• Introduction
• Itinerary
• Dates/prices
• Booking enquiry

Introduction

This brand new property, opened in February 2005 encapsulates the excellent location, service and facilities befitting of a luxury spa hotel. Located 25 minutes from Barcelona in the tranquil and exclusive area of La Garriga, the Gran Hotel Balneario Blancafort enjoys a unique microclimate and breathtaking hillside setting. Originally a spa frequented by prominent members of the Catalan bourgeoisie since the nineteenth Century, the property has been renovated to a high standard with respect for the modernist tradition of the area exemplified by the inspiring architecture, sculpture and the Raspall Gallery within the hotel.

The area is renowned for its thermal springs which are naturally heated underground to a temperature of 15 degrees Centigrade and have a high mineral content beneficial in the treatment of a wide assortment of ailments and in promoting relaxation and wellbeing. The central theme of water is highly evident in the design of the hotel, as there are numerous fountains and rock pools, the highlight of which are the stunning walls of water cascading down windows and contemporary stainless steel installations with graceful elegance. The terracotta hues of the hotel façade are in keeping with the rugged landscape of the region of Catalonia, however the vibrancy of the exterior belies the calming neutrality within. The clean modern lines of the marble lobby hint at the experience of ultimate relaxation that awaits.

The Thermal Centre is a 3000 square metre expansion of the original spa, uniting classically-themed Roman architecture with inspiring Oriental minimalism. The thermal swimming pool reflects the azure sky through the glass roof above, and the intricate mosaic tiles and columns are reminiscent of ancient times. In contrast, the Oriental treatment rooms use elegant dark wood, bronze sculpture and simple bamboo and pampas grass plant displays to create an exotic, serene ambience inspired by the principals of Feng-Shui.

The hotel

Dining at the Gran Hotel Balneario Blancafort reveals a similar fusion of contrasts. D’Ors Gourmet offers haute cuisine and fine wines in elegant surroundings, while the Asian restaurant Iwaki boasts an exquisite variety of Eastern dishes served in an authentic and inviting environment. The signature Iwaki tapas provide an innovative slant on Spanish culinary tradition with Eastern flavours. Decorated in a palette of earthen tones the restaurant is illuminated by natural light from the large paned windows or by the beautiful hanging oriental lanterns. There is also a dietetic restaurant called Sotto l’Acqua for guests wishing to adopt a healthy eating approach to their Spa experience. This features Mediterranean cuisine in a contemporary setting with a neutral colour scheme punctuated with splashes of blue for dramatic effect. Guests are spoiled for choice in all three restaurants and are assured of attentive and professional service at all times.

The elegantly-appointed guestrooms are decorated in a range of soothing colour schemes, and feature beautiful wooden floors, marble bathrooms with and a range of technological amenities. Suites have a spacious living area and exude contemporary style through the choice of furnishings and design. Attention to detail is of paramount importance at the hotel, and the guestrooms are fitting testament to this. Ideal for a short break or a longer holiday, the Gran Hotel Balneario Blancafort combines the high standards of service and facilities of a modern hotel with the ancient therapeutic benefits of thermal bathing for a truly restorative spa experience.

The Thermal Centre

The Thermal Centre harnesses the medicinal properties of thermal waters in a stylish, minimalist setting. The Spa specialises in the treatment of dermatological conditions, stress, muscular and skeletal disorders, as the naturally-occurring minerals have sedative and analgesic properties.

The centre is divided into three zones. In the Templarium guests can relax in a traditional Roman bath environment, and in the Natatorium there are bubbling waters and streams to invigorate body and mind.

The Oriental Zone offers personalised Balinese, Japanese and Thai massages, and Chinese acupuncture, performed by expert therapists. Located within the Thermal Centre there is also a Beauty Centre offering anti-ageing and weight loss treatments using the exclusive Paola&Olivia natural skin care product range based on the hydrating and anti-oxidant properties of the orchid flower. Guests can also be pampered with the extravagant Perle skincare line which is based on extracts of pearl and soya. In a separate building there is a Medical Centre specialising in diet and nutrition, aesthetic medicine and health.

Activities

The peaceful village of La Garriga can be explored easily from the hotel, and is famous for its Modernist houses which are architecturally inspiring and unique to the region. For adventurous guests, the hotel organises helicopter flights over the Pyrenees, the Medes Islands, Barcelona and the surrounding coastline.

The nearby city of Barcelona is cosmopolitan and steeped in culture and history. The world-famous Sagrada Familia cathedral, Antoni Gaudi’s uncompleted architectural masterpiece, is unmissable. La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter and the stylish port area can be explored on foot, or viewed from the breathtaking cable car ascent of Mont Juic which overlooks the city.