Cotton House Hotel

Of all the hotels in the world that offer personalized and expert-level service, Cotton House would have to be considered for any top lists. This small boutique, housed in a former residence of a textile magnate that dates to 1879, combines classic design with modern art that gives off the feeling of a royal abode, vintage library, and chic museum all in one. A member of the Autograph Collection – Marriott’s finest brand – rewards members would do well to redeem their points here for as many nights as possible.

It’s all in the details here. The fastidious staff Google’s every guest to find out any personal information that they can surprise them with. Whether that’s a bottle of wine, a special birthday treat, or just an impossible-to-get restaurant reservation.

room

All the rooms vary in size, shape, and decoration, but you’ll typically find clean, white walls, leather padded headboards, and cotton themes throughout (of course 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and towels). Every room comes with complimentary Nespresso machines, free bottled water, and a variety of goodies that will surprise you during your stay (the little notes they leave you on the mirrors are especially cute).

You’ll notice a fabric swatch on the desks in the room filled with cotton patterns. If you like what you see, let the staff of the hotel know and they can make you a 100% cotton hand-made tailored shirt (250 Euros).

bathroom

The standard rooms have large showers with perfect heat controls, lit shaving mirrors, and chic black and white tile. Depending on room category, you’ll find separate bath tubs but all come with Ortigia bath products, plush take-home slippers, and one of the softest bath robes of your life - you know, because cotton.

lobby

The main lobby at the hotel’s entrance features original ceilings and doors from the late 19^th Century. But the true lobby is up the marble stairway to the first level where the original wood flooring guides guests to the uber-helpful concierge desk, the main hotel restaurant, and off-shoot rooms like the library – a perfect space for reading or working on rainy days.

Opposite the marble stairs is the elaborate spiral staircase which is actually suspended from the ceiling. It’s truly a work of art and your Instagram followers will ooh and ahh.

pool

Exclusive for guests, the rooftop pool is nearly long enough for laps and is open year-round. Green-striped day beds are ideal for sunbathing and guests can order drinks and snacks while gawking over the views of the city.

spa

There’s only a single treatment room here, but all types of services are available including massages and facials. The hotel also has a partnership with the opulent El Palace just down the block for their more elaborate spa services.

The concierge team goes by the name Gossypium, which translates to cotton flower in Latin. Not only can they get you other spa services, they’re able to book you any number of unique experiences in the city. Try out exclusive guided tours of Barcelona’s hidden spots or simply let the hotel know your preferences and they’ll tailor an experience just for you.

gym

The gym is tiny, but there are a couple of machines and free weights that can get you a full workout – as long as they’re not in use by literally one other person.

While the gym isn’t really something to write about, the hotel does offer free morning yoga and/or Pilates on the first-floor terrace three times a week.

dining

Named after a cotton-pressing machine, Batuar is the hotel’s exclusive restaurant serving a mix of Mediterranean delights for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On sunny days, the restaurant’s expansive patio is an ideal spot for bites at any time.

drinking

The bar is also at Batuar, and here, expert mixologists have created a signature list of extraordinary cocktails. You’ll typically receive at least one free drink ticket upon arrival, so make sure to use it here.