The hotel was exactly as expected - good standard, clean and ideally situated in an upmarket neighbourhood away from the crowds but close enough to public transport to allow us to move effortlessly around the city. We found the metro cheap, efficient and easy - Diagonal being the closest to the hotel. Reception staff were friendly and helpful when approached but seemed reluctant to look up from their computers to pass the time of day - a greeting and a smile makes a big difference. The rooms were kept spotless with clean sheets and towels every day - full marks to the cleaning staff. We didn't eat breakfast at the hotel because of the comments made in previous reviews - there are lots of lovely cafes within easy walking distance at half the price. Barcelona is an expensive place to visit - to save money take the bus to and from the airport - only 4euros compared to 25euros by taxi.

We stayed at this hotel for two days after our cruise. Great convient location. Nice rooms. The hotel is very clean and quiet. We could not ask for a better place to stay. The hotel staff was polite and eager to assist. We were very pleased and impressed with the accomendations and our stay in Barcelona-what a beautiful city!!!

Stayed for 2 nights at the Balmoral for the Barcelona - Celtic game in March 2008. Hotel was ideal - pretty good location, handy for transport, spotless rooms. Didn't eat or drinnk in the hotel at all so can't comment on that. Very competitive rate considering how busy the city was.

We were booked in by a promoter for two nights. The hotel was pleasant and the staff seemed nice enough. The first morning we went to breakfast..There was no sign to say that it was a buffet costing Euro15, and there was no alternative menu, so I assumed that the breakfast was included in the price of the room. I had a cup of tea. The 2nd morning I had a cup of tea and a slice of toast. When we went to check out we found that breakfast was not included and so my two cups of tea and slice of toast cost the promoter Euro 30. I tried to argue the point with the desk manager, but he was extremely rude and unhelpful, as was the other man on the desk. In the end we were going to be late for our flight home and had to drop the matter. I have stayed in hotels all over the world and have never come across such rudeness. Neither have I ever known any hotel not make it clear, or offer an alternative menu, when breakfast is not included in the price of the room.