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The small, 18-room Hostería Grau feels like a cozy Catalan cabin set in the heart of the metropolis. Located at the intersection of two bustling pedestrian streets (Ramelleres and Tallers) in the center of the city, the Grau is an island of tranquility surrounded by constant action. For its cute, clean rooms and incredibly helpful staff, the rates are completely reasonable (at last visit just €80.00 a night for a double).
Offering single, double, and triple rooms with private and shared bathrooms, as well as six apartments in the same building for groups, families, and longer stays, the Grau has options for everyone. Some rooms have darling balconies that look onto the always entertaining calle Ramelleres, with its coffee shops and alternative music and clothing boutiques. Rooms without balconies are interior and are therefore much darker—though also quieter. We recommend going for the rooms with balconies and taking in the sights, sounds, and occasional sun.
As do most rooms in old buildings in this area, those in the Grau have low ceilings with exposed beams. All rooms have hand sinks, and those with private bathrooms feature newly-tiled showers, floors, and walls. Another plus is the communal lounge-loft, which overlooks the street and is a comfy place to read a book or have a snack beside a huge stone fireplace.
The Raval as a neighborhood is a mixed bag, with some areas rougher than others. The Grau is in a hip, alternative, and safe part of the barrio. Music lovers will delight in the many CD shops that line Calle Tallers just around the corner.
Hostería Grau is a good fit if you're looking for something safe and sound in an area with an edge.
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