The Gran Hotel La Florida has a rocky past, begun as a luxurious hotel in 1924, turned into a military hospital during the Spanish Civil War, resurrected as a luxury hotel in the mid-20th century to entertain the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Rock Hudson, shuttered in 1979. But it was relaunched and revamped as a 70-room boutique hotel and spa in 2001, updating without sacrificing the historical charm. High on Mount Tibidabo, it presents sweeping views of city and sea only a 20-minute drive to city center (hotel provides shuttle service). The sanctuary spa by L'Occitane is full service with a water and wellness zone featuring a 37-metre inside/outside stainless steel swimming pool and sun beds on garden terraces.