic views of the Mediterranean sea is Hotel Arts Barcelona, a luxurious hotel located in one of Barcelona’s two tallest buildings.

At the intersection of the city’s sky and sea, the hotel boasts seemingly endless luxuries to explore. Whether it be a delicious meal at Enoteca Barcelona from Paco Pérez, a Catalonian chef with two Michelin stars, or a trip to 43 The Spa, there is something for everyone.

FINE DINING

Hotel Arts Barcelona boasts a collection of eateries in addition to Enoteca at the helm of Chef Pérez.

Enoteca Paco Pérez has two Michelin stars and a menu full of Mediterranean flavours under Chef Pérez’s innovative vision. Savour the freshness of the sea fused with the products of the garden and the mountains. With a selection of fresh and local products, try a pairing from the sommelier, who has more than

700 references from the hotel s own winery.

Marina Coastal Food, which is open throughout the summer, has an eclectic menu that was influenced by coastal cuisine around the world. With exciting views across the Mediterranean, the restaurant is seated beside the pool, making for the perfect summer dining location. Similarly, guests can enjoy delicious cocktails at P41 Bar, tapas at the simply named Bites, and breakfast at Lokal.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

A short walk from some of Barcelona’s most notable attractions like La Sagrada

Familia and Gaudí’s Parc

Guell, Hotel Arts Barcelona is a must-visit for tourists in the city. While the accommodations are some of the best in Barcelona, a stop at the hotel proves to be worthwhile, with the spa and dining options available onsite.

The building towers the city, making it an attraction in itself with the skyline it creates along the coast of Barcelona.

ARTS AND CULTURE

An homage to its namesake, Hotel Arts Barcelona is home to a new initiative in partnership with WE COLLECT, Madrid’s leading art gallery, aimed at spotlighting Europe’s emerging artists while immersing guests in local art and culture.

With an exciting collection of more than 500 original artworks, the gallery opened its doors in July 2022 with installations from some of Spain s most notable artists. In 2023, the gallery will host exhibitions by Spanish artists Beatriz Dubois, Ramón Muñoz and Carla Fuentes.

RELAX AT THE SPA

Tucked away on the 42nd and 43rd floors of the hotel, 43 The Spa is a luxurious getaway with beautiful views of the Mediterranean. The spa boasts 3,000 square feet along with treatments like massages, facials, and a skincare line Natura Bissé.

In addition, the spa has separate relaxation areas for women and men and includes a fitness centre and fitness packages for guests.

SLEEP IN LUXURY

A luxurious trip to Barcelona wouldn’t be complete without a chic and comfortable place to sleep. The hotel boasts exciting suites and penthouses with incredible 360-degree views of Barcelona. The rooms are full of exciting amenities like terraces with panoramic sea and city views, butler services available in the penthouse, in-room art exhibitions courtesy of WE COLLECT, and so much more. Barcelona is a booming city that is calling for adventurers to explore the luxury, history, and excitement that awaits.

Step Back in Time in Nacogdoches, Texas

Nacogdoches, known as the Oldest Town in Texas, features brick streets and a photo-worthy backdrop of local businesses on the original streets of the El Camino Real.

Designated “The Garden Capital of Texas,” Nacogdoches is home to the most extensive azalea garden in the state. The Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden boasts one of the most diverse azalea collections in the United States. The Ruby Mize Azalea Garden in Nacogdoches is known for having more than 550 varieties of azaleas and trails for flora lovers of all ages and abilities. Encompassing eight forested acres along the historic Lanana Creek on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University, the impressionisticstyle garden features over 7,000 evergreen and native azaleas accented with vibrant Japanese maples, camellias and other unique collections.

The gardens bring visitors from all over the world, but they stay for the unique charm that Nacogdoches has to offer. From shopping and dining to exploring the historic roots of the Oldest Town in Texas, there is something for everyone. Build your perfect itinerary using the “Visit Nac!” app and add fun activities like a Sip & Stroll or tour of the gardens. Take a walking tour of the statues, historic sites and oldest buildings, and grab lunch at the 1st City Cafe inside the landmark Fredonia Hotel, recently renovated and restored to a mid-century modern masterpiece. Walk up and down Main Street and shop ‘til you drop at the local boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries. Head down Mound Street to the Fortney Home, a gorgeous Victorian Home filled to the brim with antiques and eclectic collectibles. Eat and drink like a local at one of Nacogdoches’ many libation locations like Front Porch Distillery, Fredonia Brewery, Red House Winery and Naca Valley Vineyard, all of which feature a wide array of food trucks and live music weekly.

Nacogdoches is a wonderful place to visit all year, but time your trip during annual events like the Texas Blueberry Festival on the second Saturday in June or the Nine Flags Lighted Christmas Parade & Festival on the first Saturday in December to get the full experience.

The Texas Blueberry Festival is our biggest event of the year, where 20,000 people fill Downtown Nacogdoches with blueberry-themed food, crafts, goods and more. Visitors travel from all over Texas and beyond to enjoy the family-centred fun the festival brings. Make it a weekend trip to enjoy the free Bluegrass Concert in Festival Park the night before.

The Nine Flags Festival is a magical day of shopping, smalltown charm and Christmas cheer. Experience the tradition of celebrating the Nine Flags that flew over the oldest town in Texas. Shop Nacogdoches’ unique downtown businesses and vendors around the plaza. Enjoy food truck fare, hot cocoa and treats while taking in the views of the lighted parade on the historic brick streets.

No matter what time of the year you visit, your trip to Nacogdoches will be one to remember. If restoration and relaxation are what you’re looking for, we have a Nac for that.

Learn more at visitnacogdoches.org