Hotel Bagués, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World

Not having been in Barcelona for quite some time and not knowing this particular hotel (or any other Derby Hotel), we did a lot of research and read a ton of TripAdvisor and other reviews before opting to stay here for three days in late June 2023. Sadly, we were sorely let down by our decision. Without knowing what it takes to gain a five-star rating in Barcelona, the rating system gives this hotel no justice. Almost everything about this hotel was disappointing. Firstly, whilst external noise was not an issue, the noise internally was an acoustical engineer's (and guest’s) worst nightmare -- all surfaces within the hotel are hard, creating an excessive amount of noise at all hours. Despite the fact that we stayed in a "superior" room, it in no way exceeded expectations. It was cramped, poorly maintained, and housekeeping did not restock the supposedly "free" mini-bar items. Towels and bathrobes were so worn, scratchy, and frayed, that it seemed they had been in constant use for the last two decades. The list of disappointments does not stop there. Staff members lackadaisically approach their roles and basic requests (e.g., for extra towels/hangers or fresh milk for coffee) were poked away. The hotel’s "assistance" with activities outside the hotel was similarly unreliable. They made a dinner reservation for us at a restaurant that has two locations, and directed us to the wrong one, causing us to spend an additional 30 minutes to reach the correct destination, which was at a considerably greater distance from the hotel. After sending an email to the hotel to inform them of the error, we received no acknowledgment. When returning to the hotel, a perfunctory greeting was all we received. Each of these shortcomings on their own were relatively minor, yet the cumulative effect was terrible. There were sadly several more dissatisfying moments that overshadowed what the hotel managed to get right. This definitely wasn't a five-star experience. With so many great hotels to choose from in Barcelona, we would not once again put our trust in this particular hotel (or any other Derby hotel).

I have to say this was probably the worst service I've ever had ?. We paid around 250€/night ? for a room with a city view but when we arrived, the room had no city view and barely any daylight ☹️. When calling the reception, they said they didn't have any other rooms ?‍♀️. After a lot of arguing, we managed to get a different room ?‍♀️, but it still didn't have the city view we had paid for. The way the staff handled the situation was unacceptable for a five star hotel ?‍♀️. It seemed like they weren't able to handle a simple situation, not even coming us with an excuse or something ?‍♀️. I love Barcelona, but next time I'll definitely choose another hotel ?‍♀️. Even when I said I was unhappy with the stay at the check-out, I got no excuse or compensation ?‍♀️.?

This ? truly looked amazing in photos, but when I arrived in room number 103 there was no window - no daylight anywhere! ? I let my pupper have the room with the window, and figured a 5✨ hotel should have much more features than that. To top it off, there wasn't any service near the pool during the evening hours. ? Maybe I'll choose a different one next time. ?

On our honeymoon, the staff was welcoming and helpful. The hotel rooms were immaculate and comfortable. The destination was ideal, with numerous shopping and dining options close by. There was also a lovely pool on the rooftop with stunning views.

This particular lodging is perfect for a stay in a bustling city center. The hotel is small and warmly decorated, the staff are incredibly attentive and the location is one of the most happening parts of town. The rooms are equipped with excellent soundproofing, so even when there are many people in the surrounding area, guests can remain undisturbed.