It’s all about the view at these Barcelona hotel rooftops

Skybar at Grand Central Hotel

Situated between the Gothic quarter and El Born, Grand Central Hotel is ideally located for all of Barcelona’s main draws, but it is the hotel’s own attractions that make it sing. The rooftop SkyBar is revered by guests and locals alike, who flock here for the signature concoctions created by mixologist Manel Vehí, served poolside amongst sun canopies and longue seating. Riffs on classics — such as the mojito, which includes an unconventional but welcomed dash of egg white — are what make this spot stand out, and are best taken in facing the sea; a vantage point that also gives way to spectacular sunset views.

Via Laietana 30, T 34.93 295 79 00, www.grandhotelcentral.com

La Isabela at H1898

La Ramblas gets a bad rap and for many justifiable reasons. The presence of H1898 may well redeem all of these. Inside an 1881 building that was once the General Philippines Tobacco Company now stands a hotel and spa which injects some much needed elegance onto the tourist drag. Like the rest of the hotel, the 7th-floor rooftop bar La Isabela takes its cues from the property’s colonial beginnings and is named after a Filipino island. Here, amongst an outdoor pool and calm lounge area, visitors are a world away from the bustle below, with relaxation aided by a fun selection of drinks and tapas made with ingredients from La Boquería.

La Rambla, 109, T 34.935 529 552, www.hotel1898.com

Terraces and swimming pools at Hotel Arts

Set away from the city’s central boulevards and holding an enviable position between the beach and the Port Olímpic marina, Hotel Arts has been reigning supreme in this neck of the woods for nearly 25 years. Built to accommodate the crowds visiting the city for the 1992 Olympics, the 500-room glass and steel structure was designed by Bruce Graham and has since become an iconic marker in Barcelona’s dramatic cityscape. Given its lofty heights — 44 storeys to be exact — it’s only fitting that the property is now home to an outdoor infinity pool and lounge, where cocktails, views and music combine to great effect.

Marina 19-21, T 34.932 211 000, www.hotelartsbarcelona.com

Restaurant and cocktail bar at Hotel Duquesa de Cardona

In a city where rooftop attractions literally jostle for attention, there’s something rather comforting and unassuming about the Hotel Duquesa de Cardona. That’s not to say this is a modest affair. Perched atop a 16th-century building that was once home to nobility and a refuge for kings, is an impressively expansive (and modern) sun terrace with panoramic views. By day, this is the spot for those in the know, who come here for cooling dips in the pool and a chance to spot the city’s landmarks. By night, teak flooring, flickering candles and well-executed gin tonics set a sophisticated tone that has had loyal fans coming back for years.

Passeig Colom 12, T 34.932 689 090, www.hduquesadecardona.com

La Dolce Vitae at Majestic Hotel & Spa

The 10th floor of the Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona presents what might be Barcelona’s most luxe spot from which to instigate a game of ‘I Spy’. From Montjuïc Mountain to Casa Batlló to the Olympic Port towers, a host of the city’s landmarks can be taken in – and most importantly, discerned – from the hotel’s La Dolce Vitae rooftop bar. When every sight has been spotted, murals by artist Philip Stanton offer an equally mesmerising backdrop and are a perfect match for a DJ-selected soundtrack, which spans bossa nova, jazz, soul and disco. Dishes by revered chef Nandu Jubany add another layer of flavour.

Passeig de Gràcia 68, T +34 93 488 1717, www.hotelmajestic.es