You may land in Barcelona, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay there. Of course, you’ll want to explore the capital of Catalonia for a few days. The architecture, the museums, and the food—all set between the Serra de Collserola and the Mediterranean Sea—make it one of your favorite cities in the world. Since there’s so much to see, do, and eat, you rarely venture down the northeast coast of Spain. This time, it’s a priority.
Sitges has been on your wish list for years. Actually, it’s amazing that a beach lover like yourself hasn’t ventured there yet. The seaside town is just a 35-minute train ride southwest of Barcelona. It’s considered the Saint-Tropez of Spain due to the expensive properties that dot its coastline. It’s known for its liberal attitude (staunchly against Francoist Spain in the 1960s and strong support for gay rights today). Its art scene, festivals, and historic sites make it a relaxing weekend escape. Plus it’s home to 17 beaches and 300 days of sunshine each year. You might leave Barcelona quicker than you expected.
The center of Sitges is simply charming. The compact Old Town is a maze of cobbled streets and white houses with Juliet balconies. The 17th-century Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla, the icon of the city, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. It’s just steps from the Cau Ferrat Museum and the beginning of the Passeig Maritim, a palm-lined promenade that runs along the waterfront. Garraf Natural Park’s hiking trails and those golden-sand beaches aren’t very far away.
ME Sitges Terramar sits near the end of the Passeig Maritim. At first, the hotel’s location—two kilometers from the Old Town—seems isolated. Isolation is not a negative in this case. The tiered, ultra-modern hotel is across the street from Platja Terramar, a small beach that’s popular with families. That means late-night parties aren’t raging when you decide to call it an evening. If you decide to go out at all. Once you check out the hotel, you may want to stay in its chic little bubble.
You’ll feel at peace as soon as you’re handed a glass of Cava in ME Sitges Terramar’s lobby. The fruity sparkling wine matches the space’s brightly colored artwork and textured walls. Wicker columns and pastel-colored armchairs flow into the casual Oyster Bar. Fresh seafood is served here and in the sleek Beso Sitges restaurant. Both overlook the terrace and the beach. The ground-level pool is only a few steps away. While minimal rooms, a rooftop pool, and Radio Rooftop Bar’s panoramic views are upstairs. Spring can’t come soon enough.
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