Thursday, January 03, 2013

The most unique bars in Barcelona by guest blogger Harriet Freeman




Bars form a large piece of Barcelona culture, so it makes sense that when you visit the city you should visit a few. Many interesting bars are largely traditional where you can buy a drink and some tapas and can usually be found outside of touristy areas. However, for those looking for something a little different; here are some of the most original bars in Barcelona.

Ice Bar Barcelona: This bar is a few years old now and has built up quite a reputation in that time. In this establishment, pretty much everything is ice, from the stools to the cup you drink from. Don't worry about getting cold here though because you are provided with coats, gloves, and everything you need to stay warm. You'll also find some great ice sculptures of symbolic sites from around Barcelona, like La Sagrada Familia. There is a downside though… The prices. It's not all bad though because it's right by the beach. If you've planned your summer trip to Barcelona then its a great place to sunbathe and cool down in afterwards (or vice versa).

El Bosc de les Fades: Time was that this place used to be a well kept secret. Not so much anymore, but don't let that put you off, because you should definitely visit at least once. Located right by the wax museum just off Las Ramblas, this bar will transport you into the world of fairy tales. It is beautifully themed in the form of an enchanted forest and is an absolutely bewildering located to sit down with some friends and chill with a drink. Why mention earlier that it's not a well kept secret anymore? Well, with fame came a price hike, so maybe you should only go once to check it out.

Sincopa: This bar was opened by two french people and it's very unique for a few reasons. The first reason is that there are no tables (though there are several stools around the bar). The decor is also incredibly original to the point that the ceiling is a topsy-turvy  concert stage. The drinks are also more reasonably priced than the last two bars and it's a great place to socialise. You can find it on Calle AvinyĆ³, 35.

Pipa Club: Located in the former studio of the painter Pere Pruna, it's a locale in which various celebrities pass through from time to time. It's a unique space for conversing and social gatherings where you can pretty much enjoy a drink  and feel as if you where at home thanks to the very lovely decor with a focus on Sherlock Holmes and pipe memorabilia, as well as the live piano music. It's a great atmosphere and is sort of a "hidden gem", though it gets pretty crowded with locals and young travelers on the weekends. Again with the prices though, at €4 for a beer or even a cola, you might want to consider making it a one off.

Harriet Freeman is a specialist on northern Spain and Barcelona, and writes on behalf of OK Apartment Barcelona, specialists in cheap accommodation in Barcelona.

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