Barcelona, Day 1: Park Güell
July 15, 2008
Hill from Lesseps station to Parc Guell
I got to Barcelona in the early afternoon and headed over to the train station. I bought a T-10 pass for the metro (definitely worth it) and took the train into the city. My first move was to check into the Chic and Basic Tallers. I was immediately impressed with the hotel, where I was shown to my adorable, comfortable room and told to feel free to come back down and make myself an afternoon snack.
I decided my first excursion would be to Park Güell, so off I went on the green line to the Lesseps station. My guidebook had suggested this route; though it never mentioned the hill I had to hike up to get to the park. It is only approximately 200m, but it directly uphill, with only portions of it with stairs or escalators.
Parc Güell
Honestly, I had to stop halfway up the hill to buy a bottle of water. I later found out that there is a bus that runs from Plaza Catalunya to the entrance of the park. But, I digress.
The park was beyond my expectations. I think the best descriptor is the word “enchanting”. The terraced plaza area was packed full of people reclining on the iconic serpentine mosaic benches. I was breathless while wandering the columns below the terrace, marveling at the uniqueness of each mosaic. The front entrance’s whimsical appearance gave the area a welcoming and fun atmosphere. My favorite part was probably the arched pathways. There was just something about the shapes and shadowing that was utterly sensual and romantic.
I also visited the Gaudi museum in the park. (see review)
Needless, to say, I went back to my hotel completely exhausted. Luckily, I had a fantastic, comfy bed to fall into.
Hill from Lesseps station to Par
…
Parc Güell
Parc Güell
view from Parc Güell
Parc Güell
Parc Güell
Parc Güell
Parc Güell
mosaics at Parc Güell
Parc Güell
Parc Güell
Parc Güell
Parc Güell
Interesting addition to a Barcelona Gaudí tour
The Casa Museu Gaudí is located inside the Parc Guell grounds, and was Gaudí’s home for 20 years. The museum contains mostly furniture designed by the artist and a few of his drawings and inspirations. There are also a few pieces designed by some of Gaudí’s contemporaries. I am not exactly sure this is an absolutely necessary addition to a Barcelona itinerary, but I think it is worth the trip for the Gaudí fan and anyone interested in seeing his lesser known interior designs.
The entrance fee is 5 Euros, which seems a bit high for what is offered, but there is a combination ticket that allows entrance to La Sagrada Família.
Unique and comfortable lodging in prime Barcelona location
I cannot possibly say enough good things about the Chic and Basic Tallers Hostal. The rooms are modern and stylish with clean design. The area is small but very sufficient, containing enough room for the bed and a bathroom area (sliding partition containing shower stall and toilet area). The rooms are wired with a flat screen TV, WiFi, and a MP3 player hookup or custom DJ set on the stereo. The beds are extremely comfortable and the rooms are very clean. The uniqueness of the hostal lies in its own take on the “bed and breakfast” concept. In the lobby area, there is a kitchenette for your use 24hrs a day, which is always clean and stocked with fruit, juice, coffee, bread, milk, ham, cheese, cookies, and water. Patrons are encouraged to eat whenever they like and even pack a sandwich to take with them and are only asked to clean up after themselves. The lobby area also has a computer with internet access, area information, and an excellent desk staff (fluent in English). Additionally, it is located one block from the Universitat metro stop (L1 and L2 lines) and about 4 blocks from Las Ramblas near the Placa de Catalunya end. While the area is considered a haven for pickpockets, I had no troubles there even when alone.
NOTE: the hostal is located on the 2nd and 3rd floors of a small apartment building, and the entrance is relatively unmarked (look for building number). There is a buzzer located near the door for contacting the staff, as the doors are locked during most hours.
bathroom partition, Chic and Bas
…
single room, Chic and Basic Tallers
